Best Playoffs in Sports are upon us Discusssion

Santacapper

Santacapper

Pretty much a regular
<TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#003366><TD vAlign=top width=120>/16/2009 6:05 PM</TD><TD vAlign=top width=500>Boston Bruins vs Montreal Canadiens</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>361</TD><TD width=300>Boston Bruins </TD><TD width=65> -400 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>362</TD><TD width=300>Montreal Canadiens </TD><TD width=65> +300 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#003366><TD vAlign=top width=120>4/15/2009 6:05 PM</TD><TD vAlign=top width=500>Washington Capitals vs New York Rangers</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>363</TD><TD width=300>Washington Capitals </TD><TD width=65> -320 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>364</TD><TD width=300>New York Rangers </TD><TD width=65> +260 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#003366><TD vAlign=top width=120>4/15/2009 6:35 PM</TD><TD vAlign=top width=500>New Jersey Devils vs Carolina Hurricanes</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>365</TD><TD width=300>New Jersey Devils </TD><TD width=65> -135 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>366</TD><TD width=300>Carolina Hurricanes </TD><TD width=65> +110 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#003366><TD vAlign=top width=120>4/15/2009 6:05 PM</TD><TD vAlign=top width=500>Philadelphia Flyers vs Pittsburgh Penguins</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>367</TD><TD width=300>Philadelphia Flyers </TD><TD width=65> +140 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>368</TD><TD width=300>Pittsburgh Penguins </TD><TD width=65> -165 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#003366><TD vAlign=top width=120>4/16/2009 9:35 PM</TD><TD vAlign=top width=500>San Jose Sharks v Anaheim Ducks</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>369</TD><TD width=300>San Jose Sharks </TD><TD width=65> -300 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>370</TD><TD width=300>Anaheim Ducks </TD><TD width=65> +240 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#003366><TD vAlign=top width=120>4/16/2009 6:05 PM</TD><TD vAlign=top width=500>Detroit Red Wings v Columbus Blue Jackets</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>371</TD><TD width=300>Detroit Red Wings </TD><TD width=65> -700 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>372</TD><TD width=300>Columbus Blue Jackets </TD><TD width=65> +500 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#003366><TD vAlign=top width=120>4/15/2009 9:05 PM</TD><TD vAlign=top width=500>Vancouver Canucks v St Louis Blues</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>373</TD><TD width=300>Vancouver Canucks </TD><TD width=65> -320 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>374</TD><TD width=300>St Louis Blues </TD><TD width=65> +260 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#003366><TD vAlign=top width=120>4/16/2009 7:35 PM</TD><TD vAlign=top width=500>Chicago Blackhawks vs Calgary Flames</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>375</TD><TD width=300>Chicago Blackhawks </TD><TD width=65> -155 </TD><TD width=200> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width=620 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=55>376</TD><TD width=300>Calgary Flames </TD><TD width=65> +130 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
 
Couple intriguing series...

Philly / Pitt being the obvious one...

I dont know what to think of CGY right now, they are going in the wrong direction heading into the playoffs, reminding me of the Rangers a few years back and getting railroaded in the first round.

Speaking of the Rangers, that price is off IMO... Give me Lundqvist over anything the Caps can put out there... Rangers playing good hockey since Avery came to town, you know he'll be in fine form with Ovechkins line. Torts been there before too...
 
Wow.....Caps line has dropped 85 cents since last night. Big money coming in on NYR. Also Blackhawks are up 15 cents.


Played Pens -145 for a couple of units and a small homer play on the Blues +260
 
<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD>BOSTON BRUINS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 53-19-10, 116 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 5-0-1
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1972
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1990
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Mark Recchi (2), Stephane Yelle (2), Aaron Ward (3)

A reason to cheer for the Bruins: The Bruins have been a terrific story all year - sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings for the better part of the season and reaching the 100-point plateau for the 18th time in franchise history. The last time Boston hit the century mark was in 2003-04, when they accumulated 104 points.
What They Bring To The Table: The Bruins opened the 2008-09 campaign as the NHL's top team for the first 50 games and were on course to set a franchise record for points in a season until the club struggled in March. But they finished strong enough to take the conference title and get home ice advantage in the first round. With a 29-6-6 record at home this season, only the Western Conference powerhouse San Jose Sharks had a better home record. Goaltending shouldn't be an issue for the Bruins, as long as Tim Thomas can stay consistent. The Vezina Trophy favourite finished the regular season with a league-best 2.10 goals against average and had the best save percentage in the NHL (.933). Up front, centre Marc Savard led the team in scoring and ranked ninth in the NHL with 88 points. He finished the season on a tear, putting up nine points in the final nine games. Forward David Krejci finished the season with the league's best plus-minus (plus-37), while rookie forward Blake Wheeler finished the season with the league's second-best (plus-36). Defenceman Dennis Wideman finished sixth (plus-32). </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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</TD><TD>MONTREAL CANADIENS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 41-30-11, 93 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 0-5-1
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1993
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1993
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Alex Kovalev (1), Alex Tanguay (1), Mathieu Schneider (1), Patrice Brisebois (1), Mathieu Dandenault (3)

A reason to cheer for the Canadiens: With the Centennial celebration in full swing, no birthday gift would be sweeter to the organization than their 25th Stanley Cup. And with all the circus-type controversy this team has endured over the last few months, a championship would also be the perfect cure for everything that has ailed Canadiens fans.
What They Bring To The Table: Alex Kovalev struggled for a long stretch of the season, but the streaky star found his game again after being lined up with Saku Koivu and Alex Tanguay. The trio quickly became the NHL's hottest line as they powered the Canadiens to an impressive run in the final stretch. While the tandem of Maxim Lapierre and Guillaume Latendresse also made a big impact, the club is waiting for Andrei Kostitsyn and Tomas Plekanec to show that same sort of production on the score sheet. In goal, Carey Price had an up-and-down season and spent some time on IR with an ankle injury. While Jaroslav Halak filled in well for him, both netminders will need to elevate their game in the postseason. With Andrei Markov out of the lineup and Mathieu Schneider fighting off an injury, the Habs lack a healthy power play quarterback who can make that much needed first pass out of their own zone. Mike Komisarek, Josh Gorges and Roman Hamrlik aren't the same type of players and will have to keep the plays as simple as possible at both ends of the ice. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle width=120 rowSpan=2></TD><TD>Statistical keys to the series

- Boston ranked fourth in the league on the power play, with a 23.6% success rate. Montreal ranked 13th at 19.2%.

- Boston ranked 12th in the league in penalty killing, with an 82.4% success rate. Montreal ranked 11th at 82.4%.

- Milan Lucic (262), Zdeno Chara (169) and Aaron Ward (151) are the Bruins' leading hitters.

- Mike Komisarek (191), Tom Kostopoulos (167) and Guillaume Latendresse (140) are the Canadiens' leading hitters.

- Patrice Bergeron is the Bruins' top face-off man -- 54.5%.

- Saku Koivu is the Canadiens' top face-off man -- 54.1%.

- Boston's Marc Savard ranked sixth in the league with 63 assists.

- Boston's Marc Savard tied for ninth in the league with 88 points.

- Boston's David Krejci and Blake Wheeler ranked first and second in the league at plus-37 and plus-36, respectively. Dennis Wideman ranked sixth at plus-32.

- Zdeno Chara led the Bruins with six points in six games against the Canadiens this year.

- Andrei Markov led the Canadiens with four points in five games against the Bruins this year.

- Boston's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Zdeno Chara 3:46
Marc Savard 3:42
Mark Recchi 3:16*
Dennis Wideman 3:13
Michael Ryder 3:05
Patrice Bergeron 3:04
* Recchi's totals include time with Tampa Bay.

- Montreal's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Andrei Markov 5:09
Alex Kovalev 4:13
Alex Tanguay 3:44
Mathieu Schneider 3:39*
Saku Koivu 3:35
Andrei Kostitsyn 3:04
* Schneider's totals include time with Atlanta.

- Boston's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Zdeno Chara 3:21
Dennis Wideman 2:50
P.J. Axelsson 2:30
Andrew Ference 2:24
Patrice Bergeron 2:19
Aaron Ward 2:16

- Montreal's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Michael Komisarek 3:24
Andrei Markov 3:10
Josh Gorges 2:55
Roman Hamrlik 2:49
Glen Metropolit 2:11 *
Christopher Higgins 2:08
* Metropolit's totals include time with Philadelphia.

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
 
If Necessary
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</TD><TD>WASHINGTON CAPITALS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 50-24-8, 108 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 3-0-1
Last Stanley Cup Win: Never
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1998
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Sergei Fedorov (3)

A reason to cheer for the Capitals: If Alexander Ovechkin's energy and celebrations aren't enough to cheer for the Capitals, perhaps the play of Alexander Semin, Nicklas Backstrom and Mike Green can change your opinion. All four players have been at the forefront of the team's success this season, leading the Capitals to first in the Southeast Division for the second consecutive season.
What They Bring To The Table: Last season, Washington climbed from the bottom of the standings and into the playoffs - a success that has carried over to their current campaign. They passed the century mark in points for the first time since the 1999-2000 campaign and passed their record 107-point season in 1985-86. Signed as an unrestricted free last summer, goaltender Jose Theodore has played most of the season between the pipes, putting up a 2.87 GAA and a .900 save percentage. Up front, the goals start and end with Ovechkin. The 50-plus goal wonder ended the regular season as the league's top scorer with 56, becoming the league's first goal-scoring leader in consecutive seasons since Pavel Bure in 2000 and 2001. Offensive defenceman Mike Green has once again been a workhorse on the blue line, with 50-plus points for the second straight season and the best plus-minus among Washington defencemen. The Calgary native also set an NHL record for most single season goals by a defenceman (playing 70 games or fewer) to pass Bobby Orr's mark of 29. Green scored his 30th goal in 63 games. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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</TD><TD>NEW YORK RANGERS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 43-30-9, 95 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 0-3-1
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1994
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1994
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Scott Gomez (2), Chris Drury (1)

A reason to cheer for the Rangers: As the Giants, Yankees and Broadway Blueshirts have shown in the past, there's nothing quite like a ticker tape parade in New York City. There are always high expectations on New York teams in the postseason, and they can even add a bit of swagger to any playoff campaign. And believe it or not, there are hockey fans out there who would love to see Sean Avery hoist that Cup.
What They Bring To The Table: On paper, the Rangers have as much fire power as any team in the league. But the offence has been mediocre at best with the team tied for second last in the league in total goals (tied with the Islanders and in front of the Avalanche). Since firing head coach Tom Renney and replacing him with John Tortorella in February, the Rangers' win-loss record went to 12-9. Not an impressive mark, but given that the club was coming off its tenth loss in 12 games, something had to be done. High profile free agent signings Chris Drury and Scott Gomez were producing at a sub-par rate earlier in the season, but have since turned their game around. The Rangers added Nik Antropov and Derek Morris at the trade deadline and also brought back No. 1 bad boy Sean Avery into the mix. Whether it's on the scoreboard or under his opponent's skin, he could be a big difference maker. In goal, there are few goaltenders in the league better than King Henrik. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle width=120 rowSpan=2></TD><TD>Statistical keys to the series

- Washington ranked second in the league on the power play, with a 25.2% success rate. The Rangers ranked 29th at 13.9%.

- Washington ranked 17th in the league in penalty killing, with an 80.6% success rate. The Rangers ranked first at 87.8%.

- Alexander Ovechkin (243), Milan Jurcina (157) and John Erskine (128) are the Capitals' leading hitters.

- Ryan Callahan (265), Brandon Dubinsky (251) and Daniel Girardi (206) are the Rangers' leading hitters.

- David Steckel is the Capitals' top face-off man -- 57.9%.

- Brandon Dubinsky is the Rangers' top face-off man -- 53.6%.

- Washington's Alexander Ovechkin ranked first in the league with 56 goals.

- Washington's Nicklas Backstrom tied for third in the league with 66 assists. Alexander Ovechkin tied for tenth with 54 assists.

- Washington's Alexander Ovechkin ranked second in the league with 110 points. Nicklas Backstrom tied for ninth with 88 points.

- Washington's Alexander Ovechkin tied for second in the league with 19 power play goals. Mike Green ranked fourth with 18 power play goals.

- Washington's Alexander Ovechkin led the league with 46 power play points.

- Washington's Alexander Ovechkin led the league with 1.39 points per game.

- Washington's Alexander Ovechkin led the league with 107 giveaways.

- Washington's Alexander Ovechkin tied for third in the league with 10 game-winning goals.

- Washington's Alexander Ovechkin ranked first in the league with 528 shots on goal.

- Alexander Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom led the Capitals with five points in four games against the Rangers this year.

- Ryan Callahan led the Rangers with four points in four games against the Capitals this year.

- Washington's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Alexander Ovechkin 5:24
Mike Green 5:22
Alexander Semin 4:00
Nicklas Backstrom 3:51
Sergei Fedorov 2:50
Brooks Laich 2:38

- New York Rangers' leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Scott Gomez 3:55
Wade Redden 3:37
Chris Drury 3:34
Michal Rozsival 3:26
Markus Naslund 3:17
Nikolai Zherdev 3:00

- Washington's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Tom Poti 4:22
David Steckel 3:48
Boyd Gordon 3:39
Jeff Schultz 3:18
Brooks Laich 2:57
Shaone Morrisonn 2:57

- New York Rangers' leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Blair Betts 2:59
Marc Staal 2:56
Fredrik Sjostrom 2:42
Daniel Girardi 2:26
Chris Drury 2:25
Michal Rozsival 2:19

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</TD><TD>NEW JERSEY DEVILS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 51-27-4, 106 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 1-3
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2003
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 2003
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Patrik Elias (2), Jamie Langenbrunner (2), Brian Gionta (1), Brian Rolston (1), John Madden (2), Colin White (2), Brendan Shanahan (3), Jay Pandolfo (2), Michael Rupp (1), Bobby Holik (2), Martin Brodeur (3)

A reason to cheer for the Devils: Led by Lou Lamoriello in the front office, the Devils have winning on their minds 24/7. Franchise netminder Martin Brodeur celebrated his record-setting 552nd career win late this season, passing childhood hero Patrick Roy to become the NHL's all-time leader in wins by a goaltender. Another Stanley Cup on his resume makes the comparison between Brodeur and Roy all the more fun.
What They Bring To The Table: With Roy's win record on his mind, Brodeur was on a tear when he returned from injury. But once the record was broken, his game went south as the club struggled down the stretch. If Brodeur gets back in the zone, they could be the team to beat in the East. Winger Zach Parise brought his play up another level this season, leading the team in goals and points and finishing just five goals shy of becoming the club's first-ever 50-goal scorer. Patrik Elias, Jamie Langenbrunner, Travis Zajac and Brian Gionta have also been big contributors on offence while Paul Martin led all Devils defencemen with a 33-point season and a plus- 21 rating. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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</TD><TD>CAROLINA HURRICANES

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 45-30-7, 97 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 3-1
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2006
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 2006
Last Postseason Appearance: 2006
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Ray Whitney (1), Rod Brind'Amour (1), Matt Cullen (1), Erik Cole (1), Chad LaRose (1), Anton Babchuk (1), Niclas Wallin (1), Frantisek Kaberle (1), Cam Ward (1)

A reason to cheer for the Hurricanes: Carolina was a great story when they won the Cup in 2006, but everything went downhill from there as the club missed the postseason for the next two seasons. But with head coach Paul Maurice returning behind the bench, the Hurricanes were one of the hottest teams down the final stretch and look like a contender in the wide-open Eastern Conference.
What They Bring To The Table: A bust in Edmonton with 27 points in 63 games, Erik Cole returned to Carolina in a trade deadline deal and brought back instant chemistry. Reunited with Eric Staal on the top line, Cole should be one of several big weapons up front. In net, Cam Ward is also on his game, breaking the franchise record with 39 victories this season and finishing 14-4-2 over the last 20 games. A Conn Smythe Trophy winner in 2006, Ward has been a workhorse in goal, building a 10-1-2 record in March and finishing the season with a 2.44 goals-against average and a .916 save percentage. Up front, Eric Staal led all Hurricanes in goals (40) while Tuomo Ruutu set a career high with 26 goals. On the blueline, Joe Corvo led all Hurricanes defenceman in points (38) while Anton Babchuk had a career season, posting 16 goals (best among all 'Canes blueliners) and 19 assists with a plus- 13 rating. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle width=120 rowSpan=2></TD><TD>Statistical keys to the series

- New Jersey ranked 15th in the league on the power play, with an 18.9% success rate. Carolina ranked 18th at 18.7%.

- New Jersey ranked 20th in the league in penalty killing, with a 79.9% success rate. Carolina ranked 19th at 80.4%.

- Michael Rupp (136), Bobby Holik (135) and David Clarkson (134) are the Devils' leading hitters.

- Tuomu Ruutu (228), Erik Cole (180) and Tim Gleason (171) are the Hurricanes' leading hitters. Cole's totals include games with Edmonton.

- Bobby Holik is the Devils' top face-off man -- 59.3%.

- Rod Brind'Amour is the Hurricanes' top face-off man -- 61.0%.

- New Jersey's Zach Parise ranked third in the league with 45 goals.

- Carolina's Eric Staal tied for fifth in the league with 40 goals.

- New Jersey's Travis Zajac tied for fourth in the league at plus-33 and Zach Parise tied for eighth in the league at plus-30.

- New Jersey's Zach Parise and Carolina's Eric Staal tied for eighth in the league with 14 power play goals.

- Carolina's Eric Staal tied for seventh in the league with eight game-winning goals.

- Carolina's Eric Staal ranked second in the league with 372 shots on goal. New Jersey's Zach Parise ranked third in the league with 364 shots on goal.

- Patrik Elias and Brian Rolston led the Devils with four points in four games against the Hurricanes this year.

- Rod Brind'Amour led the Hurricanes with six points in four games against the Devils this year.

- New Jersey's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Zach Parise 3:41
Patrik Elias 3:34
Paul Martin 3:20
Jamie Langenbrunner 3:19
Travis Zajac 3:16
Brian Rolston 3:02

- Carolina's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Joe Corvo 4:30
Eric Staal 4:15
Joni Pitkanen 4:02
Ray Whitney 3:54
Tuomo Ruutu 3:44
Sergei Samsonov 3:18

- New Jersey's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Paul Martin 3:29
John Madden 3:12
Niclas Havelid 3:11*
Bryce Salvador 3:05
Colin White 3:05
Johnny Oduya 2:51
* Niclas Havelid's totals include time with Atlanta.

- Carolina's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Tim Gleason 2:47
Dennis Seidenberg 2:36
Niclas Wallin 2:10
Brandon Sutter 2:05
Jussi Jokinen 2:03*
Joe Corvo 2:01
* Jokinen's totals include time with Tampa Bay.

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
 
If Necessary
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</TD><TD>PHILADELPHIA FLYERS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 44-27-11, 99 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 2-4
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1975
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1997
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Mike Knuble (1)

A reason to cheer for the Flyers: The Flyers finished last in the Eastern Conference two years ago with 56 points, they then improved to sixth last year with 95 points, and this season surpassed the 100-point mark. GM Paul Holmgren has turned the ship around very quickly in Philly and all they need is a long, successful playoff run to make it all worthwhile.
What They Bring To The Table: The Flyers are a team loaded with depth on offense. They're one of just two clubs in the NHL to have four players score 30 or more goals in a season (Detroit is the other), with Jeff Carter leading the way. Captain Mike Richards, one of the premier two-way players in the league, led all Flyers with 84 points (12th in the league) and is one of the league's top penalty killers and shorthanded scorers. Simon Gagne returned to form after battling back from a season-ending concussion last year, while Daniel Briere - limited to 25 games this season because of groin problems - is always an offensive threat as long as he's healthy and back on his game. Goaltending has been a big issue with the Flyers, who will likely lean on Martin Biron. The former Buffalo Sabre hadn't even started a playoff game prior to last season, but had a solid postseason campaign and will be looking to build on that. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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</TD><TD>PITTSBURGH PENGUINS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 45-28-9, 99 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 4-2
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1992
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 2008
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Chris Kunitz (1), Bill Guerin (1), Petr Sykora (1), Ruslan Fedotenko (1), Craig Adams (1)

A reason to cheer for the Penguins: The Penguins were just shy of capturing their third Stanley Cup in franchise history last year and nothing short of finishing the job this spring will be acceptable. Those high hopes are remarkable considering that just a couple of months ago, pundits were wondering if this team would even make the playoffs. With new coach Dan Bylsma at the helm and Evgeni Malkin making his case for the Hart Trophy (finishing first in league scoring and leading all Penguins players in scoring for the second consecutive season), Pittsburgh is back in the contenders' conversation.
What They Bring To The Table: While trade deadline acquisitions Chris Kunitz and veteran winger Bill Guerin don't have the same level of talent that Marian Hossa brought last year, they do add plenty of grit and experience while filling the scoring void on the wing that the club needed most of the season. The Penguins also have solid character players like Pascal Dupuis and Maxime Talbot, who are always ready to provide energy and support for the blueliners. The club had to give up a good offensive defenceman in Ryan Whitney, but have enough depth with the return of power play specialist Sergei Gonchar and the emergence of young Kris Letang. Goaltending is everything in the postseason, and Marc-Andre Fleury should be solid in goal if he builds on last spring's postseason run. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle width=120 rowSpan=2></TD><TD>Statistical keys to the series

- Pittsburgh ranked 20th in the league on the power play, with a 17.2% success rate. Philadelphia ranked sixth at 22.5%.

- Pittsburgh ranked eighth in the league in penalty killing, with an 82.7% success rate. Philadelphia ranked sixth at 83.0%.

- Brooks Orpik (309), Matt Cooke (262) and Chris Kunitz (207) are the Penguins' leading hitters. Kunitz's totals include games with Anaheim.

- Andrew Alberts (157), Daniel Carcillo (151) and Mike Richards (147) are the Flyers' leading hitters. Carcillo's totals include games with Phoenix.

- Sidney Crosby is the Penguins' top face-off man -- 51.3%.

- Mike Richards is the Flyers' top face-off man -- 49.0%.

- Philadelphia's Jeff Carter ranked second in the league with 46 goals.

- Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby ranked first and second in the league with 78 and 70 assists, respectively.

- Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby ranked first and third in the league with 113 and 103 points, respectively.

- Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin tied for eighth in the league with 14 power play goals.

- Philadelphia's Mike Richards led the league with seven shorthanded goals. Simon Gagne and Jeff Carter tied for fourth with four shorthanded goals.

- Philadelphia's Jeff Carter led the league with 12 game-winning goals. Pittsburgh's Petr Sykora ranked third in the league with 10 game-winning goals.

- Philadelphia's Jeff Carter ranked fourth in the league with 342 shots on goal. Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin ranked 10th with 290 shots on goal.

- Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin led the league with 94 takeaways.

- Sidney Crosby led the Penguins with nine points in six games against the Flyers this year.

- Jeff Carter led the Flyers with eight points in six games against the Penguins this year.

- Pittsburgh's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Sergei Gonchar 6:14
Evgeni Malkin 5:33
Sidney Crosby 5:22
Bill Guerin 3:55*
Petr Sykora 3:44
Kristopher Letang 3:35
* Guerin's totals include time with the N.Y. Islanders.

- Philadelphia's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Kimmo Timonen 4:04
Daniel Briere 3:22
Mike Richards 3:20
Simon Gagne 3:12
Mike Knuble 2:54
Jeff Carter 2:43
Braydon Coburn 2:43

- Pittsburgh's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Rob Scuderi 3:47
Jordan Staal 3:31
Hal Gill 3:10
Mark Eaton 2:45
Pascal Dupuis 2:40
Maxime Talbot 2:40

- Philadelphia's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Kimmo Timonen 4:39
Braydon Coburn 3:50
Mike Richards 3:12
Jeff Carter 3:03
Ryan Parent 2:36
Andrew Alberts 2:28

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</TD><TD>SAN JOSE SHARKS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 53-18-11, 117 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 4-2-0
Last Stanley Cup Win: None
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: None
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Dan Boyle (1), Rob Blake (1), Travis Moen (1), Brad Lukowich (1), Kent Huskins (1), Claude Lemieux (4)

A reason to cheer for the Sharks: Considered perennial underachievers in the playoffs, could this be the year that the Sharks finally break through in the post-season? After arriving from the Motor City, Todd McLellan has brought a brand new winning attitude to the Silicon Valley. This is the best opportunity that Joe Thornton will ever get to shake off the label of playoff underachiever.
What They Bring To The Table: The Sharks bring a well-balanced attack as they get offensive contributions from all four lines as well as the defence. The Sharks made a conscious decision this past offseason to bring in proven winners. The blueline was restocked with Dan Boyle, Rob Blake and Brad Lukowich, all of whom have already captured a ring. In addition, the Sharks gave one of the top playoff performers of the past 20 years - Claude Lemieux - a shot to bring some additional veteran leadership to the team. At the trade deadline, the Sharks acquired a pair of players in Kent Huskins and Travis Moen, who were critical to the Anaheim Ducks' Stanley Cup run just two years ago, and ironically will have the opportunity to try to derail the Ducks this time around. San Jose also has a very nice mix of young players to go along with their vets. Players like Devin Setoguchi, Ryane Clowe, Christian Erhoff and Marc-Edouard Vlasic all enjoyed excellent campaigns and fit it well with the Sharks' team mentality. The team gets solid goaltending from Evgeni Nabokov, who often gets overshadowed in the discussions of the top goalies in the league because of his West Coast area code. Several players will be under the microscope during this series. Can Joe Thornton finally have a post- season worthy of his many regular season accomplishments? Can Patrick Marleau continue his bounce-back season with a big effort in the playoffs? Will Jeremy Roenick finally get a ring? After a series of playoff disappointments, the Sharks have as much to prove as any team in the league. They will be under an immense amount of pressure to show that they are not simply a regular season wonder. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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</TD><TD>ANAHEIM DUCKS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 42-33-7, 91 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 2-4-0
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2007
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 2007
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Ryan Getzlaf (1), Corey Perry (1), Scott Niedermayer (4), Teemu Selanne (1), Chris Pronger (1), Rob Niedermayer (1), Todd Marchant (1), George Parros (1), Drew Miller (1), Ryan Carter (1), Bret Hedican (1), Francois Beauchemin (1), JS Giguere (1)

A reason to cheer for the Ducks: Because Scott Niedermayer's thumb is jealous of all the fingers on his hand that wear Stanley Cup rings. The current edition of the Ducks is not that different to the team that won it all just two years ago. They are big, mean, tough, battle proven and are the type of team that no one wants to face in the first round.
What They Bring To The Table: The Ducks have a great mixture of skill and toughness. Their two top scorers - Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry - are also among the team's leaders in penalty minutes. The Ducks can score with anyone in the league thanks to their potent power play. They have Niedermayer at quarterback, Chris Pronger launching bombs from the point and Perry, Getzlaf, Teemu Selanne and rookie Bobby Ryan to bang pucks home. As one of the most penalized teams in the league, Anaheim will really need to be disciplined in the post-season - where a bad penalty can cost a team a series. Fortunately for the Ducks, they have a both a coach in Randy Carlyle and a goaltender in J.S. Giguere who have won it all before and won't be in awe of their surroundings. While Giguere didn't enjoy his best statistical season, he is a former Conn Smythe Trophy winner that has the ability to steal a game or a series if necessary. Should he falter, Jonas Hiller is among the top backups in the league and will be ready to step in if needed. The Ducks are getting hot at the right time - if they can re-capture some of that magic of two seasons ago, they could really cause their opponents some problems. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle width=120 rowSpan=2></TD><TD>Statistical keys to the series

- San Jose ranked third in the league on the power play, with a 24.2% success rate. Anaheim ranked fifth at 23.6%.

- San Jose ranked fifth in the league in penalty killing, with an 83.3% success rate. Anaheim ranked 23rd at 79.7%.

- Douglas Murray (175), Travis Moen (171) and Mike Grier (147) are the Sharks' leading hitters. Moen's totals include games with Anaheim.

- Ryan Getzlaf (134), Corey Perry (109) and James Wisniewski (90) are the Ducks' leading hitters. Wisniewski's totals include games with Chicago.

- Marcel Goc is the Sharks' top face-off man -- 58.2%.

- Erik Christensen is the Ducks' top face-off man -- 55.7%. Christensen's totals include games with Atlanta.

- Anaheim's Ryan Getzlaf tied for third in the league with 66 assists. San Jose's Joe Thornton ranked seventh in the league with 61 assists.

- Anaheim's Ryan Getzlaf tied for sixth in the league with 91 points.

- Anaheim's Teemu Selanne tied for fifth in the league with 16 power play goals.

- Anaheim's Corey Perry tied for seventh in the league with eight game-winning goals.

- Jonathan Cheechoo and Christian Ehrhoff led the Sharks with four points in five games against the Ducks this year. Dan Boyle also had four points in six games.

- Ryan Getzlaf led the Ducks with six points in six games against the Sharks this year.

- San Jose's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Dan Boyle 4:39
Patrick Marleau 3:59
Joe Thornton 3:43
Ryane Clowe 3:05
Joe Pavelski 3:04
Rob Blake 3:01
Christian Ehrhoff 3:01

- Anaheim's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Ryan Whitney 4:27*
Chris Pronger 4:27
Scott Niedermayer 4:00
Ryan Getzlaf 3:58
Teemu Selanne 3:36
Corey Perry 3:26
* Whitney's totals include time with Pittsburgh.

- San Jose's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Marc-Edouard Vlasic 2:39
Patrick Marleau 2:33
Rob Blake 2:30
Mike Grier 2:29
Travis Moen 2:21*
Joe Pavelski 2:13
* Moen's totals include games with Anaheim.

- Anaheim's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Scott Niedermayer 4:36
Chris Pronger 3:55
Todd Marchant 3:47
Rob Niedermayer 3:09
James Wisniewski 2:16 *
Ryan Whitney 1:42 *
* Wisniewski's totals include time with Chicago; Whitney's totals include time with Pittsburgh.


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</TD><TD>DETROIT RED WINGS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 51-21-10, 112 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 3-2-1
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2008
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 2008
Last Postseason Appearance: 2008
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Pavel Datsyuk (2), Henrik Zetterberg (1), Brian Rafalski (3), Jiri Hudler(1), Johan Franzen (1), Nicklas Lidstrom (4), Nicklas Kronwall (1), Mikael Samuelsson (1), Dan Cleary (1), Valtteri Filppula (1), Tomas Holmstrom (4), Tomas Kopecky (1), Kris Draper (4), Brett Lebda (1), Andreas Lilja (1), Brad Stuart (1), Kirk Maltby (4), Aaron Downey (1), Darren McCarty (4), Darren Helm (1), Chris Chelios (3), Chris Osgood (3)

A reason to cheer for the Red Wings: No team has repeated as Stanley Cup champions since…well, the Red Wings in 1997 and 1998. Virtually every member of the team owns a Stanley Cup ring, the exceptions being offseason acquisitions Marian Hossa and Ty Conklin. Ironically, both played for the Pittsburgh Penguins last season and were on hand to watch the Wings celebrate their 11th Stanley Cup title in franchise history. If the Wings do end up winning it all again, will the ageless Chris Chelios retire?
What They Bring To The Table: Thanks to their victory last year, the Wings - more than any other team - know what it takes to win. Their veteran core of Datsyuk, Lidstrom, Rafalski, Holmstrom and Osgood all have multiple Stanley Cup rings. They are able to roll out four lines every night with every single player understanding their role on the team. Head coach Mike Babcock has done a fantastic job keeping his team focused this season when there could have been a serious Stanley Cup hangover. The Wings' forwards are as good a group as you will find in the league with no fewer than five 20 goal scorers. What truly separates Detroit from the pack is their defensive unit. Led by perennial Norris Trophy candidate Nicklas Lidstrom, the Wings blueline is absolutely stacked with a nice mix of puck movers and bangers. They are also battle tested thanks to last year's championship run. The Wings' one weak link may well be their goaltending, as starter Chris Osgood struggled through his worst season in recent memory. Babcock has stood by his keeper, even when he was being severely outplayed by backup Conklin. Babcock knows that 'Ozzie' has been there before and knows how to win. It remains to be seen if he can repay his coach's confidence in the playoffs. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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</TD><TD>COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 41-31-10, 92 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 2-3-1
Last Stanley Cup Win: None
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: None
Last Postseason Appearance: None
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Jason Williams (1), Fredrik Modin (1), Mike Commodore (1)

A reason to cheer for the Blue Jackets: If for no other reason, Columbus has qualified for the post-season for the first time in franchise history after entering the league in the nine years ago. Coming into the year, hopes were high that the Jackets would at least be in contention for a playoff berth. But thanks to the stellar play of rookie netminder Steve Mason and a career year from Rick Nash, Columbus has finally qualified for the big dance.
What They Bring To The Table: Having never made the playoffs before, the Blue Jackets have to prove that they are not simply just happy to be there. After clinching their spot in the post-season the team went into the tank in the last week of the season. Several of the Jackets key players have little or no post-season experience, but they do have an excellent head coach in Ken Hitchcock, who led the Dallas Stars to the Stanley Cup in 1999. "Hitch" will make sure that the young Jackets are mentally prepared for what they are about to face. Management did an excellent job this off-season in bringing in players who have had some success in the playoffs at the NHL level. One of their biggest acquisitions, R.J. Umberger, was spectacular for the Flyers during their Conference final run last season. Defenceman Mike Commodore, who enjoyed a career year, reached the final in back-to-back seasons with Calgary and Carolina. Deadline day pick-up Antoine Vermette also reached the final with the Senators two years ago, while Mike Peca was crucial to the championship hopes of the Buffalo Sabres in 1999 and the Edmonton Oilers in 2006. The Jackets' biggest strength remains in net, where Steve Mason has been a revelation leading the league in shutouts in his rookie season. A hot goaltender can single-handedly win a series for a team and few goalies have been as hot as Mason. While he has never faced the pressure of the NHL playoffs before, he has plenty of big-game experience having led Canada to a gold medal at the 2008 World Junior Hockey Championship - where he was named tournament MVP. If he is able to get in the zone, the Blue Jackets could really make some noise in the playoff picture. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle width=120 rowSpan=2></TD><TD>Statistical keys to the series

- Detroit ranked first in the league on the power play, with a 25.5% success rate. Columbus ranked 30th at 12.7%.

- Detroit ranked 25th in the league in penalty killing, with a 78.3% success rate. Columbus ranked 13th at 82.1%.

- Brad Stuart (157), Tomas Kopecky (109) and Daniel Cleary (107) are the Red Wings' leading hitters.

- Mike Commodore (201), Jan Hejda (168) and Jared Boll (153) are Columbus' leading hitters.

- Kris Draper is the Red Wings' top face-off man -- 60.3%.

- Antoine Vermette is the Blue Jackets' top face-off man -- 57.7%. Vermette's totals include games with Ottawa.

- Detroit's Marian Hossa and Columbus' Rick Nash tied for fifth in the league with 40 goals.

- Detroit's Pavel Datsyuk ranked fifth in the league with 65 assists.

- Detroit's Pavel Datsyuk ranked fourth in the league with 97 points.

- Detroit's Pavel Datsyuk ranked third in the league at plus-34. Nicklas Lidstrom ranked seventh at plus-31.

- Columbus' Rick Nash tied for second in the league with five shorthanded goals.

- Detroit's Marian Hossa and Johan Franzen tied for seventh in the league with eight game-winning goals.

- Pavel Datsyuk led the Red Wings with eight points in five games against Columbus this year.

- Rick Nash led the Blue Jackets with six points in six games against the Red Wings this year.

- Detroit's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Nicklas Lidstrom 3:55
Brian Rafalski 3:45
Henrik Zetterberg 3:28
Pavel Datsyuk 3:18
Tomas Holmstrom 3:17
Marian Hossa 3:03

- Columbus' leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Kristian Huselius 3:54
Fedor Tyutin 3:47
Rick Nash 3:38
Kris Russell 3:18
Jason Williams 3:13*
R.J. Umberger 2:54
* Jason Williams' totals include time with Atlanta.

- Detroit's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Nicklas Lidstrom 3:27
Andreas Lilja 3:20
Brad Stuart 2:49
Niklas Kronwall 2:30
Kris Draper 2:05
Daniel Cleary 2:01

- Columbus' leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Jan Hejda 3:58
Mike Commodore 3:44
Rostislav Klesla 3:08
Antoine Vermette 3:01*
Manny Malhotra 2:49
Fedor Tyutin 2:37
* Antoine Vermette's totals include time with Ottawa.

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</TD><TD>VANCOUVER CANUCKS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 45-27-10, 100 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 2-2-0
Last Stanley Cup Win: None
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1994
Last Postseason Appearance: 2007
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: None

A reason to cheer for the Canucks: Along with the Calgary Flames, the Canucks present the best opportunity to bring the Stanley Cup back to Canada for the first time in 16 years. They have terrific goaltending, a solid, gritty defensive unit and depth at forward. It would also be quite a spectacle to see the reaction of Maple Leafs fans if Mats Sundin captured the Cup after only half a season on the West Coast.
What They Bring To The Table: In Roberto Luongo, the Canucks have one of the top goaltenders in the world. He is ready ready to take the next step in his career and lead a team to the promised land. 'Bobby Lou' is the type of netminder that can single-handedly win a playoff series by himself. He would also like to cement his position with the 2010 Canadian Olympic team by adding a successful post-season run to his resume. As great as Luongo is, the Canucks are far from a one-man show. They have a good balance of puck movers and bangers on the blue line and an extremely quick group of forwards. What they don't have is anyone who has been there before, as not a single player on their roster has hoisted the Stanley Cup. That lack of experience could ultimately cost them in the long run. While several Canucks are enjoying breakout campaigns (Ryan Kesler, Alex Burrows, Alex Edler), few have been tested in the post-season. It will be a real baptism by fire once the puck drops and every single shift is enormous. While the Canucks cannot be completely happy with the return on their investment in Mast Sundin, he is the type of player that raises his game on the biggest stage. This is likely his best and last shot at a championship, look for him to come up big when it means the most. This post-season could also be the defining moment of the Sedin brothers' careers. As they both approach unrestricted free agency, they will need to take their games to a new level if they hope to receive maximum compensation come July 1. An average, or - heaven forbid - poor performance in the playoffs could end up costing the twins millions in potential earnings. The future is now for the Canucks and anything short of a deep playoff run will be seen as a failure. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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</TD><TD>ST. LOUIS BLUES

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 41-31-10, 92 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 2-2-0
Last Stanley Cup Win: None
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1970
Last Postseason Appearance: 2004
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Andy McDonald (1), Dan Hinote (1), Manny Legace (1)

A reason to cheer for the Blues: There may be no better story this season than what has occurred in the Gateway City. Heading into the season, most predicted the Blues to battle the Islanders for the league's worst record. When they lost blue chip defenceman Erik Johnson prior to the season to a freak golf cart injury, it appeared that the writing was on the wall - and it only got worse. Veterans Paul Kariya, Eric Brewer and Andy McDonald all missed extended stretches and the team appeared to hit rock bottom when goaltender Manny Legace injured his ankle tripping on a carpet laid out for Republican Vice-Presidential nominee Sarah Palin prior to a game. While the Blues had every reason to play dead, they persevered and got better as the season went on. The fact that they were in a playoff race at all is a minor miracle - everything from here on in is icing on the cake.</STRONG>
What They Bring To The Table: The team has exceeded all expectations by reaching the post-season, so the Blues could be forgiven if they are just happy to be here. That however, is not the team's style. What they lack in skill and star-power they more than make up for with dedication, hard work and team-wide defensive responsibility. The Blues will likely live and die in the post-season on special teams - they own the third best penalty killing percentage at 83.8 percent and a top 10 power play unit, firing at a 20.5 percent clip. While they remain a largely anonymous bunch, there is reason to be excited thanks to the breakout campaigns by their young forwards. Brad Boyes may be one of the best kept secrets in the league, setting a career-high in points while hitting the 30 goal plateau for the second straight season. David Backes, David Perron and rookies Patrik Berglund and T.J. Oshie all offer additional offensive pop, while veterans Keith Tkachuk and Andy McDonald round out a well-balanced attack. Chris Mason has been a revelation in net for St. Louis after taking over the number one position from former All-Star Manny Legace, however Mason lacks Legace's playoff experience. While Mason got his post-season feet wet with the Predators in 2006, Legace captured a Cup with the Wings in 2002. What might be the Blues' ultimate undoing is how hard they had to work to make it in to the 'Big Dance.' With all that energy expended down the stretch, will the young Blues have anything left in the tank when the games mean their most? Even if they get knocked out early, this season has to be considered an enormous success.</STRONG> </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle width=120 rowSpan=2></TD><TD>Statistical keys to the series

- Vancouver ranked 17th in the league on the power play, with an 18.8% success rate. St. Louis ranked 8th at 20.5%.

- Vancouver ranked 16th in the league in penalty killing, with an 81.4% success rate. St. Louis ranked third at 83.8%.

- Steve Bernier (146), Kevin Bieksa (119) and Darcy Hordichuk (112) are the Canucks' leading hitters.

- David Backes (204), Brad Winchester (127) and Barret Jackman (124) are the Blues' leading hitters.

- Kyle Wellwood is the Canucks' top face-off man -- 57.5%.

- Jay McClement is the Blues' top face-off man -- 52.1%.

- Vancouver's Henrik Sedin ranked eighth in the league with 60 assists.

- Vancouver's Willie Mitchell tied for ninth in the league at plus-29.

- St. Louis' Brad Boyes tied for fifth in the league with 16 power play goals.

- Vancouver's Alex Burrows tied for fourth in the league with four shorthanded goals.

- St. Louis's Brad Boyes ranked second in the league with 11 game-winning goals. Vancouver's Henrik Sedin tied for seventh in the league with eight game-winning goals.



- Daniel Sedin and Henrik Sedin led the Canucks with five points in four games against the Blues this year.

- Patrik Berglund led the Blues with six points in four games against the Canucks this year.

- Vancouver's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Henrik Sedin 4:01
Daniel Sedin 3:59
Kevin Bieksa 3:53
Pavol Demitra 3:33
Alexander Edler 3:28
Mats Sundin 3:24

- St. Louis's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Brad Boyes 4:20
Paul Kariya 4:14
Keith Tkachuk 4:10
Andy McDonald 3:54
Carlo Colaiacovo 3:27*
Patrik Berglund 3:14
* Carlo Colaiacovo's totals include time with Toronto.

- Vancouver's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Willie Mitchell 4:15
Ryan Kesler 3:19
Ryan Johnson 3:13
Ossi Vaananen 3:01*
Alex Burrows 2:57
Sami Salo 2:49
* Ossi Vaananen's totals include time with Philadelphia.

- St. Louis's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Barret Jackman 4:23
Jay McClement 3:50
Jay McKee 3:18
Roman Polak 2:57
Mike Weaver 2:53
Dan Hinote 2:32

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</TD><TD>CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 46-24-12, 104 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 4-0-0
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1961
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1992
Last Postseason Appearance: 2002
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Andrew Ladd (1), Sammy Pahlsson (1), Nikolai Khabibulin (1)

A reason to cheer for the Blackhawks: The re-emergence of hockey as a major sporting presence in the past year in the Windy City has been nothing short of stunning. The once apathetic fan base has become re-vitalized, thanks in large part to John McDonough and Rocky Wirtz. In addition, the Hawks are an exciting young team that loves to attack with a pair of charismatic superstars in Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. They might not win it all, but they will be fun to watch.
What They Bring To The Table: The transformation of the Blackhawks organization over the past year has been remarkable. The once cavernous United Centre is now packed to the rafters with rabid fans who have waited patiently for their team to return to respectability. The team on the ice has not disappointed, earning their first playoff berth in seven seasons. The Blackhawks can throw out a plethora of scoring options as Kane, Toews, Martin Havlat, Patrick Sharp and Kris Versteeg all broke the 20-goal barrier. Chicago gets plenty of offensive contributions from their blue line, thanks to the offensive instincts of Brian Campbell, Duncan Keith, Cam Barker and Dustin Byfuglien. Also working in the Hawks' favour is the fact that they have a playoff-tested goaltender in Nikolai Khabibulin, who captured the Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2004. While the Blackhawks' youth movement is extremely talented, they are not exactly battle tested. The majority of their key players have little or no NHL playoff experience. The trade with the Ducks that saw Chicago acquire Sammy Pahlsson was a masterstroke as his valuable experience gained in Anaheim's Stanley Cup run will be crucial for the green Hawks. This does not appear to be a team that is ready to lift Lord Stanley's chalice, but they could be a very tough out. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

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</TD><TD>CALGARY FLAMES

Team Page | Roster | Stats

Regular Season Record: 46-30-6, 98 pts
Head-to-Head Record: 0-3-1
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1989
Last Stanley Cup Final Appearance: 1989
Last Postseason Appearance: 2004
Players with Stanley Cup Rings: Cory Sarich (1), Andre Roy (1)

A reason to cheer for the Flames: No Canadian team has claimed the Stanley Cup since the Canadiens accomplished the feat in 1993. This Flames team may well be Canada's best shot at bringing the Cup back where it belongs. After coming so close in 2004, it would be poetic justice to see Jarome Iginla raise the Cup over his head at season's end. In addition after having his summers off for the past decade, Olli Jokinen will finally make his playoff debut.
What They Bring To The Table: Calgary's top line of Iginla, Mike Cammalleri and the newly-acquired Jokinen are as good as any in the NHL. They have speed, power, play-making abilities and they can put the puck in the net. While the Flames may be a little top heavy, their role players can all chip in with the occasional goal. That depth of scoring will come in handy in the post-season as teams focus on the top line. While Dion Phaneuf has not had the season he was hoping for, the Flames as a defensive unit are enjoying a great season. Robyn Regehr, who has always been tough as nails, has developed into one of the top shutdown defenders in the league. Goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff is among the elite netminders in the NHL, but once again was forced to play more than 70 games this season and could wear down if the Flames make a deep run. This is also an opportunity for head coach Mike Keenan to re-establish himself as one of the top coaching minds in the league. Keenan-coached teams have only made it out of the first round once since he led the New York Rangers to the Stanley Cup in 1994. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

<TABLE><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=middle width=120 rowSpan=2></TD><TD>Statistical keys to the series

- Chicago ranked 12th in the league on the power play, with a 19.3% success rate. Calgary ranked 21st at 17.0%.

- Chicago ranked 18th in the league in penalty killing, with an 80.6% success rate. Calgary ranked fourth at 83.4%.

- Brent Seabrook (224), Dustin Byfuglien (169) and Troy Brouwer (125) are the Blackhawks' leading hitters.

- Dion Phaneuf (159), Cory Sarich (134) and Curtis Glencross (123) are the Flames' leading hitters.

- Jonathan Toews is the Blackhawks' top face-off man -- 54.7%.

- Mike Cammalleri is the Flames' top face-off man -- 60.3%.

- Calgary's Mike Cammalleri tied for ninth in the league with 39 goals.

- Calgary's Jarome Iginla tied for tenth in the league with 54 assists.

- Calgary's Jarome Iginla ranked eighth in the league with 89 points.

- Chicago's Evgeni Malkin tied for eighth in the league with 14 power play goals.

- Chicago's Duncan Keith tied for fourth in the league at plus-33. Martin Havlat was tied for ninth at plus-29.

- Calgary's Mike Cammalleri tied for second in the league with 19 power play goals.

- Chicago's Kris Versteeg tied for fourth in the league with four shorthanded goals.

- Martin Havlat and Andrew Ladd led the Blackhawks with six points in four games against the Flames this year.

- Todd Bertuzzi, Jarome Iginla and Rene Bourque led the Flames with three points in four games against the Blackhawks this year.

- Chicago's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Brian Campbell 4:28
Patrick Kane 4:10
Jonathan Toews 3:59
Patrick Sharp 3:51
Cam Barker 3:24
Martin Havlat 3:07

- Calgary's leaders in power play ice time (per game):
Dion Phaneuf 5:34
Jarome Iginla 4:54
Adrian Aucoin 4:14
Olli Jokinen 4:04*
Todd Bertuzzi 4:03
Mike Cammalleri 4:03
* Jokinen's totals include time with Phoenix.

- Chicago's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Samuel Pahlsson 4:11*
Brent Seabrook 3:30
Duncan Keith 3:29
Colin Fraser 2:57
Brent Sopel 2:44
Dave Bolland 2:17
* Pahlsson's totals include time with Anaheim.

- Calgary's leaders in penalty killing ice time (per game):
Robyn Regehr 3:41
Adrian Aucoin 2:57
Craig Conroy 2:50
Cory Sarich 2:45
Dion Phaneuf 2:43
Rene Bourque 2:24

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
 
aplous said:
Wow.....Caps line has dropped 85 cents since last night. Big money coming in on NYR. Also Blackhawks are up 15 cents.


Played Pens -145 for a couple of units and a small homer play on the Blues +260
Click to expand...

yeah, quite a bit of movement.

Like the price on the Pens the way they are playing and when its all said and done as of now not 'needing' to steal one in Philly where its one of the toughest places to play in the playoffs especially.
 
Santacapper said:
yeah, quite a bit of movement.

Like the price on the Pens the way they are playing and when its all said and done as of now not 'needing' to steal one in Philly where its one of the toughest places to play in the playoffs especially.
Click to expand...


Who's your pick to reach the finals Santa?
 
Just not seeing a whole lot of upsets in Round 1, Carolina is the only one I like and at +110 that's not a big one.

None of the lower seeds have a better head-to-head mark except Carolina.

Formwise the last 30 games maybe Anaheim (vs SJ) and definitely Carolina (vs NJ) have shown better form than their upcoming opponent. But that's it for the dogs. That's looking at 5 on 5 numbers, SOG differential, Shooting/Save %, and Special Teams.

On the other hand, Hawks and Pens at mid -100s look easy to me. Hawks have owned the Flames this year and Pens with home ice now are gonna be tough.
 
Gandolf said:
Just not seeing a whole lot of upsets in Round 1, Carolina is the only one I like and at +110 that's not a big one.

None of the lower seeds have a better head-to-head mark except Carolina.

Formwise the last 30 games maybe Anaheim (vs SJ) and definitely Carolina (vs NJ) have shown better form than their upcoming opponent. But that's it for the dogs. That's looking at 5 on 5 numbers, SOG differential, Shooting/Save %, and Special Teams.

On the other hand, Hawks and Pens at mid -100s look easy to me. Hawks have owned the Flames this year and Pens with home ice now are gonna be tough.
Click to expand...

totally agree, not much out there that screams upset, poorly performing goalies (Turco etc).

I think the first game will separate them out though as they will happen. WHich young goalie who is hot now will stay hot.

will teams that havent been there 'not know any different' or will they be a deer in the headlights ala Pitt vs Ottawa 2 years back
 
Not seeing why there's so much hate for the Caps. They have played consistently well all season, have gotten a playoffs under their belts, and have the best player in the league. I could see calling for the upset if they got stuck playing the Flyers or Canes, but I'm not buying the Rangers.

Hard as it is to say it, Pittsburgh looks like the best bet out there. I would like the Flyers against ANYONE else other than the Bruins, and even then I like their chances better of winning a series. Pitt and Philly are the same team except Pitt is better at it. Not as bad as last year, but I think it's Pens in 6.
 
JG, to me its not hate... its a bad line they put out IMO, and that could present nice opportunites late into the series.

No doubt they are a good team, playing well, but the Rangers struggled in the middle and are playing pretty well since they hired Torts and could pose some problems for the Caps
 
I like Calgary even with the injuries they have to their defence and the fact that Chicago was 4-0 against them this season.

I just think Chicago is basically a junior team at this point and relying on 20 year olds to lead you in the playoffs has never really worked outside of Gretzky, Crosby etc.
 
guaranteeed said:
I like Calgary even with the injuries they have to their defence and the fact that Chicago was 4-0 against them this season.

I just think Chicago is basically a junior team at this point and relying on 20 year olds to lead you in the playoffs has never really worked outside of Gretzky, Crosby etc.
Click to expand...

JOkinen is going to be hard pressed to disappear more than he has the last month, and its his first playoffs

who knows, but I do tend to agree with the Hawks assesment
 
<TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#003366 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=235>Team Name </TD><TD align=middle width=55>MoneyLn</TD><TD align=middle width=95>Total</TD><TD align=middle width=95>Spread </TD><TD align=right width=85>T1 Total </TD><TD align=right width=85>T2 Total </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#363636><TD width="100%"><SMALL>Apr 15 6:05 pm NHL Playoffs first round </SMALL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=35>51</TD><TD width=180>New York Rangers</TD><TD align=right width=45>+155</TD><TD align=middle width=85></TD><TD align=right width=85>-185</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle width=35>52</TD><TD width=180>Washington Capitals</TD><TD align=right width=45>-175</TD><TD align=middle width=85>5½</TD><TD align=right width=85>-1½ +165</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#363636><TD width="100%"><SMALL>Apr 15 6:05 pm (VER) NHL Playoffs first round </SMALL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=35>53</TD><TD width=180>Philadelphia Flyers</TD><TD align=right width=45>+135</TD><TD align=right width=85>+100</TD><TD align=right width=85>-225</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle width=35>54</TD><TD width=180>Pittsburgh Penguins</TD><TD align=right width=45>-155</TD><TD align=right width=85>6 -120</TD><TD align=right width=85>-1½ +185</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#363636><TD width="100%"><SMALL>Apr 15 6:35 pm NHL Playoffs first round </SMALL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=35>55</TD><TD width=180>Carolina Hurricanes</TD><TD align=right width=45>+125</TD><TD align=right width=85>-125</TD><TD align=right width=85>-235</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle width=35>56</TD><TD width=180>New Jersey Devils</TD><TD align=right width=45>-145</TD><TD align=right width=85>5 +105</TD><TD align=right width=85>-1½ +195</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#363636><TD width="100%"><SMALL>Apr 15 9:05 pm (VER) NHL Playoffs first round </SMALL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=35>57</TD><TD width=180>St Louis Blues</TD><TD align=right width=45>+160</TD><TD align=right width=85>-120</TD><TD align=right width=85>-180</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle width=35>58</TD><TD width=180>Vancouver Canucks</TD><TD align=right width=45>-180</TD><TD align=right width=85>5 +100</TD><TD align=right width=85>-1½ +160</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#800000 height=20><TD width=225>Thursday, April 16, 2009</TD><TD width=55 bgColor=#ffffff>Game</TD><TD align=middle width=55>1stP</TD><TD align=middle width=55>2ndP</TD><TD align=middle width=55>3rdP</TD><TD width=150></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#003366 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=235>Team Name </TD><TD align=middle width=55>MoneyLn</TD><TD align=middle width=95>Total</TD><TD align=middle width=95>Spread </TD><TD align=right width=85>T1 Total </TD><TD align=right width=85>T2 Total </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#363636><TD width="100%"><SMALL>Apr 16 6:05 pm NHL Playoffs first round </SMALL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=35>59</TD><TD width=180>Montreal Canadiens</TD><TD align=right width=45>+175</TD><TD align=right width=85>-105</TD><TD align=right width=85>-170</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle width=35>60</TD><TD width=180>Boston Bruins</TD><TD align=right width=45>-210</TD><TD align=right width=85>5½ -115</TD><TD align=right width=85>-1½ +150</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#363636><TD width="100%"><SMALL>Apr 16 6:05 pm (VER) NHL Playoffs first round </SMALL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=35>61</TD><TD width=180>Columbus Blue Jackets</TD><TD align=right width=45>+200</TD><TD align=right width=85>-105</TD><TD align=right width=85>-140</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle width=35>62</TD><TD width=180>Detroit Red Wings</TD><TD align=right width=45>-240</TD><TD align=right width=85>5½ -115</TD><TD align=right width=85>-1½ +120</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#363636><TD width="100%"><SMALL>Apr 16 7:35 pm NHL Playoffs first round </SMALL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=35>63</TD><TD width=180>Calgary Flames</TD><TD align=right width=45>+145</TD><TD align=right width=85>-120</TD><TD align=right width=85>-210</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle width=35>64</TD><TD width=180>Chicago Blackhawks</TD><TD align=right width=45>-165</TD><TD align=right width=85>5½ +100</TD><TD align=right width=85>-1½ +175</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR bgColor=#363636><TD width="100%"><SMALL>Apr 16 9:35 pm (VER) NHL Playoffs first round </SMALL></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#000000 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle width=35>65</TD><TD width=180>Anaheim Ducks</TD><TD align=right width=45>+175</TD><TD align=right width=85>+120</TD><TD align=right width=85>-170</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle width=35>66</TD><TD width=180>San Jose Sharks</TD><TD align=right width=45>-210</TD><TD align=right width=85>5½ -140</TD><TD align=right width=85>-1½ +150</TD><TD width=85></TD><TD width=85></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 width="98%" bgColor=#003366 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>Line Changes Made Within Last 15 Minutes Are </TD><TD width="1%" bgColor=#666666>Highlighted.</TD><TD width="98%"></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
 
Do we have those PP percentages we generally have every year? The ones that are, usually, a good indicator of who's going to advance?

(Yes, the subtext of this message involves Joe's slothful laziness, please accept and overcome.)
 
Joe Public said:
Do we have those PP percentages we generally have every year? The ones that are, usually, a good indicator of who's going to advance?

(Yes, the subtext of this message involves Joe's slothful laziness, please accept and overcome.)
Click to expand...

each teams should be in eachmatchup post under statistical keys... first bullet:cheers:
 
Ya I agree on both, Anaheim has 25 wins on the road this year and has played San Jose tough. Carolina has been so hot you have to think they don't go down 0-2 either
 
Hawks playoff experience

Kane (0) - Toews (0) - Havlat (51)
Sharp (12) - Bolland (0) - Versteeg (0)
Brouwer (0) - Pahlsson (64) - Byfuglien (0)
Ladd (17) - Fraser (0) - Burish (0)
Eager (2) - Brent (0) - Skille (0)
Pelletier (0) - Dowell (0)

Keith (0) - Seabrook (0)
Campbell (47) - Barker (0)
Walker (4) - Hjalmarsson (0)
Johnson (0)
Hendry (0)

IR: Sopel (42)

Khabibulin (57)
Huet (13)
Niemi (0)

Campbell is their only D man with playoff experience and he has had his minutes slashed lately and was pretty non existent in the playoffs last year for the Sharks.

Havlat, Ladd and Pahlsson are the only forwards with any experience. Ladd has a cup with Carolina but was a 4th liner and only put up 5 pts in the 17 playoff games. Pahlsson was a warrior for the ducks a few years ago and shut down Gaborik, the Sedins, and Zetterberg/Datsyuk on the way to the Ducks cup but he hasn't really been the same since then, hes -17 this season. Havlat had some decent playoff stats on the good Ottawa teams, but outside of this year he has been extremely injury prone and is not a fan of the physical game, which the Flames defence uses a lot.

Khabibulin of coarse is their main source of playoff experience winning the cup with the Lightning in 04, he has been great in the playoffs, but Kipprusoff has been no slouch either so I think that match up is a wash.
 
is calgary any good? blackhawks handled detroit this weekend and hockey people around here are talking wcf.
 
J Galt said:
Not seeing why there's so much hate for the Caps. They have played consistently well all season, have gotten a playoffs under their belts, and have the best player in the league. I could see calling for the upset if they got stuck playing the Flyers or Canes, but I'm not buying the Rangers.

Hard as it is to say it, Pittsburgh looks like the best bet out there. I would like the Flyers against ANYONE else other than the Bruins, and even then I like their chances better of winning a series. Pitt and Philly are the same team except Pitt is better at it. Not as bad as last year, but I think it's Pens in 6.
Click to expand...

I think the Hate is for the Tending from Theodore. He has not lost in the 1st round and can't get past the 2nd round. That is by far the biggest problem with this imo. :shake:
 
guaranteeed said:
I like Calgary even with the injuries they have to their defence and the fact that Chicago was 4-0 against them this season.

I just think Chicago is basically a junior team at this point and relying on 20 year olds to lead you in the playoffs has never really worked outside of Gretzky, Crosby etc.
Click to expand...

I agree and the Fact that Quenneville is Coach they don't get too far.
 
aplous said:
Wow.....Caps line has dropped 85 cents since last night. Big money coming in on NYR. Also Blackhawks are up 15 cents.


Played Pens -145 for a couple of units and a small homer play on the Blues +260
Click to expand...

I don't get it cause the RANGERS have lost a lot of scoring from last years playoff team. Loss of Jagr and Shanny are going to hurt. No way in hell does stupid ass Avery pick up the slack. :angry:

As for Post All Star stats the Rangers have the worst PP out of the 16 teams remaining.
2nd half stats
Caps 34 games - 117 gf 104 ga
Rangers 34 games - 81 gf 89 ga
 
brewer said:
is calgary any good? blackhawks handled detroit this weekend and hockey people around here are talking wcf.
Click to expand...

The games on the weekend didn't matter to Detroit, they were all ready locked in 2nd and Chicago needed to win at least 1 to get home ice in the first round, so I wouldn't look too hard at those games.
 
It's tough to put your money anywhere near Joel Quennville.

Interesting thing about a couple of these matchups, there are some truly huge PP discrepancies.

Montreal generates the most PP chances in the league while Boston's near the worst. In a rivalry series, even though Montreal isn't as good as Boston on converting those chances, more opportunities in itself should keep them in games, probably keep the series going longer.

Pittsburgh, too, has a big advantage over the Flyers here. Again, their conversion percentage isn't as good, but they have a big advantage in number of penalties they draw.

The worst teams in the playoffs on the kill, as far as simply goals in the net are:

1. Anaheim
2. Washington
3. Detroit
4. Vancouver
5. Philly
6. Montreal/Jersey (tie, two goals behind Philly)

It would be interesting to know who the strongest even strength teams are, because those teams that live off the PP may not get those chances as the whistles get swallowed in the playoffs.

Just going by the numbers, it's hard to see how Anaheim doesn't get killed in the first round.
 
it's hard to see how Anaheim doesn't get killed in the first round.

The Ducks have to stay out of the BOX vs the Sharks is the only way they have a shot. The only good thing for me is seeing the Sharks have to face the Ducks instead of the Wings seeing the Ducks. Cause the Ducks will be physical. Pronger will be in Thortons face every shift possible.

As a Wings fan I not to concerned with PK in the 1st round cause Columbus PP # are not that great. I think the WINGS bear down in their own end vs the Jackets more then People think they will.
 
The Ducks have to stay out of the BOX vs the Sharks is the only way they have a shot.

And the only way that happens is if they can answer 'yes' to this question: Are the Ducks a fast team, generally faster than San Jose?

I actually don't know the answer to this question, despite them being down the road, I don't even follow them.

But if they are, then they have a shot to stay out of the box. If not, they're f**ked. Because you can just look at the numbers and see how many penalties that team takes. If they're not faster than San Jose, they're going to be in the box all series long and only their goalie standing on their head will give them any chance at all.
 
Joe Public said:
The Ducks have to stay out of the BOX vs the Sharks is the only way they have a shot.

And the only way that happens is if they can answer 'yes' to this question: Are the Ducks a fast team, generally faster than San Jose?

I actually don't know the answer to this question, despite them being down the road, I don't even follow them.

But if they are, then they have a shot to stay out of the box. If not, they're f**ked. Because you can just look at the numbers and see how many penalties that team takes. If they're not faster than San Jose, they're going to be in the box all series long and only their goalie standing on their head will give them any chance at all.
Click to expand...

This is not directed at you Joe or anyone on here but one big problem is when a team wins the PRESIDENT'S Trophy for the regular season people think they will cake walk 1st round which is not always the cause.

I do agree with everything you say in here cause this Shark team seems to be different from seasons of the past. Usually the Ducks do play the Sharks tough and this Ducks team does have experience for a playoff run. :shake:
 
Oh the President's Trophy is the kiss of death, so I certainly don't take it personally.

I just think the matchup here may be death for the Ducks.

Funny thing about the Sharks is, unless they've solved the same problem they've had for 10 years now--a complete lack of heart come April & May--the President's Trophy will just be the convenient excuse for what we all know is coming from them.
 
Joe Public said:
Oh the President's Trophy is the kiss of death, so I certainly don't take it personally.

I just think the matchup here may be death for the Ducks.

Funny thing about the Sharks is, unless they've solved the same problem they've had for 10 years now--a complete lack of heart come April & May--the President's Trophy will just be the convenient excuse for what we all know is coming from them.
Click to expand...

100% agree. I see the Sharks in 6 or 7. I don't see a quick series at all.

32-5-4 record in the Shark Tank
 
Of the 22 teams to win the Presidents' Trophy since the league began awarding it,

7 won the Stanley Cup.
 
not that it means anything, but Liquidnoose was not happy the Sharks got the Ducks. he was sending me texts after a few makers, and mr shark himself is definitely worried...fwiw.

think i'll make the most of it (his fear of the ducks, come playoff time) once the series gets going. ;)
 
how many playoff games has McLellan been the head coach of... goes w/o saying that he's going to be in tough against Carlyle...

I think very tough. Really thinking hard last night with a play on the Ducks
 
Negreanu's picks/plays....dude is money in hockey:


NHL Playoffs start this week and there are some great match-ups. I am likely going to bet 5 of the 8 series:

NY RANGERS +1.96 vs WASHINGTON: This is mostly a price play as I think it's a much closer series than this. The Rangers have a better goaltender in Henrik Lundqvist and when they are "right" they play better team defense too.

PHILADELPHIA +1.37 vs PITTSBURGH: Philly is pretty deep at forward and can score in many ways, while Pittsburgh is a bit more "two-dimensional" with Crosby and Malkin. They made some key improvements at the deadline acquiring Chris Kunitz, but if Philly can get any goaltending at all, I think they can grind the Pens down in 6 or 7.

NEW JERSEY -1.34 vs CAROLINA: Martin Brodeur. The guy is just sick and they are playing well right now. The key difference between these Devlis and past Devils teams is that they can really put the puck in the net. Carolina probably would not have even made the playoffs if they weren't in a division with Atlanta and Tampa Bay. Carolina has holes, and I think New Jersey should be more like 1.70 favorite in this series.

VANCOUVER -2.15 vs ST.LOUIS: Roberto Luongo is playing like the best goaltender in the world right now and this Vancouver team got a major boost with the addition of Mats Sundin. They no longer have to depend on the Sedin twins to put the puck in the net. The Blues are a great story, and have a young core of players including T.J. Oshie that will make some noise in the future, but this is a horrible match-up for them. Vancouver is my sleeper pick to go all the way. They have all the tools now if they can stay healthy and ride Luongo.

MONTREAL +2.87 vs BOSTON: Boston just ain't that good and Montreal can easily surprise them. The Canadiens underachieved all season long, but this is the playoffs now, and they DO have the firepower necessary for the upset. Missing Markov is a problem, but expect to see guys like Kovalev and the Kostitsyns' turn it around. This team is too talented to be a 2.87-1 dog against the Bruins.


Not betting the following, but here is who I would go with if I had to:

DETROIT -4.57 vs COLUMBUS: I'm not laying that much, especially with the goalie woes the Wings have struggled with this season.

CHICAGO -1.48 vs CALGARY: I really do like Chicago here, but the price is a bit too steep for my liking. Calgary has totally stumbled through the gate, but they have some fire power if Iginla and Jokinen can get hot. I'm staying away.

ANAHEIM +2.59 vs SAN JOSE: This is a dangerous match-up for SJ, I can guarantee you that they aren't happy about it. The Ducks are just two years removed from winning it all, and while there are some missing and aging parts, they can still surprise the Sharks. Strangely, I think the Sharks ARE the favorites to win it all at this point, but I'm not laying 3-1 that they beat the Ducks.
 
agree with most of Daniels thoughts save for Montreal and Philly really...

Boston ain't that good? come on... they have owned MTL and MTL is not playing how you want going into the playoffs... they havent since November
 
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