Injuries catch up to Preds...

No Arnott… no Legwand… no Erat… no Jones… it finally caught up. Nashville looked a step (or two) slow in Columbus tonight as they failed to generate consistent offensive pressure. Pekka Rinne did all he could to help the Preds get the 2 points, but his bad rebound to Raffi Torres was ultimately the deciding factor. The 2-1 loss keeps them in 7th, but by the end of tonight’s games, could put them in 8th with a Ducks win at the Oilers.

A play I want to mention here is when J.P. Dumont was nailed into the boards by Jiri Novotny. I think all Preds fans were scared that the injuries were piling up even more with that, but luckily Dumont came back a few minutes later. On Novotny’s side of this, it was dirty IMO. I don’t care if you disagree with me… it was dirty. Dumont’s numbers were facing Novotny, and he put him into the boards pretty hard. I didn’t like that play at all, and hope Novotny gets fined for it.

An injury that did occur, though, was an upper-body injury to Antti Pihlstrom. If he’s out for this weekend, look for Nick Spaling to be called up from Milwaukee. Barry Trotz & company will need to regroup and come up with points in Chicago on Friday, and then beat Columbus on Saturday… because the last thing this team needs is that usual post-Detroit-win slump.

Playoffs Countdown

We are now just 15 days away from the greatest spectacle in sports!!!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Another day at the races

In these last couple weeks, I’m going to bring you extensive coverage on the playoff races in both conferences. Today, we’ll look at the constantly-changing picture of the Western Conference bubble!

Columbus Blue Jackets
Where they stand:
6th, 86 pts, 6 GR

Remaining Schedule:
3/31 vs. Nashville
4/4 @ Nashville
4/5 vs. Chicago
4/8 @ Chicago
4/10 @ St. Louis
4/11 vs. Minnesota

Projected Wins: vs. CHI, @ STL, vs. MIN
Projected Losses: vs. NSH, @ NSH (OT), @ CHI (OT)
Projected Finish: 3-1-2… 6th in West (94 points)
---
Nashville Predators
Where they stand:
7th, 84 pts, 6 GR

Remaining Schedule:
3/31 @ Columbus
4/3 @ Chicago
4/4 vs. Columbus
4/7 vs. Chicago
4/9 @ Detroit
4/10 @ Minnesota

Projected Wins: @ CBJ, vs. CBJ, vs. CHI, @ MIN
Projected Losses: @ CHI, @ DET
Projected Finish: 4-2… 7th in West (92 points)
---
St. Louis Blues
Where they stand:
8th, 83 pts, 6 GR

Remaining Schedule:
4/1 @ Chicago
4/2 @ Detroit
4/4 @ Dallas
4/7 @ Phoenix
4/10 vs. Columbus
4/12 @ Colorado

Projected Wins: @ DAL, @ PHX, @ COL
Projected Losses: @ CHI, @ DET, vs. CBJ (OT)
Projected Finish: 3-2-1… 9th in West (90 points – 40 W)
---
Anaheim Ducks
Where they stand:
9th, 82 pts, 6 GR

Remaining Schedule:
3/31 @ Edmonton
4/2 @ Vancouver
4/4 @ San Jose
4/5 vs. San Jose
4/10 vs. Dallas
4/11 @ Phoenix

Projected Wins: @ EDM, vs. SJ, vs. DAL
Projected Losses: @ VAN, @ SJ
Projected Finish: 4-2… 8th in West (90 points – 42 W)
---
Edmonton Oilers
Where they stand:
10th, 81 pts, 6 GR

Remaining Schedule:
3/31 vs. Anaheim
4/2 vs. San Jose
4/4 vs. Vancouver
4/7 vs. Los Angeles
4/10 vs. Calgary
4/11 @ Calgary

Projected Wins: vs. VAN, vs. LA, vs. CGY
Projected Losses: vs. ANA (OT), vs. SJ, @ CGY
Projected Finish: 3-2-1… 10th in West (88 points)
---
Minnesota Wild
Where they stand:
11th, 80 pts, 6 GR

Remaining Schedule:
3/31 vs. Vancouver
4/3 vs. Calgary
4/5 @ Detroit
4/7 vs. Dallas
4/10 vs. Nashville
4/11 @ Columbus

Projected Wins: vs. CGY, vs. DAL
Projected Losses: vs. VAN (OT), @ DET, vs. NSH, vs. CBJ
Projected Finish: 2-3-1… 11th in West (85 points)

If the season ended today...

… These would be my predictions

EASTERN CONFERENCE
1) Bruins over 8) Canadiens in 6
2) Capitals over 7) Rangers in 7
3) Devils over 6) Penguins in 6
4) Flyers over 5) Hurricanes in 5

1) Bruins over 4) Flyers in 6
3) Devils over 2) Capitals in 5

1) Bruins over 3) Devils in 7

WESTERN CONFERENCE
1) Sharks over 8) Blues in 5
7) Predators over 2) Red Wings in 6
6) Blue Jackets over 3) Flames in 7
5) Canucks over 4) Blackhawks in 5

1) Sharks over 7) Predators in 6
5) Canucks over 6) Blue Jackets in 6

5) Canucks over 1) Sharks in 6

STANLEY CUP FINALS
Bruins over Canucks in 7
Conn Smythe: Zdeno Chara

Morning Skate Xtra: Tuesday, 3/31

Tonight’s Slate:
Lightning @ Bruins, 7:00 ET
Predators @ Blue Jackets, 7:00
Blackhawks @ Canadiens, 7:30
Senators @ Panthers, 7:30
Canucks @ Wild, 8:00
Ducks @ Oilers, 9:30
Stars @ Kings, 10:30

Games of the Night:
Tampa Bay Lightning (24-35-17) @ Boston Bruins (48-17-10)
7:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Players to watch:
TB- Steven Stamkos
BOS- Michael Ryder

Projected Goaltenders:
TB- Karri Ramo (08-09 stats: 4-8-6, 3.52 GAA)
BOS- Tim Thomas (08-09 stats: 32-11-7, 2.13 GAA)

Season Series: 2-1 Bruins

Game Thoughts:
Boston is looking to extend their lead on WSH & NJ for the East lead, and I’ll think they’ll beat the Lightning to do so.

Prediction: Bruins 5, Lightning 2
--
Nashville Predators (38-30-8) @ Columbus Blue Jackets (39-29-8)
7:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Players to watch:
NSH- Shea Weber
CBJ- Fedor Tyutin

Projected Goaltenders:
NSH- Pekka Rinne (08-09 stats: 27-11-4, 2.26 GAA)
CBJ- Steve Mason (08-09 stats: 31-18-5, 2.24 GAA)

Season Series: Tied 2-2

Game Thoughts:
Columbus lost 2 games to the Blues this weekend… the Preds won twice in dramatic fashion. The Preds, with a win, can take the upper hand on the 6th seed with a regulation win. Keep this in mind… the Jackets have beaten the Preds twice at Nationwide Arena this year. Nashville usually dominates Columbus there. I like the Preds, though shorthanded.

Prediction: Predators 3, Blue Jackets 2
--
Chicago Blackhawks (40-23-11) @ Montreal Canadiens (38-27-10)
7:30 ET… TV: VERSUS, TSN

Players to watch:
CHI- Martin Havlat
MTL- Alexei Kovalev

Projected Goaltenders:
CHI- Nikolai Khabibulin (08-09 stats: 20-8-6, 2.54 GAA)
MTL- Carey Price (08-09 stats: 22-14-9, 2.81 GAA)

Season Series: 1st Meeting

Game Thoughts:
I just think Montreal is going to make it hard on themselves to make the playoffs. This game is virtually a toss-up, and I have a gut feeling that Chicago will put out the win.

Prediction: Blackhawks 5, Canadiens 4 (OT)
--
Ottawa Senators (33-32-10) @ Florida Panthers (37-28-11)
7:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Players to watch:
OTT- Daniel Alfredsson
FLA- David Booth

Projected Goaltenders:
OTT- Brian Elliott (08-09 stats: 16-6-3, 2.64 GAA)
FLA- Tomas Vokoun (08-09 stats: 23-22-6, 2.49 GAA)

Season Series: 2-1 Panthers

Game Thoughts:
The Panthers must win this game for their playoff push. Ottawa is playing well, but I believe Vokoun & company will get the much-needed 2 points.

Prediction: Panthers 4, Senators 3
--
Vancouver Canucks (41-25-9) @ Minnesota Wild (36-32-8)
8:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Players to watch:
VAN- The Sedins
MIN- Marian Gaborik

Projected Goaltenders:
VAN- Roberto Luongo (08-09 stats: 29-11-6, 2.38 GAA)
MIN- Niklas Backstrom (08-09 stats: 34-23-7, 2.36 GAA)

Season Series: 4-1 Canucks

Game Thoughts:
The Canucks can claim the division lead tonight with a win… Minnesota needs a win here to keep up with the others ahead of them. Vancouver won 4-0 in Chicago the other night, and I expect ‘em to come away victorious in a shootout.

Prediction: Canucks 2, Wild 1 (SO)
--
Anaheim Ducks (38-32-6) @ Edmonton Oilers (36-31-9)
9:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Players to watch:
ANA- Teemu Selanne
EDM- Ales Kotalik

Projected Goaltenders:
ANA- Jean-Sebastien Giguere (08-09 stats: 19-18-5, 3.13 GAA)
EDM- Dwayne Roloson (08-09 stats: 27-21-9, 2.77 GAA)

Season Series: 2-1 Oilers

Game Thoughts:
Last week, Edmonton went to Anaheim and won 5-3. Tonight, I expect the Ducks to return the favor. The Oilers have been terribly inconsistent at home this year, and that may continue tonight. Go with the Ducks in OT…

Prediction: Ducks 4, Oilers 3 (OT)
--
Dallas Stars (33-33-10) @ Los Angeles Kings (31-33-11)
10:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Players to watch:
DAL- Loui Eriksson
LA- Anze Kopitar

Projected Goaltenders:
DAL- Marty Turco (08-09 stats: 32-30-9, 2.84 GAA)
LA- Jon Quick (08-09 stats: 18-15-2, 2.58 GAA)

Season Series: 4-1 Kings

Game Thoughts:
Los Angeles has had Dallas’ number this year, and will be playing at home finally. I like the Kings to dump the Stars tonight.

Prediction: Kings 3, Stars 2

Playoffs Countdown

We are now just 16 days away from the greatest spectacle in sports!!!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Another day at the races

In these last couple weeks, I’m going to bring you extensive coverage on the playoff races in both conferences. Today, we’ll look at the tight battle for the Northwest Division!

Calgary Flames
Where they stand:
1st, 92 pts, 7 GR

Remaining Schedule:
3/30 vs. San Jose
4/2 @ Dallas
4/3 @ Minnesota
4/6 vs. Los Angeles
4/7 @ Vancouver
4/10 @ Edmonton
4/11 vs. Edmonton

Projected Wins: vs. SJ, @ DAL, vs. LA, vs. EDM
Projected Losses: @ MIN, @ VAN, @ EDM (OT)
Projected Finish: 4-2-1… 2nd in Northwest (101 points)
---
Vancouver Canucks
Where they stand:
2nd, 91 pts, 7 GR

Remaining Schedule:
3/31 @ Minnesota
4/2 vs. Anaheim
4/4 @ Edmonton
4/5 vs. Colorado
4/7 vs. Calgary
4/9 vs. Los Angeles
4/11 @ Colorado

Projected Wins: @ MIN, vs. ANA, vs. COL, vs. CGY, vs. LA
Projected Losses: @ EDM (OT), @ COL (OT)
Projected Finish: 5-0-2… 1st in Northwest (103 points)

The Week Ahead

Top 5 games I’m looking forward to:
1. Sharks @ Flames (Monday)
2. Devils @ Penguins (Wednesday)
3. Penguins @ Hurricanes (Saturday)
4. Predators @ Blue Jackets (Tuesday)
5. Canucks @ Oilers (Saturday)

Teams with the most on the line:
1. Edmonton Oilers
This is the biggest week of the year for the Oil. They’ve lost 4 of 5, and MacTavish’s bunch will host the Ducks, Sharks, and Canucks. Their playoff hopes will either get dealt a huge blow, or they’ll gain some momentum.
2. Florida Panthers
This is the time for the people of South Florida to dish out the mula to help this team get to the postseason. 3 big home games this week… they get the sizzling Sens and Thrashers before a big duel with the Pens on Sunday. Make or break week for the Cardiac ‘Cats!

National TV Schedule (US):
Tonight-
Devils @ Rangers… VERSUS
Stars @ Coyotes… VERSUS
Tuesday-
Blackhawks @ Canadiens… VERSUS
Wednesday-
Flyers @ Maple Leafs… NHL Network
Saturday-
Canadiens @ Maple Leafs … NHL Network
Canucks @ Oilers… NHL Network
Sunday-
Wild @ Red Wings… NBC

Power Rankings (3/30)

1. San Jose Sharks (49-15-11)
Last Week: #2
Last 10: 6-3-1
The Sharks rise up to this spot by virtue of the struggles of Detroit & New Jersey. San Jose may have a tough time clinching that #1 seed.

2. Vancouver Canucks (41-25-9)
Last Week: #4
Last 10: 7-2-1
IMO, this is the most dangerous team for the postseason if they can keep this up. Luongo has been dynamite, including Sunday’s shutout of Chicago.

3. Boston Bruins (48-17-10)
Last Week: #5
Last 10: 6-3-1
It’s safe to say that Boston is back as they picked up 2 contrasting victories this weekend. Tim Thomas likely sealed up the Vezina with his 45-save effort in Philly.

4. Detroit Red Wings (49-18-9)
Last Week: #1
Last 10: 6-3-1
Detroit needed a late 3rd period rally in Edmonton to avoid a 0-4 week. These Wings are looking vulnerable for the playoffs!

5. Pittsburgh Penguins (41-27-8)
Last Week: #6
Last 10: 7-1-2
The Pens are 5-1-2 on their long home-stand, which ends Wednesday vs. the Devils. It looks like a Flyers/Pens 1st round matchup is going to happen.

6. New Jersey Devils (47-24-4)
Last Week: #3
Last 10: 5-4-1
Jersey has lost 4 in a row, and 5 of 6. The top line of Zajac/Langenbrunner/Parise needs to get hot again in these next 2 weeks.

7. Washington Capitals (46-23-7)
Last Week: #9
Last 10: 6-2-2
The Caps didn’t have the best week, but they’re currently 2nd in the East, and have a fairly easy schedule to end the season.

8. Carolina Hurricanes (42-28-7)
Last Week: #10
Last 10: 7-1-2
If I’m another East team, I don’t want to face this team in the playoffs. Cam Ward is getting hot at the right time, and the team is 9-1-2 since the re-addition of Erik Cole.

9. Columbus Blue Jackets (39-29-8)
Last Week: #8
Last 10: 6-2-2
Aside from the blowout win vs. Calgary, the Jackets went 0-1-2, and were swept in a key home-and-home with the Blues. Now, that 6th seed isn’t looking so certain.

10. Philadelphia Flyers (41-24-10)
Last Week: #7
Last 10: 5-5
I don’t know what to think of this club right now. They’ve been inconsistent this month, and needed a late rally to win at the Isles. A return trip to the conference finals seems more and more unlikely.

11. Calgary Flames (43-26-6)
Last Week: #11
Last 10: 4-6
The Flames bookended the week with 2 nice home wins over Detroit & Minnesota. But being shut out twice on the road keeps that seed of doubt in my mind.

12. Nashville Predators (38-30-8)
Last Week: #15
Last 10: 5-1-4
The wounded Preds went 3-0-1 this week with key injuries to Arnott & Legwand. And they lost another forward yesterday, as Erat suffered a fractured leg. But this team keeps finding ways to win games, and a hot Rinne could equal a long-waited playoff run.

13. New York Rangers (39-28-9)
Last Week: #13
Last 10: 5-4-1
The Blueshirts were less-than-impressive this week, including their bad road loss in Atlanta. I’m really interested to see how they look tonight vs. the Devils.

14. St. Louis Blues (37-30-9)
Last Week: #19
Last 10: 7-2-1
St. Louis keeps proving me wrong, as they’ve now won 5 in a row. If this team makes the playoffs, Andy Murray gets my vote for the Jack Adams.

15. Anaheim Ducks (38-32-6)
Last Week: #16
Last 10: 7-3
Anaheim has a huge week in front of ‘em. They play road games in Edmonton & Vancouver, then have a home-and-home with the Sharks.

16. Chicago Blackhawks (40-23-11)
Last Week: #12
Last 10: 4-4-2
Even with 2 wins over the Sharks & Devils, I still don’t like the direction Quenneville’s bunch is going. Since Feb. 22, the ‘Hawks are 6-8-3.

17. Florida Panthers (37-28-11)
Last Week: #18
Last 10: 3-4-3
Big props to the Panthers for coming with 2 big road wins in Philly & Dallas. The real test is now, as 3 of their last 6 games are ‘should-win’ games. How will they respond??

18. Montreal Canadiens (38-27-10)
Last Week: #17
Last 10: 4-3-3
Ok, so they beat the Bolts & Thrashers… big whoop. They blew a chance at 2 points in Saturday’s SO loss to the Sabres. This team has no chance come playoff time.

19. Buffalo Sabres (37-30-8)
Last Week: #21
Last 10: 4-5-1
Although I still don’t like their playoff chances, Ryan Miller’s return has certainly sparked this team. A tough remaining schedule will keep ‘em away from the postseason.

20. Edmonton Oilers (36-31-9)
Last Week: #14
Last 10: 4-4-2
The Oilers have lost 4 of 5 since their back-to-back road wins in Chicago & Colorado. They finish up with 5 of 6 at home.

21. Minnesota Wild (36-32-8)
Last Week: #22
Last 10: 4-4-2
This jeckyl ‘n hyde team has hung around longer than I expected. 4 of their last 6 are at home, but it’s a tough road to a possible postseason berth.

22. Ottawa Senators (33-32-10)
Last Week: #20
Last 10: 7-3
The Sens will be playing the role of spoiler as they have many games vs. playoff teams remaining.

23. Atlanta Thrashers (32-38-6)
Last Week: #24
Last 10: 7-3
Their clearly out of the hunt, but they keep winning games, which will bode well for next season.

24. Dallas Stars (33-33-9)
Last Week: #23
Last 10: 2-7-1
The Stars have hit a wall, and will essentially need to win their last 7 to make the playoffs. But even that may not be enough…

25. Los Angeles Kings (31-33-11)
Last Week: #26
Last 10: 3-5-2
LA won’t be making the playoffs, but it was certainly a successful season by their standards, and a step in the right direction for the next year or two.

26. Toronto Maple Leafs (31-32-13)
Last Week: #25
Last 10: 5-5
Similar to the Kings, the Leafs competed as long as they could… and with Burke on board, Toronto will be making some noise down the road.

27. Phoenix Coyotes (31-37-7)
Last Week: #28
Last 10: 3-5-2
The desert dogs have played the spoiler role nicely the last couple weeks, and could deliver the final blow to Dallas’ playoff hopes tonight.

28. New York Islanders (25-41-9)
Last Week: #27
Last 10: 4-4-2
New York’s other team won in Detroit?? Yes, and they shut ‘em out, too!

29. Tampa Bay Lightning (24-35-17)
Last Week: #29
Last 10: 3-3-4
Something that Bolts fans can look forward to is the draft lottery… I’m serious. If they beat the odds and win the Tavares Sweepstakes, that’d be huge for that franchise.

30. Colorado Avalanche (31-43-2)
Last Week: #30
Last 10: 2-7-1
See the Lightning…

Playoff Formula Results (3/30)

EASTERN CONFERENCE
1. Boston Bruins
3/23 Calculation: 59.26
New Result: 63.43
2. Washington Capitals
3/23 Calculation: 45.69
New Result: 48.71
3. New Jersey Devils
3/23 Calculation: 54.90
New Result: 51.65
4. Philadelphia Flyers
3/23 Calculation: 47.97
New Result: 50.88
5. Carolina Hurricanes
3/23 Calculation: 27.96
New Result: 35.78
6. Pittsburgh Penguins
3/23 Calculation: 36.25
New Result: 40.88
7. New York Rangers
3/23 Calculation: 29.76
New Result: 29.91
8. Montreal Canadiens
3/23 Calculation: 24.55
New Result: 28.19
9. Florida Panthers
3/23 Calculation: 32.93
New Result: 36.09
10. Buffalo Sabres
3/23 Calculation: 30.61
New Result: 35.14

WESTERN CONFERENCE
1. San Jose Sharks
3/23 Calculation: 63.63
New Result: 62.53
2. Detroit Red Wings
3/23 Calculation: 52.97
New Result: 53.79
3. Calgary Flames
3/23 Calculation: 41.26
New Result: 42.01
4. Chicago Blackhawks
3/23 Calculation: 37.93
New Result: 38.11
5. Vancouver Canucks
3/23 Calculation: 39.19
New Result: 44.75
6. Columbus Blue Jackets
3/23 Calculation: 30.15
New Result: 32.54
7. Nashville Predators
3/23 Calculation: 30.55
New Result: 36.78
8. St. Louis Blues
3/23 Calculation: 29.60
New Result: 37.91
9. Anaheim Ducks
3/23 Calculation: 28.94
New Result: 35.30
10. Edmonton Oilers
3/23 Calculation: 25.42
New Result: 28.94
11. Minnesota Wild
3/23 Calculation: 31.40
New Result: 31.53

Morning Skate Xtra: Monday, 3/30

Tonight’s Slate:
Devils @ Rangers, 7:00 ET
Sharks @ Flames, 9:30
Stars @ Coyotes, 10:00

Games of the Night:
New Jersey Devils (47-24-4) @ New York Rangers (39-28-9)
7:00 ET… TV: VERSUS, TSN

Players to watch:
NJ- Paul Martin
NYR- Sean Avery

Projected Goaltenders:
NJ- Martin Brodeur (08-09 stats: 15-6-3, 2.17 GAA)
NYR- Henrik Lundqvist (08-09 stats: 34-23-7, 2.50 GAA)

Season Series: 3-2 Devils

Game Thoughts:
The Devils’ special teams have been bad lately as they’ve lost 5 of 6. New York is looking to get some breathing room from 9th-seeded Florida. Whichever goalie plays better will get the ‘W’. I like Lundqvist and company at home tonight…

Prediction: Rangers 3, Devils 2 (OT)
--
San Jose Sharks (49-15-11) @ Calgary Flames (43-26-6)
9:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Players to watch:
SJ- Devin Setoguchi
CGY- Mike Cammalleri

Projected Goaltenders:
SJ- Evgeni Nabokov (08-09 stats: 38-9-3, 2.44 GAA)
CGY- Miikka Kiprusoff (08-09 stats: 43-20-5, 2.86 GAA)

Season Series: 2-1 Flames

Game Thoughts:
This is one of my more favorite matchups to watch! San Jose is trying to extend their lead on Detroit for tops in the West… meanwhile; Calgary is fighting for their lives in the Northwest Division (1 pt. lead on VAN). The Flames took the 2 most recent meetings back in January, and I think they’ll take 3 of 4 from the recently inconsistent Sharks.

Prediction: Flames 4, Sharks 3
--
Dallas Stars (33-33-9) @ Phoenix Coyotes (31-37-7)
10:00 ET… TV: VERSUS

Players to watch:
DAL- Marty Turco
PHX- Matthew Lombardi

Projected Goaltenders:
DAL- Marty Turco (08-09 stats: 32-30-9, 2.84 GAA)
PHX- Ilya Bryzgalov (08-09 stats: 24-30-6, 2.90 GAA)

Season Series: 3-2 Coyotes

Game Thoughts:
A loss for Dallas tonight could seal their playoff fate, if it hasn’t been already. It seems like they’ve just hit a wall… just like Phoenix did after the All-Star break. The ‘Yotes are flat out playing better hockey than the Stars right now, which is why I’m picking them.

Prediction: Coyotes 3, Stars 1

Back from vacation

I am back home from Florida, and looking forward to watching & breathing hockey for the next 10 weeks!!! Big shout out to Chris from The Program for keeping up to date with the NCAA's and much more while as some hotel internet access was, well... awful. Thanks again, Chris!

For the next 2 weeks leading up to the postseason, I'm going to go all out in bringing you predictions, analysis and more on the playoff races. Check back tomorrow morning as I'll start having a special edition of the Morning Skate every day now. Expect more frequent Playoff Formula updates as well.

Stay tuned to the Red Light District for everything Stanley Cup Playoffs!

Sincerely,
Ryan (RLD director)

Playoffs Countdown

We are now just 17 days away from the greatest spectacle in sports!!!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Morning Skate Deluxe: Sunday, 3/29

Today’s Slate:
Blues @ Blue Jackets, 5:00 ET
Predators @ Red Wings, 5:00
Senators @ Lightning, 6:00
Canucks @ Blackhawks, 7:00
Bruins @ Flyers, 7:00
Wild @ Oilers, 8:00
Avalanche @ Ducks, 8:00

Games of the Night:
Game #1: Vancouver Canucks @ Chicago Blackhawks
7:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Canucks (40-25-9) … Blackhawks (40-22-11)
Last Ten: Canucks (6-3-1) … Blackhawks (4-4-2)
Away/Home: Canucks (18-14-5) … Blackhawks (21-8-7)
Season Series: 2-1 Blackhawks

Players to watch:
VAN- Mats Sundin
Sundin lit up the ‘Hawks in their last meeting and has good career numbers against them.
CHI- Dave Bolland
Chicago will need a good all around game from Bolland tonight.

Projected Goaltenders:
VAN- Roberto Luongo (08-09 stats: 28-11-6, 2.43 GAA)
CHI- Nikolai Khabibulin (08-09 stats: 20-7-6, 2.50 GAA)

Injury Report:
VAN- Rick Rypien (personal, out)
CHI- Matt Walker (lower body, doubtful), Brent Sopel (elbow, out)

Game Thoughts:
A big, big game in the UC tonight… potential 1st round home-ice on the line. Vancouver smoked Chicago last time out, 7-3 at GM Place. Look for the ‘Hawks to have a bit of payback on their minds. On the Canucks’ side of things, they should be more worried about catching Calgary for the division. Chicago has won 3 in a row and I expect them to win another close one to extend their lead on the Canucks.

Prediction: Blackhawks 4, Canucks 3
--
Game #2: Boston Bruins @ Philadelphia Flyers
7:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Bruins (47-17-10) … Flyers (41-23-10)
Last Ten: Bruins (5-4-1) … Flyers (6-4-0)
Away/Home: Bruins (22-11-4) … Flyers (22-11-4)
Season Series: 2-1 Flyers

Players to watch:
BOS- Dennis Wideman
Wideman, who had 3 A yesterday, needs to have similar 2-way performance tonight.
PHI- Joffrey Lupul
Lupul, who had 2 G yesterday, needs to come through in the clutch once again.

Projected Goaltenders:
BOS- Tim Thomas (08-09 stats: 31-11-7, 2.11 GAA)
PHI- Martin Biron (Last night @ NYI: 30 Saves, 3 GA)

Injury Report:
BOS- Marco Sturm (knee, out)
PHI- None

Game Thoughts:
Philly has had Boston’s number in Beantown this year, but not at home. The Bruins are coming off a wild 7-5 win in Toronto last night… while Philly needed a shootout to deposit the Isles. In the end, Tim Thomas is fresh so I like the Bruins to pick up the win in this possible 2nd or 3rd round playoff matchup.

Prediction: Bruins 3, Flyers 2
The rest of tonight’s predictions:
Blue Jackets over Blues
Red Wings over Predators
Senators over Lightning
Wild over Oilers
Ducks over Avalanche

This is simple.....

Notre Dame lost 5-1...and Miami (OH) and Vermont are in the Frozen Four.

Now we are in a state of mourning for my Frozen Four bracket...may it rest in pieces!!!!

Playoffs Countdown

We are now 18 days away from the greatest spectacle in sports!!!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Saturday Fantasy #26

There are just 3 more weeks of 'Saturday Fantasy'! It's pressure time for Chris and I as we bring you our Saturday studs in the NHL. I currently hold a 6-3-0 lead over Chris... here are today's picks:

Chris
F- Jamie Langenbrunner, NJ
D- Andrei Markov, MTL
G- Henrik Lundqvist, NYR
Ryan
F- Joe Thornton, SJ
D- Sergei Gonchar, PIT
G- Miikka Kiprusoff, CGY

Morning Skate Deluxe: Saturday, 3/28

Today’s Slate:
Rangers @ Penguins, 1:00 ET
Kings @ Predators, 6:00
Bruins @ Maple Leafs, 7:00
Sabres @ Canadiens, 7:00
Hurricanes @ Devils, 7:00
Flyers @ Islanders, 7:00
Senators @ Thrashers, 7:00
Panthers @ Stars, 8:00
Blue Jackets @ Blues, 8:30
Wild @ Flames, 10:00
Coyotes @ Sharks, 10:30

Games of the Night:
Game #1: New York Rangers @ Pittsburgh Penguins
1:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Rangers (39-27-9) … Penguins (40-27-8)
Last Ten: Rangers (6-3-1) … Penguins (7-1-2)
Away/Home: Rangers (16-16-5) … Penguins (22-13-3)
Season Series: 3-2 Rangers

Players to watch:
NYR- Nik Antropov
He’s gotta use his size in front to generate some goals today.
PIT- Petr Sykora
I have a hunch that Sykora will snap out of a slump and chip in a big goal.

Projected Goaltenders:
NYR- Henrik Lundqvist (08-09 stats: 34-22-7, 2.47 GAA)
PIT- Marc-Andre Fleury (08-09 stats: 31-17-6, 2.67 GAA)

Injury Report:
NYR- Michal Rozsival (knee, out)
PIT- Mike Zigomanis (undisclosed, out)

Game Thoughts:
This should be a dynamite game in the Igloo today, with playoff positioning on the line! The Pens currently hold a one point edge on New York for the 6th seed. Lundqvist will have to come up with one of his better games of the year for the Rangers to win. Pittsburgh, though, is coming off a solid win against the Flames, and are just on a mission. I like the Pens in a matinee…

Prediction: Penguins 3, Rangers 1
--
Game #2: Carolina Hurricanes @ New Jersey Devils
7:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Hurricanes (41-28-7) … Devils (47-23-4)
Last Ten: Hurricanes (7-1-2) … Devils (5-4-1)
Away/Home: Hurricanes (18-15-6) … Devils (26-10-1)
Season Series: 2-1 Hurricanes

Players to watch:
CAR- Anton Babchuk
The sparkplug from the blueline has been clutch during their latest hot stretch.
NJ- Travis Zajac
I have a gut feeling that Zajac may have a big day.

Projected Goaltenders:
CAR- Cam Ward (08-09 stats: 35-22-5, 2.48 GAA)
NJ- Martin Brodeur (Last night @ CHI: 39 Saves, 3 GA)

Injury Report:
CAR- Matt Cullen (foot, doubtful), Scott Walker (upper body, doubtful)
NJ- Andy Greene (ankle, questionable)

Game Thoughts:
A couple weeks ago, the ‘Canes were squarely on the playoff bubble. But with a win today (along with a PHI loss), they can take sole position of the 4th seed. I don’t see it, though. A Devils’ win makes too much sense. They’ve lost 3 straight and lost to Carolina just last week. I just think New Jersey is due for a ‘W’ and will get it tonight.

Prediction: Devils 4, Hurricanes 2
--
Game #3: Columbus Blue Jackets @ St. Louis Blues
8:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Blue Jackets (39-28-7) … Blues (35-30-9)
Last Ten: Blue Jackets (7-2-1) … Blues (6-3-1)
Away/Home: Blue Jackets (15-17-5) … Blues (21-13-5)
Season Series: 2-1 Blues

Players to watch:
CBJ- Rick Nash
Nash has been so big for this team this season.
STL- T.J. Oshie
Oshie is hot, and is leading the Blues’ kids line.

Projected Goaltenders:
CBJ- Steve Mason (08-09 stats: 31-17-4, 2.18 GAA)
STL- Chris Mason (08-09 stats: 21-20-6, 2.42 GAA)

Injury Report:
CBJ- Fredrik Modin (knee, out), Jason Chimera (groin, out), O-K Tollefsen (knee, out), Derick Brassard (shoulder, out)
STL- None

Game Thoughts:
This is the first game of a vital home-and-home series between these division rivals. St. Louis needs points more than Columbus and is playing their next-to-last home game. I believe they need to get 3 points out of these 2 games. I really think they’ll get 2 tonight as the Scottrade Center will be rockin’!

Prediction: Blues 3, Blue Jackets 2
The rest of tonight’s predictions:
Predators over Kings
Bruins over Maple Leafs
Canadiens over Sabres
Flyers over Islanders
Senators over Thrashers
Stars over Panthers
Flames over Wild
Sharks over Coyotes

Breaking News: NCAA Tourney....

Air Force behind 43 saves from Andrew Volkening STUNS Michigan 2-0 today.

First game...first upset...as a 4 takes down a 1.

Now to add to it.....Miami (OH) beats Denver U. 4-2.

THEN Vermont upends Yale 4-1.

Talk about crazy.

Playoffs Countdown

We are now 19 days away from the greatest spectacle in sports!!!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

NCAA Tourney Time....

Yes it is time for the NCAA College Hockey Tournament. Ryan has narrowed it down to his Frozen Four and what is scary....is we agree on this. Without further fanfare....time to list them.

• Boston U
• Michigan
• Notre Dame
• Univ of Minnesota-Duluth

Boston U will take it all over UMD in the title game. Now I do not agree with that....but still.....great predictions by Ryan. Let's see how they turn out.

Morning Skate, Friday 3/27

Tonight’s Slate:
Capitals @ Lightning 7pm ET
Maple Leafs @ Sabres 7:30pm
Isles @ Wings 7:30pm
Devils @ Blackhawks 8:30
Canucks @ Avs 9:00
Oilers @ Ducks 10:00


Games of the Night:
Game #1: NJ Devils @ Chicago Blackhawks
8:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Devils (47-23-3) … Blackhawks (39-22-11)
Last Ten: Devils (6-4-0) … Blackhawks (3-5-2)
Away/Home: Devils (21-13-2) … Blackhawks (20-8-7)
Season Series: Final Meeting, Devils won first...3-2.

Players to watch:
NJ: Martin Brodeur
Brodeur needs to bounce back and play big!!!!
CHI: Patrick Sharp
Sharp is the gas that makes this team go.

Projected Goaltenders:
NJ- Martin Brodeur (08-09 stats: 15-5-2, 2.14 GAA)
CHI- Nikolai Khabibulin (08-09 stats: 19-7-6, 2.52 GAA)

Injury Report:
NJ- Patrik Elias (lower b)
CHI- Cam Barker (lower b.), Brent Sopel (upper b.), Matt Walker (lower b.)

Game Thoughts:
The Devils have to start killing penalties and get some breaks. Basically they have to play Devils hockey and go right at Chicago. If they do not...Sharp and company will eat New Jersey alive and Brent Sutter will have another temper tantrum. Devils may get caught looking ahead to Carolina Saturday.

Prediction: Blackhawks 3, Devils 2 (OT)
--
Game #2: Edmonton Oilers @ Anaheim Ducks
10:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Oilers (35-30-9) Ducks (37-31-6)
Last Ten: Oilers (3-4-3) Ducks (6-3-1)
Away/Home: Oilers (19-17-3) Ducks (18-16-3)
Season Series: Final Meeting

Players to watch:
EDM - Ales Hemsky
Hemsky is dangerous especially against the Ducks.
ANA - JS Giguere
Needs to keep playing well if the Ducks are to prosper.

Projected Goaltenders:
EDM- Dwayne Rolosson (08-09 stats: 26-20-9, 2.76 GAA)
ANA- JS Giguere (08-09 stats: 19-17-5, 3.06 GAA)

Injury Report:
EDM- Liam Reddox (concussion), Lubomir Visnovsky (Labrum)...out for year.
ANA- D Bret Hedican (back) out indefinitel, .D Francois Beauchemin (reconstructive knee surgery), LW Brad Larsen out for the year.

Game Thoughts:
A game that both teams absolutely have to have. Ducks need to beat Edmonton for a boost and the Oilers need a win to stem the tide err slump! If Giguere can play like he has....then the Ducks may just win this one...BUT I think the Oilers need this more right now. Call this one a hunch and a bit of a surprise!

Prediction: Oilers 3 Ducks 2 (SO)...(Ryan picks Ducks)

The rest of tonight’s predictions:

Capitals over Lightning
Maple Leafs over Buffalo
Wings over Isles
Canucks over Avs

Playoffs Countdown

We are less than a month away from the Stanley Cup Playoffs.... 20 days to be exact!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Morning Skate....Thursday, 3/26

Tonight’s Slate:
Rangers @ Thrashers 7pm ET
Flames @ Blue Jackets 7pm
Panthers @ Flyers 7pm
Lightning @ Canadiens 7:30
Sharks @ Predators 8:00
Kings @ Stars 8:30
Canucks @ Blues 8:30
Oilers @ Coyotes 10:00


Games of the Night:
Game #1: Calgary Flames @ Columbus Blue Jackets
7:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Flames (42-25-6) … BJ's (38-28-7)
Last Ten: Flames (4-6-0) … BJ's (7-2-1)
Away/Home: Flames (18-16-2) … BJ's (23-11-2)
Season Series: Final Meeting

Players to watch:
CGY- David Moss
The Flames will likely need secondary scoring to win tonight.
CBJ- Steve Mason
Simply has to keep playing the way he has.

Projected Goaltenders:
CGY- Miikka Kiprusoff (08-09 stats: 42-19-5, 2.85 GAA)
CBJ- Steve Mason (08-09 stats: 30-17-4, 2.22 GAA)

Injury Report:
CGY- Todd Bertuzzi (knee, out), Rene Bourque (ankle, out), Mark Giordano (shoulder, out), Andre Roy (upper body, out), Wayne Primeau (foot, out), Rhett Warrener (shoulder, out)
CBJ- Jason Chimera (groin, out), Olaf Tollefsen (lower body, out), Derek Brassard (shoulder, out)

Game Thoughts:
I’m going to be interested to see how the Flames bounce back tonight. Columbus smells playoffs and every two points count but Calgary knows Vancouver is coming hard and fast and that division lead is in jeopardy. Look out below as they say. This should be a worthy one. In the end, I smell a slight upset.

Prediction: Flames 4, Blue Jackets 3 (SO)
--
Game #2: Florida Panthers @ Philadelphia Flyers
7:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Panthers (35-28-11) Flyers (40-22-10)
Last Ten: Panthers (2-5-3) Flyers (6-4-0)
Away/Home: Panthers (16-17-4) Flyers (22-10-4)
Season Series: 1-1 (FLA has 3 points)

Players to watch:
FLA - David Booth
Booth is a sniper and they need his goals more than ever.
PHI - Mike Richards
Richards makes this team go on all phases.

Projected Goaltenders:
FLA- Tomas Vokoun (08-09 stats: 23-22-6, 2.49 GAA)
PHI- Martin Biron (08-09 stats: 25-15-5, 2.71 GAA)

Injury Report:
FLA- Bryan Allen (knee, out)
PHI- None significant

Game Thoughts:
This may be Florida's last stand....my god...if they lose this in regulation...they are looking at an uphill battle with Montreal for the 8th seed. Florida gives up nearly 35 shots a game and that is worst in the league. If they do not play somewhat disciplined on the road without playing apprehensive...this game could blow up in their faces as Philly is lethal whether 5 on 5, shorthanded, or on the Power Play. This will be too tough for them.

Prediction: Flyers 4 Panthers 2

The rest of tonight’s predictions:

Thrashers over Rangers
Habs over Lightning
Predators over Sharks
Blues over Canucks
Stars over Kings
Oilers over Coyotes

Only In Long Island......

With Martin Gerber getting suspended for at least 3 games, Tukka Rask throwing a tantrum, and playoff teams falling over each other.....it is time for something funny. Now a funny thing happened as the Wild routed the Islanders....the door opened?

Here is the evidence.....




Funny funny scrum.......



Good night everyone and more news tomorrow......

Playoffs Countdown

We are less than a month away from the Stanley Cup Playoffs.... 21 days to be exact!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

If the season ended today...

... These would be my predictions:
EASTERN CONFERENCE
1) Bruins over 8) Canadiens in 5
2) Devils over 7) Rangers in 5
6) Penguins over 3) Capitals in 7
4) Flyers over 5) Hurricanes in 6

1) Bruins over 6) Penguins in 6
2) Devils over 4) Flyers in 7

2) Devils over 1) Bruins in 6

WESTERN CONFERENCE
1) Red Wings over 8) Ducks in 6
2) Sharks over 7) Oilers in 6
3) Flames over 6) Blue Jackets in 6
5) Canucks over 4) Blackhawks in 5

5) Canucks over 1) Red Wings in 6
2) Sharks over 3) Flames in 7

5) Canucks over 2) Sharks in 6

STANLEY CUP FINALS
Devils over Canucks in 5
Conn Smythe: Martin Brodeur

Morning Skate Deluxe: Wednesday, 3/25

Tonight’s Slate:
Panthers @ Sabres, 7:00 ET
Senators @ Hurricanes, 7:00
Wild @ Islanders, 7:00
Flames @ Penguins, 7:30
Sharks @ Blackhawks, 8:30
Ducks @ Avalanche, 9:00

Games of the Night:
Game #1: Calgary Flames @ Pittsburgh Penguins
7:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Flames (42-24-6) … Penguins (39-27-8)
Last Ten: Flames (5-5-0) … Penguins (7-1-2)
Away/Home: Flames (18-15-2) … Penguins (21-13-3)
Season Series: 1st Meeting

Players to watch:
CGY- David Moss
The Flames will likely need secondary scoring to win tonight.
PIT- Evgeni Malkin
The Art Ross leader looks to extend on his points lead.

Projected Goaltenders:
CGY- Miikka Kiprusoff (08-09 stats: 42-18-5, 2.86 GAA)
PIT- Marc-Andre Fleury (08-09 stats: 24-11-3, 2.26 GAA)

Injury Report:
CGY- Todd Bertuzzi (knee, out), Rene Bourque (ankle, out), Mark Giordano (shoulder, out), Andre Roy (upper body, out), Wayne Primeau (foot, out), Rhett Warrener (shoulder, out)
PIT- Mike Zigomanis (undisclosed, out)

Game Thoughts:
I’m going to be interested to see how the Pens respond from their first regulation loss this month. Fleury will have to be on top of his game. Calgary boasts a strong front line, especially with the addition of Olli Jokinen. This game will come down to Kipper. He can steal this game, but I don’t see it. I expect the Pens to bounce back with a solid win tonight.

Prediction: Penguins 4, Flames 2
--
Game #2: San Jose Sharks @ Chicago Blackhawks
8:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Sharks (48-14-10) … Blackhawks (38-22-11)
Last Ten: Sharks (6-3-1) … Blackhawks (3-5-2)
Away/Home: Sharks (18-11-6) … Blackhawks (19-8-7)
Season Series: 2-1 Sharks

Players to watch:
SJ- Milan Michalek
Michalek is starting to heat up, which is bad news for his opponents.
CHI- Patrick Sharp
Sharp provided a spark when he came back on Sunday.

Projected Goaltenders:
SJ- Evgeni Nabokov (08-09 stats: 37-8-7, 2.39 GAA)
CHI- Nikolai Khabibulin (08-09 stats: 18-7-6, 2.45 GAA)

Injury Report:
SJ- Rob Blake (hip, out), Ryane Clowe (lower body, out), Marcel Goc (knee, out), Torrey Mitchell (leg, out), Mike Grier (knee, out), Jeremy Roenick (shoulder, out), Claude Lemieux (jaw, out), Tomas Plihal (lower body, questionable), Kent Huskins (foot, out)
CHI- Brent Sopel (elbow, out)

Game Thoughts:
Chicago has hung tough with the Sharks this year, and is desperate to keep pace with Vancouver for home-ice. Meanwhile, San Jose is looking to extend their lead on Detroit for first in the West. This should be an interesting one, but I expect the ‘Hawks to get the ‘W’ at home.

Prediction: Blackhawks 4, Sharks 3
The rest of tonight’s predictions:
Sabres over Panthers
Hurricanes over Senators
Wild over Islanders
Ducks over Avalanche

Playoffs Countdown

We are less than a month away from the Stanley Cup Playoffs.... 22 days to be exact!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Brimstone And Hellfire!!

Have you ever wondered why some fans have such high standards? You take a look at your team and just wish your team was in that position? Basically you want to strangle that hockey fan in ways that you cannot understand. It is a horrible feeling of "perpetual mediocrity" when your team is just good enough not to be awful but bad enough to never really contend for the playoffs.

So when I look at a few of my good friends who happen to be Buffalo Sabres fans....I guess I have to pause a bit. While my team is in the midst of a two game losing streak. They do have 97 points and lead their division. At the very worst, they will make the playoffs. The best case scenario is that they finish #1 or #2 in the East. That is not bad and yet I do not feel satisfied.

Contrast that with Sabres fans who are mired in a season that had so much promise until Scott Gomez "knocked" over Ryan Miller. Here is that good old video evidence......




Entire game headlights of Sabres-Rangers



From that day on....the Sabres have not been the same. Unlike the Devils who rose from the ashes after the Martin Brodeur injury. (See below...)




The Brodeur Injury....


Weird how two franchise goaltenders went down and two teams went in bipolar directions....err opposite. Buffalo just has not been the same and thankfully Ryan Miller is practicing but honestly it is probably too late for the Sabres. Could Sabres fans even imagine Ryan Miller being out for almost 4 months? Do not answer that for them! A little over a month is plenty enough.

The reactions from those Sabres fans are pretty much...death and despair. They almost want the Sabres to tank but really they cannot tank enough for it to be worth it. Therefore, they are simply stuck!

I am guessing, in retrospect, that maybe I should not get so mad with the Devils because there are fans that have teams in worse positions. Imagine what it is like to be a Toronto fan where the ownership is more worried about money than performance. Really, you have to appreciate what you have because you never know what can happen.

Just keep that in mind the next time you lament about your team that makes the playoffs just about every year.

Morning Skate Deluxe: Tuesday, 3/24

Tonight’s Slate:
Capitals @ Maple Leafs, 7:00 ET
Wild @ Rangers, 7:00
Thrashers @ Canadiens, 7:30
Blue Jackets @ Lightning, 7:30
Ducks @ Predators, 8:00
Kings @ Blues, 8:30
Canucks @ Stars, 8:30
Red Wings @ Oilers, 9:30

Games of the Night:
Game #1: Anaheim Ducks @ Nashville Predators
8:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Ducks (35-31-6) … Predators (35-30-7)
Last Ten: Ducks (5-4-1) … Predators (5-2-3)
Away/Home: Ducks (17-15-3) … Predators (21-12-3)
Season Series: 2-1 Predators

Players to watch:
ANA- Ryan Getzlaf
If he has a big game, the Preds are in trouble.
NSH- J.P. Dumont
With Arnott likely out, look for Dumont to up his game tonight.

Projected Goaltenders:
ANA- Jean-Sebastien Giguere (08-09 stats: 18-17-5, 3.12 GAA)
NSH- Pekka Rinne (08-09 stats: 24-11-3, 2.26 GAA)

Injury Report:
ANA- Bret Hedican (back, out), Francois Beauchemin (knee, out), Brad Larsen (sports hernia, out)
NSH- Jason Arnott (concussion, doubtful), Radek Bonk (upper body, out), Wade Belak (lower body, out)

Game Thoughts:
This is a critical game in the Western Conference playoff race. The Ducks currently sit in 9th, 1 point behind Nashville; they went 3-0 last week. The Predators went 2-0-2 on their Pacific swing, and are barely in 8th. Rinne must have a big game against the hot Ducks, and I think he will. It’ll be a close game that’s decided in the third, but I like the Preds to pick up 2 big points.

Prediction: Predators 3, Ducks 2
--
Game #2: Detroit Red Wings @ Edmonton Oilers
9:30 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Red Wings (48-16-9) … Oilers (35-28-9)
Last Ten: Red Wings (7-2-1) … Oilers (4-2-4)
Away/Home: Red Wings (22-11-5) … Oilers (35-28-9)
Season Series: 3-0 Red Wings

Players to watch:
DET- Johan Franzen
Look for the ‘Mule’ to light up Roli the goalie tonight.
EDM- Sam Gagner
Gagner is starting to heat up at the right time.

Projected Goaltenders:
DET- Ty Conklin (Last night @ CGY: 11 Saves, 1 GA – in relief)
EDM- Dwayne Roloson (08-09 stats: 26-18-9, 2.75 GAA)

Injury Report:
DET- Andreas Lilja (concussion, out), Tomas Holmstrom (knee, questionable)
EDM- Lubomir Visnovsky (shoulder, out)

Game Thoughts:
Detroit is coming off a tough loss in Calgary last night, and the Oilers were shut out in Minnesota on Sunday. Something’s gotta give, right? I believe the Wings will complete the season series sweep, and make things a lot more interesting for the 7 and 8 seeds in the West.

Prediction: Red Wings 6, Oilers 4
The rest of tonight’s predictions:
Capitals over Maple Leafs
Rangers over Wild
Canadiens over Thrashers
Blue Jackets over Lightning
Blues over Kings
Stars over Canucks

Playoffs Countdown

We are less than a month away from the Stanley Cup Playoffs.... 23 days to be exact!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

The Week Ahead

Top 5 games I’m looking forward to:
1. Devils @ Flyers (Monday)
2. Red Wings @ Flames (Monday)
3. Flames @ Penguins (Wednesday)
4. Bruins @ Flyers (Sunday)
5. Sharks @ Predators (Thursday)

Teams with the most on the line:
1. Minnesota Wild
The Wild, who beat Edmonton 3-0 yesterday, play a back-to-back in New York this week. Then they’ll travel to Calgary and Edmonton this weekend for a critical 2-game swing.
2. Buffalo Sabres
Buffalo’s make-or-break week is this one. They have 3 games, and must go 3-0. They’re 5 points out of a playoff spot at this moment. Their 3 opponents are Florida (H), Toronto (H), and Montreal (A).

National TV Schedule (US):
Tonight-
Devils @ Flyers… VERSUS
Tuesday-
Wild @ Rangers… VERSUS
Wednesday-
Flames @ Penguins… NHL Network
Saturday-
Bruins @ Maple Leafs … NHL Network
Wild @ Flames… NHL Network

Power Rankings (3/23)

1. Detroit Red Wings (48-15-9)
Last Week: #1
Last 10: 7-2-1
Though Detroit’s recent losses have been glaring, they’ve gone 16-4-2 since the beginning of February. It looks like they’ll eventually pull away from San Jose for best in the West.

2. San Jose Sharks (48-14-10)
Last Week: #3
Last 10: 6-3-1
San Jose went 3-0 this week and overtook Detroit in the West for the time being. Although ugly, these wins will help their pursuit of the Presidents’ Trophy.

3. New Jersey Devils (47-22-3)
Last Week: #2
Last 10: 7-3
The Devils had 2 nice home wins this week, including Brodeur’s milestone night… but also has 2 disappointing losses on the road. 3 big games this week (PHI, CHI, CAR).

4. Vancouver Canucks (38-24-9)
Last Week: #4
Last 10: 7-2-1
The Canucks are suddenly developing into the dark horse to come out of the West, and could ultimately jump over Calgary for the Northwest title.

5. Boston Bruins (46-17-10)
Last Week: #5
Last 10: 4-5-1
Boston may have won their biggest game of the year Sunday vs. New Jersey, but they’ll have a 5-day layoff ‘til there next game. They’ll have to watch the Devils & Capitals gain ground on ‘em.

6. Pittsburgh Penguins (39-27-8)
Last Week: #6
Last 10: 7-1-2
Memo to the Pens: please don’t wear the baby blues anymore! It’s not Pittsburgh… black & gold is Pittsburgh. As long as they stay away from them in the playoffs, they’ll be fine.

7. Philadelphia Flyers (39-22-10)
Last Week: #8
Last 10: 6-4
The Flyers picked up a big win in Pittsburgh yesterday, as they now have a firm grip with the 4th seed in the East, and they have 3 games in hand on both the Pens & ‘Canes.

8. Columbus Blue Jackets (38-28-6)
Last Week: #9
Last 10: 7-3
Steve Mason & company downright stole 2 points from Florida on Saturday with 3 goals in the last 3 minutes. The Jackets are closing in on Chicago & Vancouver.

9. Washington Capitals (45-23-6)
Last Week: #7
Last 10: 5-4-1
The Caps went 2-2 on the road this week, but it was overshadowed by Ovechkin’s controversial goal celebration. Also, Theodore’s inconsistencies continue…

10. Carolina Hurricanes (39-28-7)
Last Week: #12
Last 10: 7-1-2
The ‘Canes may have just 8 games remaining, but they’re certainly making their case for a playoff spot. Carolina had 3 impressive wins this week, and currently sits in 6th.

11. Calgary Flames (41-24-6)
Last Week: #10
Last 10: 4-6
Calgary’s team defense has been abysmal this month, giving up over 4 goals per game. Kipper & the boys have to get things back on track before April 15th.

12. Chicago Blackhawks (38-22-11)
Last Week: #11
Last 10: 3-5-2
Yesterday’s win over the Kings wasn’t overly impressive, and I’m still worried about this team heading into the playoffs. Either Huet or Khabibulin needs to step up in a big way.

13. New York Rangers (38-27-8)
Last Week: #16
Last 10: 7-3
The Blueshirts put together another nice week under Tortorella… Saturday’s game in Pittsburgh shall be a dandy!

14. Edmonton Oilers (35-28-9)
Last Week: #20
Last 10: 5-1-4
I was really impressed with their back-to-back wins in Colorado & Chicago. And even though they lost in Minny yesterday, their playoff chances are looking better nowadays.

15. Nashville Predators (35-30-7)
Last Week: #14
Last 10: 5-2-3
The Preds had a successful road trip, picking up points in all 4 games. If Arnott can come back promptly, Trotz & company could be in the playoffs for the 5th straight year.

16. Anaheim Ducks (35-31-6)
Last Week: #21
Last 10: 5-4-1
Anaheim had a great week by going 3-0. They’re currently in 9th, and have a big game in Nashville on Tuesday.

17. Montreal Canadiens (36-27-9)
Last Week: #13
Last 10: 3-5-2
Bob Gainey has got to be in hot water after Saturday’s bad loss to Toronto. The Habs, in their 100th season, are in danger of missing the playoffs.

18. Florida Panthers (35-27-10)
Last Week: #17
Last 10: 4-4-2
Not trading Jay Bouwmeester seemed like it would help Florida’s playoff chances. But 2 key injuries have resulted in a bad 2-4-2 stretch since the trade deadline.

19. St. Louis Blues (33-30-9)
Last Week: #19
Last 10: 5-4-1
The Blues will not go away in the West, and have 3 big home games this week. A 3-0 week is crucial before playing 6 of 7 on the road to the end the season.

20. Ottawa Senators (32-30-10)
Last Week: #25
Last 10: 9-1
It’s a shame that the hottest team in the league will likely miss the postseason. But this is a great stepping stone to next season for Clouston & company.

21. Buffalo Sabres (34-30-8)
Last Week: #15
Last 10: 3-6-1
Buffalo’s only hope of making the postseason seems to be a collapse by both the Panthers and the Habs. They’re 3-7-2 since Ryan Miller got injured.

22. Minnesota Wild (34-30-8)
Last Week: #22
Last 10: 3-4-3
Yesterday’s win over Edmonton was huge as they close within one point of Nashville for 8th. This week is critical to their playoff hopes with 4 road games on tap.

23. Dallas Stars (33-31-8)
Last Week: #18
Last 10: 4-5-1
Are the Stars worn out from all the injuries and hard work from getting back in the race?? In my estimation, Turco needs to lead the charge and go 8-2 in these last 10 games to make it.

24. Atlanta Thrashers (30-37-6)
Last Week: #23
Last 10: 7-3
Atlanta obviously won’t make the playoffs, but this late season success could help the team for next season.

25. Toronto Maple Leafs (30-30-13)
Last Week: #24
Last 10: 5-4-1
Could Martin Gerber be teamed with Toskala next year between the pipes?? He’s been a pleasant surprise for the Leafs (4-3-1).

26. Los Angeles Kings (30-32-10)
Last Week: #26
Last 10: 4-5-1
LA’s comeback win in Boston seemed big at the time, but 2 straight losses and a lot more road games minimize their playoff chances.

27. New York Islanders (24-40-8)
Last Week: #27
Last 10: 5-4-1
The Isles will be looking to play the role of spoilers as 9 of their last 10 games are played against playoff-contending teams.

28. Phoenix Coyotes (30-36-7)
Last Week: #30Last 10: 3-5-2
The Coyotes beat the Sharks & Canucks at home this week, and temporarily climb out of the cellar.

29. Tampa Bay Lightning (23-33-16)
Last Week: #28
Last 10: 3-3-4
Three home losses this week pushed the Bolts’ record at St. Pete Times Forum to 11-15-11.

30. Colorado Avalanche (31-40-2)
Last Week: #29
Last 10: 3-6-1
The Avs fall back into the cellar after their awful 8-1 loss on home-ice to the Oilers this week.

Morning Skate: Monday, 3/23

Tonight’s Slate:
Devils @ Flyers, 7:00 ET
Hurricanes @ Panthers, 7:30
Red Wings @ Flames, 9:30

Game of the Night:
New Jersey Devils @ Philadelphia Flyers
7:00 ET… TV: VERSUS, TSN

Records:
Overall: Devils (47-22-3) … Flyers (39-22-10)
Last Ten: Devils (7-3-0) … Flyers (6-4-0)
Away/Home: Devils (21-12-2) … Flyers (21-10-4)
Season Series: 3-2 Devils

Players to watch:
NJ- Jamie Langenbrunner
Look for the captain to get back on track after 2 games without a point.
PHI- Simon Gagne
Just a gut feeling that he’ll do well if the Flyers win.

Projected Goaltenders:
NJ- Martin Brodeur (Yesterday @ BOS: 26 Saves, 4 GA)
PHI- Martin Biron (Yesterday @ PIT: 27 Saves, 1 GA)

Injury Report:
NJ- Colin White (lower body, doubtful)
PHI- None

Game Thoughts:
These two played yesterday in key Eastern Conference battles, but they had different results. Philly won 3-1 in Pittsburgh, while the Devils fell in Boston, 4-1. This season series has been really tightly contested, and I don’t expect anything different tonight at Wachovia. The house will be rockin’, and I like the Flyers as they’re coming off 2 big road wins.

Prediction: Flyers 3, Devils 2 (OT)
The rest of tonight’s predictions:
Panthers over Hurricanes
Red Wings over Flames

Playoffs Countdown

We are less than a month away from the Stanley Cup Playoffs.... 24 days to be exact!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Around the NHL

Comparing this year’s Habs to last year’s Sens…
07/08 Sens:
October thru December… 25-9-4
January thru April… 18-22-4
Playoffs… Swept by Pittsburgh
Team turmoil… Paddock fired; Emery distractions
08/09 Habs:
October thru December… 21-9-6
January thru April… 15-18-3 (10 gms left)
Playoffs… unknown; chances of winning in postseason not good
Team turmoil… Carbonneau fired; star players under the microscope

Comparing this year’s Blues to last year’s Caps…
07/08 Caps:
October thru December… 15-19-5
January thru April… 28-12-3
End result… Southeast champs, lose in first round to Philadelphia
Team uprising… Hiring of Bruce Boudreau; deadline deals
08/09 Blues:
October thru December… 14-20-3
January thru April… 19-10-6 (10 gms left)
End result… unknown; vying for final playoff spot in West
Team uprising… Chris Mason’s play; equal contributions from forwards

Is Gainey to blame in Montreal??
It’s been going on for a couple months, but things have gone from bad to worse with Bob Gainey behind the bench in Montreal. After last night’s embarrassment on home-ice vs. Toronto, the Habs are 1-3-2 since Guy Carbonneau was fired, and are on the fence of the top 8 in the East. This is their centennial season… this isn’t what was meant to be… there was so much promise for this young & exciting team that finished in first in the East just a year ago. And yet Montreal could miss the playoffs with their future in doubt for next season. Let’s take a look at their upcoming free agents…
Unrestricted: Alexei Kovalev, Alex Tanguay, Saku Koivu, Robert Lang, Tom Kostopolous, Francis Bouillon, Mike Komisarek, Mathieu Schneider, Mathieu Dandenault, and Patrice Brisebois
Restricted: Chris Higgins, Tomas Plekanec, Guillaume Latendresse, Matt D’Agostini
As you can see, a big bulk of this team does not have a contract for next year, and maybe that has some sort of effect in these last couple tumultuous months. But if you ask me, Gainey is the root of the problem. He’s been conservative on the free agent front, which can be a good or bad thing. But in a market like Montreal, you have to take a chance every so often. He fired Carbonneau while the Habs were just starting to find winning ways. The team has not responded well. Also, his handling of the Carey Price situation hasn’t been the best. IMO, Price has to be in Hamilton right now finding his game. I’ve believed that ever since the All-Star break. You can’t expect him to solve his bad habits against other NHL teams. And I won’t even bring up the whole Kovalev fiasco…
There have been numerous issues for the Habs this season. But Gainey’s wrong decisions make me believe that he may need to go this summer if Montreal fails to make the playoffs.

Pens & Canucks cruising at the right time
Pittsburgh… Under Dan Bylsma, the Pens are 12-1-3 and have put themselves into a position to possibly have home-ice in the 1st round. Chris Kunitz (11 GP, 6 G, 6 A) and Bill Guerin (8 GP, 3 G, 7 A) have been the perfect additions for this club. Sid & Geno have also gotten hot with Bylsma manning the bench. The sleeper in this whole equation is Sergei Gonchar, who has 15 points in the 16 games back from injury. And don’t forget Fleury, who’s been putting up gaudy numbers since the coaching change. This team is just jelling at the perfect time and no one wants to play them in the playoffs!
Vancouver… On February 3rd, the Canucks were hosting Carolina trying to rid their 9-game losing streak at home. The game is tied at 3 late in the 3rd, and the ‘Canes are going on a power play. It’s locked up… Vancouver was going to lose their 10th straight at GM Place. But like a flash of lightning, Alex Burrows scores a shorthanded goal to put them up 4-3… and the rest is history! The Canucks are 16-4-1 since their horrid home losing streak, and like the Pens, are in a position to steal home-ice for the 1st round. You can credit Burrows & Kesler offensively over the last couple months; these two have been outstanding. That shorty vs. Carolina seemed to have sparked something in Burrows as the agitator-turned-scorer has 18 points in the last 20 games. Kesler, meanwhile, has 24 points over those same 20 games, and has fit in perfectly next to Sundin & Demitra. It’s funny how a new month can suddenly spark a team…

Morning Skate Deluxe: Sunday, 3/22

Today’s Slate:
Flyers @ Penguins, 12:00 ET
Kings @ Blackhawks, 3:00
Oilers @ Wild, 3:00
Devils @ Bruins, 3:00
Senators @ Rangers, 7:00
Coyotes @ Ducks, 8:00
Avalanche @ Sharks, 8:00

Games of the Day:
Game #1: Philadelphia Flyers @ Pittsburgh Penguins
12:30 ET… TV: NBC

Records:
Overall: Flyers (38-22-10) … Penguins (39-26-8)
Last Ten: Flyers (5-5-0) … Penguins (8-0-2)
Away/Home: Flyers (17-12-6) … Penguins (21-12-3)
Season Series: 4-1 Penguins

Players to watch:
PHI- Mike Knuble
If Philly wins, I’d expect to see Knuble chip in a goal or two.
PIT- Evgeni Malkin
‘Geno could continue his Hart pursuit with a big game.

Projected Goaltenders:
PHI- Martin Biron (March stats: 4-3-0, 2.36 GAA)
PIT- Marc-Andre Fleury (March stats: 7-0-2, 1.93 GAA)

Injury Report:
PHI- Randy Jones (hip, questionable)
PIT- Philippe Boucher (foot, questionable), Mike Zigomanis (undisclosed, out)

Game Thoughts:
This is the game I’ve been waiting for all week. The Pens can hop over the Flyers into 4th in the East with a win today. Pittsburgh is absolutely on fire, while Philly has been up-and-down this month. I really believe this will be played like a playoff game as this is a legit 1st round preview. Malkin & the Pens will take 5 of 6 from Philly…

Prediction: Penguins 4, Flyers 2
----
Game #2: New Jersey Devils @ Boston Bruins
3:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Devils (47-21-3) … Bruins (45-17-10)
Last Ten: Devils (8-2-0) … Bruins (3-5-2)
Away/Home: Devils (21-11-2) … Bruins (24-6-6)
Season Series: 2-1 Devils

Players to watch:
NJ- Patrik Elias
Elias is riding a 5-game point streak, and usually plays well vs. Boston.
BOS- Milan Lucic
‘Looch’ has just 1 point in the last 9 games… look for him to bring a physical presence.

Projected Goaltenders:
NJ- Martin Brodeur (08-09 stats: 14-3-2, 2.06 GAA)
BOS- Tim Thomas (08-09 stats: 30-11-7, 2.13 GAA)

Injury Report:
NJ- Colin White (lower body, questionable)
BOS- Marco Sturm (knee, out)

Game Thoughts:
Home-ice in the East is on the line today in possibly the biggest game of the year. All 3 games this year between these two have been tightly contested, and decided in the 3rd period. The Bruins almost have to win this game to relieve the pressure… they’ve lost 4 of 6. A Devils will put them one step closer to kicking Boston off its perch. I’m expecting the latter… Devils in a close one.

Prediction: Devils 2, Bruins 1
The rest of today’s predictions:
Kings over Blackhawks
Oilers over Wild
Rangers over Senators
Ducks over Coyotes
Sharks over Avalanche

Playoffs Countdown

We are less than a month away from the Stanley Cup Playoffs.... 25 days to be exact!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Another day at the races

The last couple weeks, I’ve brought you a rundown on the schedules of each of the ‘bubble’ teams. Well, today I’m breaking down the conference leaders, and who will have home-ice advantage come playoff time.

EASTERN CONFERENCE
Boston Bruins
Where they stand:
1st, 100 pts, 10 GR

Schedule Breakdown:
3/22 vs. New Jersey
3/28 @ Toronto
3/29 @ Philadelphia
3/31 vs. Tampa Bay
4/2 vs. Ottawa
4/4 vs. NY Rangers
4/7 @ Ottawa
4/9 vs. Montreal
4/11 @ Buffalo
4/12 @ NY Islanders

- Projected Record: 6-3-1
- Projected Finish: 113 points (51 W), 2nd in the East

New Jersey Devils
Where they stand:
2nd, 97 pts, 11 GR

Schedule Breakdown:
3/22 @ Boston
3/23 @ Philadelphia
3/27 @ Chicago
3/28 vs. Carolina
3/30 @ NY Rangers
4/1 @ Pittsburgh
4/3 vs. Tampa Bay
4/4 @ Buffalo
4/7 vs. Toronto
4/9 @ Ottawa
4/11 vs. Carolina

- Projected Record: 8-3-0
- Projected Finish: 113 points (55 W), 1st in the East

Washington Capitals
Where they stand:
3rd, 96 pts, 9 GR

Schedule Breakdown:
3/21 @ Carolina
3/24 @ Toronto
3/27 vs. Tampa Bay
4/1 vs. NY Islanders
4/3 vs. Buffalo
4/5 vs. Atlanta
4/7 @ Atlanta
4/9 @ Tampa Bay
4/11 @ Florida

- Projected Record: 6-2-1
- Projected Finish: 109 points, 3rd in the East

WESTERN CONFERENCE
Detroit Red Wings
Where they stand:
1st, 105 pts, 10 GR

Schedule Breakdown:
3/23 @ Calgary
3/24 @ Edmonton
3/27 vs. NY Islanders
3/29 vs. Nashville
4/2 vs. St. Louis
4/5 vs. Minnesota
4/6 @ Buffalo
4/9 vs. Nashville
4/11 vs. Chicago
4/12 @ Chicago

- Projected Record: 8-2-0
- Projected Finish: 121 points, 1st in the West

San Jose Sharks
Where they stand:
2nd, 102 pts, 12 GR

Schedule Breakdown:
3/21 vs. Dallas
3/22 vs. Colorado
3/25 @ Chicago
3/26 @ Nashville
3/28 vs. Phoenix
3/30 @ Calgary
3/2 @ Edmonton
3/4 vs. Anaheim
3/5 @ Anaheim
3/7 vs. Colorado
3/9 vs. Phoenix
3/11 @ Los Angeles

- Projected Record: 8-3-1
- Projected Finish: 119 points, 2nd in the West

Saturday Fantasy #25

There are just 4 more weeks of 'Saturday Fantasy'! It's pressure time for Chris and I as we bring you our Saturday studs in the NHL. With Pekka Rinne's shutout last week, I currently hold a 6-3-0 lead over Chris... here are today's picks:
Chris
F- Mike Comrie, OTT
D- Mark Streit, NYI
G- Tomas Vokoun, FLA*
Ryan
F- Dany Heatley, OTT*
D- Mike Green, WSH #
G- Henrik Lundqvist, NYR*

* This is the 2nd time we've used these players.
# This is the 3rd and final time I can use Green.

Morning Skate Deluxe: Saturday, 3/21

Tonight’s Slate:
Stars @ Sharks, 4:00 ET
Capitals @ Hurricanes, 7:00
Maple Leafs @ Canadiens, 7:00
Sabres @ Rangers, 7:00
Islanders @ Senators, 7:00
Blue Jackets @ Panthers, 7:00
Thrashers @ Lightning, 7:30
Canucks @ Coyotes, 10:00

Games of the Night:
Game #1: Dallas Stars @ San Jose Sharks
4:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Stars (33-30-8) … Sharks (46-14-10)
Last Ten: Stars (4-5-1) … Sharks (4-5-1)
Away/Home: Stars (14-17-4) … Sharks (28-3-4)
Season Series: 4-1 Sharks

Players to watch:
DAL- Loui Eriksson
With their main offensive guys injured, Dallas needs Eriksson’s scoring touch today.
SJ- Joe Thornton
Big Joe has owned Dallas in his career.

Projected Goaltenders:
DAL- Marty Turco (08-09 stats: 32-27-8, 2.81 GAA)
SJ- Evgeni Nabokov (08-09 stats: 35-8-7, 2.42 GAA)

Injury Report:
DAL- Mike Modano (lower body, questionable), Steve Begin (upper body, questionable), Brad Richards (wrist, out), Brendan Morrow (knee, out), Toby Petersen (foot, out), Sergei Zubov (hip, out)
SJ- Christian Ehrhoff (lower body, questionable), Ryan Clowe (lower body, out), Torrey Mitchell (leg, out), Mike Grier (knee, out), Claude Lemieux (jaw, out), Tomas Plihal (lower body, out), Jeremy Roenick (shoulder, out), Kent Huskins (foot, out)

Game Thoughts:
Look at all of those injuries… holy crap! This is not the time to be loading up your IR. Anyhoo, this should be a 60-minute battle between two rivals. The Stars are struggling, and lost their first 2 road games of this trip in Vancouver & Calgary. San Jose, though, has also been sputtering, and is looking to keep pace with the red-hot Red Wings. It’ll be a boring, close game with the Sharks edging the Stars.

Prediction: Sharks 2, Stars 1
----
Game #2: Washington Capitals @ Carolina Hurricanes
7:00 ET… TV: Local Networks

Records:
Overall: Capitals (45-22-6) … Hurricanes (38-28-7)
Last Ten: Capitals (5-4-1) … Hurricanes (6-2-2)
Away/Home: Capitals (19-13-4) … Hurricanes (21-13-1)
Season Series: 3-2 Capitals

Players to watch:
WSH- Alexander Ovechkin
Will AO have another goal celebration up his sleeve!?
CAR- Eric Staal
Staal is usually at his best when he faces Washington.

Projected Goaltenders:
WSH- Jose Theodore (08-09 stats: 28-15-4, 2.81 GAA)
CAR- Cam Ward (Last night vs. NYI: 28 Saves, 4 GA)

Injury Report:
WSH- Donald Brashear (knee, out), Chris Clark (wrist, out), Boyd Gordon (finger, out), Brent Johnson (hip, out)
CAR- Scott Walker (upper body, doubtful)

Game Thoughts:
Carolina is coming on a high note after their 3rd period rally last night against the Isles. It’ll be interesting to see how they respond tonight. Will they have trouble generating much against the Caps, or carry it over and come out flying?? I think the former is more realistic, and that Washington will win their 3rd in a row… but it won’t be easy.

Prediction: Capitals 4, Hurricanes 3 (SO)
The rest of today’s predictions:
Canadiens over Maple Leafs
Rangers over Sabres
Senators over Islanders
Panthers over Blue Jackets
Lightning over Thrashers
Canucks over Coyotes

Playoffs Countdown

We are less than a month away from the Stanley Cup Playoffs.... 26 days to be exact!! Here's your video of the night... enjoy!

Playoff Formula Results (3/20)

EASTERN CONFERENCE
1. Boston Bruins
3/16 Calculation: 56.14
New Result: 55.42
2. New Jersey Devils
3/16 Calculation: 55.48
New Result: 55.05
3. Washington Capitals
3/16 Calculation: 44.44
New Result: 47.58
4. Philadelphia Flyers
3/16 Calculation: 43.56
New Result: 42.15
5. Pittsburgh Penguins
3/16 Calculation: 33.20
New Result: 34.16
6. New York Rangers
3/16 Calculation: 25.62
New Result: 28.43
7. Montreal Canadiens
3/16 Calculation: 24.77
New Result: 25.62
8. Carolina Hurricanes
3/16 Calculation: 22.71
New Result: 24.69
9. Florida Panthers
3/16 Calculation: 30.78
New Result: 32.71
10. Buffalo Sabres
3/16 Calculation: 34.22
New Result: 33.97

WESTERN CONFERENCE
1. Detroit Red Wings
3/16 Calculation: 48.25
New Result: 52.55
2. San Jose Sharks
3/16 Calculation: 60.59
New Result: 59.41
3. Calgary Flames
3/16 Calculation: 35.79
New Result: 40.53
4. Vancouver Canucks
3/16 Calculation: 34.02
New Result: 40.18
5. Chicago Blackhawks
3/16 Calculation: 39.91
New Result: 36.40
6. Columbus Blue Jackets
3/16 Calculation: 26.13
New Result: 27.93
7. Edmonton Oilers
3/16 Calculation: 23.10
New Result: 24.92
8. Nashville Predators
3/16 Calculation: 28.96
New Result: 30.55
9. Minnesota Wild
3/16 Calculation: 29.50
New Result: 30.82
10. Anaheim Ducks
3/16 Calculation: 25.51
New Result: 26.90
11. Dallas Stars
3/16 Calculation: 24.53
New Result: 24.08
12. St. Louis Blues
3/16 Calculation: 27.37
New Result: 26.43