NHL Playoffs

[MYTAPPY]

Bought a ticket to Game 2 of the playoffs for the Carolina Hurricanes
on Saturday. Never been to an NHL game period. Been to a lot of ECHL games, but never an NHL game. So I'll be making the three hour drive to Raleigh to take in some Hurricanes hockey. Pretty stoked.
"Go Canes"

[Pards Rule]

GO CANES...THIS IS THEIR YEAR!!!

[*****]

Finally the best pro playoffs begin!

[MYTAPPY]

Finally the best pro playoffs begin!

I'm with you Ralph on being the best pro playoffs, but the NFL is a very very close second. Then again the fall classic is not too bad.

[*****]

In order:
NHL
MLB
NFL
NBA

[AppGuy04]

Bought a ticket to Game 2 of the playoffs for the Carolina Hurricanes
on Saturday. Never been to an NHL game period. Been to a lot of ECHL games, but never an NHL game. So I'll be making the three hour drive to Raleigh to take in some Hurricanes hockey. Pretty stoked.
"Go Canes"

Its quite a show in the sold out house. Make sure you buy a shirt or something red. I'd let ya borrow my jersey if you want.

[MYTAPPY]

Its quite a show in the sold out house. Make sure you buy a shirt or something red. I'd let ya borrow my jersey if you want.

I can't wait. I appreciate the offer to borrow your jersey AppGuy. I asked for a jersey for Christmas, but the girlfriend didn't come through. I will be purchasing something red to go with my Canes hat I have. NHL Playoffs and cold beer. What a combo ..xprost2x

[dbackjon]

Predators clinched a playoff berth Saturday, and now are working to hold on to the #4 spot in the West.

[Pard4Life]

Let's Go DEVILS!

[Killtoppers90]

If my Thrashers can pull it off, you might be hosting us in the first round. This should be a great matchup, IF we get in. Had a great time hosting the Canes this past Saturday night at BlueLand - 5-2 win over a great Carolina team helps our cause.

[Cocky]

When did the NHL start back playing? I thought the league quit or disbanded or something.

[AppGuy04]

I can't wait. I appreciate the offer to borrow your jersey AppGuy. I asked for a jersey for Christmas, but the girlfriend didn't come through. I will be purchasing something red to go with my Canes hat I have. NHL Playoffs and cold beer. What a combo ..xprost2x

Those jerseys aren't cheap, especially if you want an authentic one with a player on it

[AppGuy04]

Predators clinched a playoff berth Saturday, and now are working to hold on to the #4 spot in the West.

but they lose their goalie, bad news

[JohnG]

I hope the Canes meet Montreal in the first round, don't get me wrong Montreal is a good team, but it just seems like the SE teams have had the Canes number this year plus after the end of the regular season I am really getting sick of watching them play the SE teams. Either way, I really hope the Canes do well so I can make it to some games when I am done with exams up here in PA.

[Killtoppers90]

I hope the Canes meet Montreal in the first round, don't get me wrong Montreal is a good team, but it just seems like the SE teams have had the Canes number this year plus after the end of the regular season I am really getting sick of watching them play the SE teams. Either way, I really hope the Canes do well so I can make it to some games when I am done with exams up here in PA.

Come on John. That is precisely my point of hoping my Thrashers get in..... Good luck and I hope to see you in the playoffs.

[AppGuy04]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news;_ylt=AjWQCvnEKhBJwtalD.4MopJ7vLYF?slug=playof fpreviewhurricanes&prov=tsn&type=lgns

As these words hit the page, there still are regular-season games to be played, playoff spots and seeds to be decided and home-ice advantage to be won. But that won't stop us from picking a Stanley Cup champion here and now.

Possible tough first-round matchups aside, injury status uncertain, we're going to go boldly into the unknown: It will be the Hurricanes.

[AppGuy04]

It's looking more and more like Atlanta is gonna pass Tampa for 8th. If thats the case, I'd rather have 2nd in the league for the Canes. They are 4-0 vs Montreal, who is currently 7th, and Atlanta is the hottest team in the league right now. The conference championship would be nice, but its about matchups too.

[AppGuy04]

The Western Conference playoff picture is set:

#1 Detroit
#8 Edmonton
Series tied 2-2

#2 Dallas
#7 Colorado
Dallas leads series 3-1

#3 Calgary
#6 Anaheim
Calgary leads series 2-1

#4 Nashville
#5 San Jose
Series tied 2-2

In the Eastern Conference:

The only thing that is certain is that Ottawa and Carolina will be the top 2 seeds, in which order remina to be seen. Most likely, Ottawa will be #1 and Carolina #2, which is good if you are a Canes fan like myself

[89Hen]

Big happenings last night. Devils beat the Flyers to actually tie them for second in the division (Flyers do have a game in hand). I was so concerned about catching the Rangers (also lost last night) that I hadn't even thought of the possibility the Devils could catch them.

Saturday: Rangers at Flyers
Sunday: Flyers at Devils
Tuesday: Senators at Rangers, Devils at Canadians, Flyers at Islanders

Very simple for the Flyers, win out and win the division and get the #3 spot. Lose and be saddled with playing at Buffalo, which is a nightmare for them.

[AppGuy04]

Big happenings last night. Devils beat the Flyers to actually tie them for second in the division (Flyers do have a game in hand). I was so concerned about catching the Rangers (also lost last night) that I hadn't even thought of the possibility the Devils could catch them.

Saturday: Rangers at Flyers
Sunday: Flyers at Devils
Tuesday: Senators at Rangers, Devils at Canadians, Flyers at Islanders

Very simple for the Flyers, win out and win the division and get the #3 spot. Lose and be saddled with playing at Buffalo, which is a nightmare for them.

The #3 seed is also important for future play. If the seeds hold, the 3 would have to play most likely Carolina, which most feel Ottawa is better

[JohnG]

True Carolina is 4-0 against Montreal on the season but we've only played them once since the end of January and since then their goalie situation has changed and they are currently 10-2 over there last 12 games. Even still I would probably lean towards playing Montreal but either way it is going to be tough but I think the Canes can do it.

BTW: Anybody else going to join their team and grow a playoff beard?

[89Hen]

BTW: Anybody else going to join their team and grow a playoff beard?
I'm growing a playoff mullet. Hair is already down to my collar, which for me is long.

[AppGuy04]

True Carolina is 4-0 against Montreal on the season but we've only played them once since the end of January and since then their goalie situation has changed and they are currently 10-2 over there last 12 games. Even still I would probably lean towards playing Montreal but either way it is going to be tough but I think the Canes can do it.

BTW: Anybody else going to join their team and grow a playoff beard?

yes, but for some reason, we have their number, we have beaten then by atleast 2 goals every game, by 4 goals twice, and 6 goals once, not even close in any of them

[dbackjon]

Predators clinched the #4 seed - will host their first home-advantage playoff series ever.

[AppGuy04]

Rangers at Flyers today at 2pm on NBC. Not real impressed with NBC's coverage, but this is an important game.

[AppGuy04]

Tomorrow is the last day of the regular season. Should be a crazy night all night. I'll be at the Canes game and hopefully they will keep updating the scoreboard. Honestly, I'm rooting for Tampa to win, which they should against Washington, and Montreal to lose to New Jersey, who has been very hot. In this scenario, Tampa would take the 7, and Montreal the 8. The Canes match up much better against Montreal than TB. This all ofcourse, is assuming that the Canes take the #1 seed they are currently in

[MYTAPPY]

Anybody know what day game two would be for the Canes if they do take first in the East? or second?

[Ivytalk]

After dominating the Rangers, the Flyers got pounded (again) by their nemesis, the Devils. I sense a first-round exit for Philly. Call it The Curse of Forsberg's Groin!

[AppGuy04]

Anybody know what day game two would be for the Canes if they do take first in the East? or second?

I have heard game 1 would be Saturday most likely, so that would probably be Monday for game 2

[JohnG]

Anybody know what day game two would be for the Canes if they do take first in the East? or second?


It is still up in the air but my money says we play Friday/Sunday but Saturday/Monday is also possible.

[MYTAPPY]

It is still up in the air but my money says we play Friday/Sunday but Saturday/Monday is also possible.

Friday/Sunday is if we are the one seed or the two seed?

[JohnG]

Friday/Sunday is if we are the one seed or the two seed?

I dont think it is dependent on our seed. I would have assumed we would be Fri/Sun because we were the first team in the East to lock down home ice advantage. It depends on what the TV guys want, when our rink is available and when the other teams rink is available.

[AppGuy04]

I dont think it is dependent on our seed. I would have assumed we would be Fri/Sun because we were the first team in the East to lock down home ice advantage. It depends on what the TV guys want, when our rink is available and when the other teams rink is available.

Nothing going on at the RBC, so either is a possibility.

[MYTAPPY]

I dont think it is dependent on our seed. I would have assumed we would be Fri/Sun because we were the first team in the East to lock down home ice advantage. It depends on what the TV guys want, when our rink is available and when the other teams rink is available.

I guess we'll find out tomorrow night or wednesday.

[AppGuy04]

I guess we'll find out tomorrow night or wednesday.

I won't be getting 1st round tickets, but if we advance, I'm def. investing in 2nd round tix. I'll be there tomorrow tonight, and I've got updates from Cingular coming from the Tampa, Montreal and Ottawa games. Hopefully tonight will be a loud crowd as the Canes go for 1st in the East

[JohnG]

I won't be getting 1st round tickets, but if we advance, I'm def. investing in 2nd round tix. I'll be there tomorrow tonight, and I've got updates from Cingular coming from the Tampa, Montreal and Ottawa games. Hopefully tonight will be a loud crowd as the Canes go for 1st in the East

Yea it should be loud tonight. Rally Towels for the first 16,000 fans tonight so it'll look good on OLN. Also tonight is a trade in date for mini-pack holders so it should be a pretty full house.

GO CANES!

[AppGuy04]

Yea it should be loud tonight. Rally Towels for the first 16,000 fans tonight so it'll look good on OLN. Also tonight is a trade in date for mini-pack holders so it should be a pretty full house.

GO CANES!

tomorrow night

[JohnG]

tomorrow night

Yea thats what I meant. I would have been pretty upset if I tuned in tonight and saw the Stars playing the Red Wings when I thought it was going to be the Canes game. I guess that means I have time to do a little :read: tonight. :(

[AppGuy04]

Yea thats what I meant. I would have been pretty upset if I tuned in tonight and saw the Stars playing the Red Wings when I thought it was going to be the Canes game. I guess that means I have time to do a little :read: tonight. :(

The Atlanta game might be on FSN, they are still fighting for a spot, but don't control their own destiny

[MYTAPPY]

I won't be getting 1st round tickets, but if we advance, I'm def. investing in 2nd round tix. I'll be there tomorrow tonight, and I've got updates from Cingular coming from the Tampa, Montreal and Ottawa games. Hopefully tonight will be a loud crowd as the Canes go for 1st in the East

Yea, I have tix for game 2 and I'd rather it be on sunday than monday since I'm coming from Charlotte

[AppGuy04]

http://www.tsn.ca/columnists/bob_mckenzie.asp?id=162907

What's your opinion of the shootout in the playoffs?

Personally, I don't care either way. The shootout is exciting and good for the sport. But I'd rather see the same rules all the way through, whether with or without the shootout. Don't keep tweeking the rules, play the game and keep it one way.

[JohnG]

http://www.tsn.ca/columnists/bob_mckenzie.asp?id=162907

What's your opinion of the shootout in the playoffs?

Personally, I don't care either way. The shootout is exciting and good for the sport. But I'd rather see the same rules all the way through, whether with or without the shootout. Don't keep tweeking the rules, play the game and keep it one way.
When I first heard about the shootout I hated the idea because I am more of a traditionalist and didn't have a problem with ties, but after seeing some shootout hockey I have come around and love the shootout. However I think it has ABSOLUTELY NO place in the playoffs. As far as the excitement factor goes I think being at a shootout is very exciting but I think OT playoff hockey is easily just as exciting.

I had the pleasure of being at all of the Hurricanes home playoff games back in 2002 and by a wide margin the most exciting/nerve-wrecking (although very disappointing) game I went to was the triple OT game against Detroit in game 3 of the SCF. Nothing matches the excitement of watching two teams play hockey for 4, 5, even 6 periods and being on your feet the whole time knowing the game could end at any second.

[89Hen]

after seeing some shootout hockey I have come around and love the shootout. However I think it has ABSOLUTELY NO place in the playoffs. As far as the excitement factor goes I think being at a shootout is very exciting but I think OT playoff hockey is easily just as exciting.
Agreed 100%. :nod: Anyone who watched the Flyers-Penguins 5 OT game several years back can tell you that it doesn't get any better than playoff OT. I watched every minute of that game.

[AppGuy04]

Atlanta loses to Washington 6-4. The East is now set, except for the seeds

[MYTAPPY]

Sorry Thrasher fans. You made it interesting there at the end. I guess now you'll just have to cheer for the Canes.
"Go Canes"

[JohnG]

There was an interesting read today in the N&O that raises some good points about officiating in the playoffs and how it might effect the Hurricanes.
http://www.newsobserver.com/122/story/429827.html

[AppGuy04]

There was an interesting read today in the N&O that raises some good points about officiating in the playoffs and how it might effect the Hurricanes.
http://www.newsobserver.com/122/story/429827.html

This is the kind of crap that pisses me off. Why the hell would they change how they officiate or change the rules when the playoffs roll around. Call it the same way all year, and keep it that way, one way or the other.

[Killtoppers90]

Sorry Thrasher fans. You made it interesting there at the end. I guess now you'll just have to cheer for the Canes.
"Go Canes"

I will if the Canes will beat Tampa - hate those guys!

[AppGuy04]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/playoffmatchups;_ylt=Aj81muqs_.oVaCYotjYC8697vLYF

Playoffs are set now. Canes lost last night, but it worked out better for them, atleast on paper. Both they and Ottawa are undefeated against their first round opponents.


BUT.....



If the Canes play like they did last night, they will be sitting at home by the end of next week. That was the most horrible game I have ever seen them play, even worse than some of the games when they finished dead last in the league.

[AppGuy04]

http://www.nhl.com/news/2006/04/269288.html

Matchups and start dates are set.

East- Ottawa/ Tampa series starts Friday, all others Saturday
West- Dallas/Colorado starts Saturday, all others Friday

most games on OLN

NBC is showing the following:

Game 1: Saturday, April 22nd 3:00 PM NY Rangers at New Jersey
Game 4: Saturday, April 29th 3:00 PM New Jersey at NY Rangers


Game 5: Sunday, April 30th 2:00 PM Philadelphia at Buffalo


Game 2: Sunday, April 23rd 1:00 PM Edmonton at Detroit
Game 5: Saturday, April 29th 3:00 PM Edmonton at Detroit


Game 1: Saturday, April 22nd 3:00 PM Colorado at Dallas
Game 5: Sunday, April 30th 2:00 PM Colorado at Dallas


Game 2: Sunday, April 23rd 1:00 PM San Jose at Nashville

[MYTAPPY]

Well it turns out that Game 2 is Monday night, which I had tickets for.
Since Im coming from Charlotte and can't get off Monday in time to drive up to Raleigh, I bought tickets for Game 1 which is on Saturday. All I need to do now is sell my Game 2 tickets. Im excited about this weekend.
:hurray:

[AppGuy04]

Well it turns out that Game 2 is Monday night, which I had tickets for.
Since Im coming from Charlotte and can't get off Monday in time to drive up to Raleigh, I bought tickets for Game 1 which is on Saturday. All I need to do now is sell my Game 2 tickets. Im excited about this weekend.
:hurray:


check your PM

[AppGuy04]

ESPN's Scott Burnside predictions:

East:
Ottawa/Tampa Bay- Lightning in 7
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2413311

Carolina/Montreal- Canes in 5
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2413315

New York R/New Jersey- Rangers in 7
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2413319

Buffalo/Philly- Sabres in 6
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2413324

West:
Detroit/Edmonton- Wings in 6
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2413151

Colorado/Dallas- Stars in 5
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2413152

Anaheim/Calgary- Flames in 7
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2413161

San Jose/Nashville- Sharks in 6
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2413162

Your thoughts?

[MYTAPPY]

My prediction:
Canes in 5 over the "Les Habitants"

[89Hen]

ESPN's Scott Burnside predictions:
East:
Ottawa/Tampa Bay- Lightning in 7
New York R/New Jersey- Rangers in 7

I'm embarrassed to say I haven't really been paying attention to the West this year, but IMO these two East predictions are way off. I think Ottawa and the Devils will easily win these series. I can see the Canes and Sabres :bawling: winning, but the Rangers are in free-fall while the Devils are the hottest team in the NHL. Brodeur is playing like, well... Brodeur and they are a completely different team since Lamoriello scrambled the lines up.

[AppGuy04]

I'm embarrassed to say I haven't really been paying attention to the West this year, but IMO these two East predictions are way off. I think Ottawa and the Devils will easily win these series. I can see the Canes and Sabres :bawling: winning, but the Rangers are in free-fall while the Devils are the hottest team in the NHL. Brodeur is playing like, well... Brodeur and they are a completely different team since Lamoriello scrambled the lines up.

I would agree on the NJ series, but Ottawa hasn't been playing very good with the exception of last night, and who knows which Lightning team will show, the one that barely made the playoffs or the one that dominated the Canes this year, we shall see

[89Hen]

Ottawa hasn't been playing very good with the exception of last night, and who knows which Lightning team will show, the one that barely made the playoffs or the one that dominated the Canes this year, we shall see
Ottawa was 4-0 against the Lightning this year outscoring them 16-6. TB was only 5-3 vs the Canes this year, they would have been a LOT better off drawing the Flyers somehow. THAT's was one way set this year...
TB 4-0 vs the Flyers by a total score of 21-7. :bawling:

[AppGuy04]

Ottawa was 4-0 against the Lightning this year outscoring them 16-6. TB was only 5-3 vs the Canes this year, they would have been a LOT better off drawing the Flyers somehow. THAT's was one way set this year...
TB 4-0 vs the Flyers by a total score of 21-7. :bawling:

Canes are 4-0 vs Montreal by a score of 25-9

[Pard4Life]

Canes are 4-0 vs Montreal by a score of 25-9

You should know that regular season stats mean nothign in the playoffs. This is ESPECIALLY true in the NHL.

[Pard4Life]

My NHL predictions:

Ottawa over Tampa 4-1
Montreal over Carolina 4-3
New Jersey over Rags 4-2
Buffalo over Flyers 4-2

Detriot over Edmonton 4-1
Dallas over Colorado 4-0
Calgary over Anahiem 4-3
San Jose over Nashville 4-1

Ottawa over Montreal 4-3
New Jersey over Buffalo 4-2

San Jose over Detriot 4-2
Calgary over Dallas 4-2

New Jersey over Ottawa 4-3
Calgary over San Jose 4-2

New Jersey over Calgary in a dandy, 4-3

I'm not rallying against the Carolina sentiment on the board here, I just don't think the Hurricanes are a solid team as many make them out to believe. Their goaltending is not experienced. Gerber?? They had balance in scoring throughout the year... but have they had playoff experience? Balance dissappears in the postseason very often. Plus Carolina has played in a weak SE division. Montreal is very talented, they played in the toughest division, Huet has been hot leading into the playoffs.. a hot goalie is monumental for a playoff run. If he garners a shutout or gives up one goal in game one.. look out.. the Habs are for real.

The most intriguing matchup in Rd1 is Calgary-Anahiem.. Gigure vs. Kipprusoff... two tested playoff goalies and two outstanding defenses. I wish this were the conference final. Miikka has had more staying power than Gigure, and was the top goalie this year.. so edge to Kipper.

The Wings seem to have a jinx on them... they haven't been past round 2 since 2002. And San Jose seems to have that scoring touch. Without Thornton having to lead with the C, it seems like he has been untouchable.. plus Cheechoo and Marleau.. very dangerous team.

Ottawa is tough but where does the Hasek factor fit in? Emery has been good, but inconsistent lately. Can he carry the Sens. If Ottawa plays to their potenial, they should be set for two rounds with moderate nettminding.

And the Devils are the hottest team in the NHL.. awesome, unreal chemistry. If Marty shows up in the playoffs, and that's a major likelihood, than the Devils can win the whole thing. The best aspect about the Devils is that anyone can give you a goal except one or two enforcer players who dont' step on the ice much... (Rassmussen and Jannsen off the top of my head). Pick a name, and they can score a goal for the Devils if need be.

[AppGuy04]

You should know that regular season stats mean nothign in the playoffs. This is ESPECIALLY true in the NHL.

yeah, I know, but the Canes played like crap down the stretch, so I gotta look for a glimmer of hope from somewhere

[AppGuy04]

http://www.nhl.com/news/2006/04/269348.html

This is a very good sign for the future of the game

[89Hen]

San Jose over Detriot 4-2

The Wings seem to have a jinx on them... they haven't been past round 2 since 2002. And San Jose seems to have that scoring touch. Without Thornton having to lead with the C, it seems like he has been untouchable.. plus Cheechoo and Marleau.. very dangerous team.
I just think the Wings are just too strong this year. 16 losses, only 7 on the road. Those are scary numbers. :eek:

[MYTAPPY]

I think it will be Carolina and Dallas for the Cup.
Dallas is tough too.

[TheValleyRaider]

NHL Playoffs again at last :)
Too bad the Islanders couldn't join the party again :(

East
Ottawa over Tampa Bay 4-2
The Lightning are as dangerous an 8 seed as there's ever been, but they've slipped significantly from where they were the last time the playoffs happened. Ottawa's big weakness is in net, but there's enough talent up front to out-do an inconsistent Tampa Bay.

Carolina over Montreal 4-1
Montreal's no pushover, but Carolina has played very well this season. It's an unfortunate tendency of Laviolette's to dramatically shorten his bench as the season goes on (at least it was with NYI), and the extra effort could hold the 'Canes back in the later rounds. For now, they matchup well enough with the Habs.

New Jersey over NY Rangers (SUCK!) 4-2
Both these teams have guys capable of taking over a series in Brodeur and Jagr. And while New Jersey has been red-hot down the stretch, this is not the same old Devils team that was merciless in playoffs past (losing a Scott Stevens will do that to a team). However, the Rangers have been a smoke-and-mirrors team this year in a very volitile Atlantic Division, and their lack of playoff experience will doom them to the rolling Devils.

Philadelphia over Buffalo 4-3
This is the series in the East giving me the most trouble. Buffalo can roll 4 lines at you, which makes them very hard to shutdown, while Philadelphia has two pressure-tested goalies capable of taking them a long way. If Peter Forsberg plays, the Flyers could win the East. If he doesn't, I still think they'll outlast the Sabres to reach the next round.

West
Detroit over Edmonton 4-0
Detroit's been the best team in the NHL hands down, and they are on an absolute roll entering the playoffs. Edmonton is probably the worst team in the field (no offense to the Oilers though), and Detroit will dispatch them easily.

Dallas over Colorado 4-1
Dallas has been one of those good teams that no one's talked about much this year, but they've adapted to the new NHL well, play solid hockey, and have a couple of battle-tested players. On the opposite side, Colorado played well early, but there's not enough depth on the roster to make much noise. Theodore can steal games, or a series, but so can the Stars' Turco, and he's got a better group in front of him.

Calgary over Anahiem 4-3
Best series of the opening round. The Ducks are certainly going to be good for the next few years, with Selanne, Jiggy, and Andy McDonald (Colgate alum! :hurray: ). Both of these two have experience with runs to the finals, but I'll take the Flames since I've got them as one of the top in the West

San Jose over Nashville 4-1
I like the Sharks. Especially after the Thornton pickup. Normally, I'd like Nashville too, and I certainly think they've got a team capable of making a run. But then Vokoun just went down, and unless their goalie becomes the next edition of Ken Dryden, the Predators will be waiting at least one more year for their first playoff series victory.

Obviously it all gets more difficult from there, but I'll save breakdowns for when there are actually series to see. For prediction's sake though:

New Jersey over Ottawa
Philadelphia over Carolina
Detroit over San Jose
Calgary over Dallas

Philadelphia over New Jersey
Calgary over Detriot

Calgary over Philadelphia

[89Hen]

Philadelphia over Buffalo 4-3
Philadelphia over Carolina
Philadelphia over New Jersey
Calgary over Philadelphia
:eek: Philly is going to rid themselves of the demons that are Buffalo and New Jersey, yet not win the Cup?! I wish I could agree with you on this one, but I don't see the Flyers getting past the Sabres. :bawling:

[Pard4Life]

NHL Playoffs again at last :)

New Jersey over Ottawa
Philadelphia over Carolina
Detroit over San Jose
Calgary over Dallas

Philadelphia over New Jersey
Calgary over Detriot

Calgary over Philadelphia

These matchups are impossible. Philadelphia would be the lowest remaining seed and they would have to play Ottawa. Devils cannot play Ottawa until the conference finals.

I think the Flyers going that far is questionable.. i.e. they don't have a goalie. Esche and Niittymaki have been atrocious lately. Buffalo did slump earlier in the month but they've been hot ever since. The Flyers have been slumping and Forsberg's health in questionable.

[Pard4Life]

I just think the Wings are just too strong this year. 16 losses, only 7 on the road. Those are scary numbers. :eek:

The Wings have been coasting too easily.. and that sends up a red flag for me. Detriot has posted similar gaudy numbers in the past and flopped in the playoffs. Legace has been a good regular season goalie, but what about the playoffs? If Legace plays well enough, I think the intagible for Detroit will be Stevie Y. He has been hot lately. If he can keep it up, the Wings might be hard to beat in any round. But I do believe Calgary is the number one team in the West.. if they can win that grueling matchup vs. Anahiem.

[TheValleyRaider]

These matchups are impossible. Philadelphia would be the lowest remaining seed and they would have to play Ottawa. Devils cannot play Ottawa until the conference finals.

I think the Flyers going that far is questionable.. i.e. they don't have a goalie. Esche and Niittymaki have been atrocious lately. Buffalo did slump earlier in the month but they've been hot ever since. The Flyers have been slumping and Forsberg's health in questionable.

:doh: Forgot the Rangers blew it in the end and NJ stole the division. Thought it was the other way around when I picked for the next round. Big oops on my part :o. I'm still picking Flyers-Devils for the CFs though.

Forsberg, IMO, is the key to Philly's playoff chances. IF he plays, then I think the Flyers will emerge as the best team in the East. Beating Buffalo would be (comparatively) the hardest round, as NJ is weak defensively and I'm not completely sold on Carolina winning it all just yet. I'm also banking on Esche and/or Nittymaki using their previous playoff/big game experience to take them to the level they need to be at.

Of course, even if they win the East, I'd still pick at least Calgary, San Jose and Detroit ahead of them.

[MYTAPPY]

Is anyone planning on going to a bar to check out the games tonight or just going to watch at home?

[AppGuy04]

Is anyone planning on going to a bar to check out the games tonight or just going to watch at home?

I'll be watching the tube at home. Don't know if many bars in this area are gonna show hockey games if its not the Canes

[MYTAPPY]

I'm sure if you went to a bar and said, turn it to OLN, im sure they would oblige.

[TheValleyRaider]

Still no hockey in London :bawling: so I'll have to continue following the season online.

Luckly I go back on the 16th of May, just in time for the Conference Finals. :nod:

[MYTAPPY]

Still no hockey in London :bawling: so I'll have to continue following the season online.

Luckly I go back on the 16th of May, just in time for the Conference Finals. :nod:

I hears Liverpool is playing today, you could watch that!!!

[TheValleyRaider]

I hears Liverpool is playing today, you could watch that!!!

Only sport I'm watching here is tomorrow's final North London Derby at Highbury. GO YOU GUNNERS!

Meanwhile, Colgate alum Andy McDonald (Class of '00) is on the front page of ESPN.com for the moment, headlining a list of players poised to breakout in this year's postseason. Way to go Andy! :hurray: :hurray: :hurray:

[TheValleyRaider]

Since no one's mentioned it, the playoffs began last night.

Ottawa picked up 4 third period goals to rally from an early deficit to win Game 1 over the defending Cup Champs Tampa 4-1
1-0 Senators

Detriot needs a rally to tie Edmonton before Kirk Maltby's second goal of the night in double OT got them the 3-2 win.
1-0 Red Wings

Calgary beats Anahiem in Game 1 2-1 behind Darren McCarty's OT goal.
1-0 Flames

Paul Kariya assisted on all 4 Predator goals as they held off San Jose 4-3
1-0 Predators

[TheValleyRaider]

Couple of blowouts so far today.

NJ drilled the Rangers 6-1
Colorado upset Dallas 5-2

Devils 1-0
Avalanche 1-0

AGS fan faves Carolina and Philly face off tonite at 7 EST

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lets Go Flyers!!!! Almost Game Time!!

[LeopardFan04]

Ugh...Flyers give up an early goal...hopefully they'll rebound quickly...

[Pard4Life]

Ugh...Flyers give up an early goal...hopefully they'll rebound quickly...

Gee, doesn't that sound like a traditonal Flyer goalie playoff performance.. xlolx

How many have the Flyers been through?

Antero Niittymaki
Robert Esche
Roman Chekmaneck
Brian Boucher
Garth Snow
Ronny Hextal
Dommic Rousel

Devils goalies during that time:
Marty Brouder

Go Devils!! That's why we rule the Atlantic year in and out.

[Pard4Life]

So... it's 5-1 Montreal over Carolina with minutes to play right now....

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

GOOOOOAAAAL!!! Flyers 2 Sabres 2!! late in the 3rd

[ngineer]

What an exciting game! Esche is doing a tremendous impersonation of Bernie Parent. Flyers outshot 54-25 and still tied going into a Second OT!

[LeopardFan04]

:(
Esche had a heck of a game...oh well, here's to a game 2 victory...

[TheValleyRaider]

Edmonton shocks the Red Wings in Detroit, while the Sharks shut out Nashville.

Both series tied 1-1

[AppGuy04]

I have confidence that Carolina can come back from their horrible game Saturday, but I do question Gerber. The last couple of goals he just seemed like he gave up. Carolina not having played a game that meant anything for the past couple of months may be biting them in the ass right now

[MYTAPPY]

Well it was my first NHL game and I had a blast. Granted we got it handed to us, I still had a good time. Right before the drop of the puck and when we scored (the only time we scored) the energy in that building was amazing. I can see why it is the loudest NHL arena. I see us winning tonight.

[AppGuy04]

Well it was my first NHL game and I had a blast. Granted we got it handed to us, I still had a good time. Right before the drop of the puck and when we scored (the only time we scored) the energy in that building was amazing. I can see why it is the loudest NHL arena. I see us winning tonight.

I sure hope so, going down 2-0 and the heading to the Bell Center is gonna be a tough task

[89Hen]

I can see why it is the loudest NHL arena.
That's a self-appointed title.

[AppGuy04]

Anyone see the Canes/Habs game last night?

What a game! I'm sad that my boys lost, but that place was loooooooooud, I'm still trying to find my voice this morning. So we will see how my boys respond down 2-0 and going on the road.

[MYTAPPY]

Anyone see the Canes/Habs game last night?

What a game! I'm sad that my boys lost, but that place was loooooooooud, I'm still trying to find my voice this morning. So we will see how my boys respond down 2-0 and going on the road.

I saw it on TV and was devastated. Where is the team that ended with the second best record in the east? Teams have come back from 0-2 deficits in the past, we'll see what happens Wed. night. Its not looking good.

[Ivytalk]

...the Flyers are done. They lost an 8-2 blowout to the Sabres and looked worse than the score indicated. Hitchcock blew a gasket after the game and left the press conference saying "Tell Lindy [Ruff, Sabres coach] to go f*** himself." They have no shot at coming back from a 2-0 deficit to Buffalo.

[saint0917]

GO CANADIENS up 2-0 over Carolina. :bow: :bow: :hurray: :hurray:

[AppGuy04]

I saw it on TV and was devastated. Where is the team that ended with the second best record in the east? Teams have come back from 0-2 deficits in the past, we'll see what happens Wed. night. Its not looking good.

That team was there after the 1st period, but a 3 goal hole is tough to dig out of. Cam Ward better start the rest of the series. Its gonna be tough to win the series, but they definitely played better after the 1st

[MYTAPPY]

That team was there after the 1st period, but a 3 goal hole is tough to dig out of. Cam Ward better start the rest of the series. Its gonna be tough to win the series, but they definitely played better after the 1st

They did dig out of it to take the lead and then let the Habs score two quick ones to take the lead. Our defense needs to take some of the pressure off Ward tomorrow.

[AppGuy04]

They did dig out of it to take the lead and then let the Habs score two quick ones to take the lead. Our defense needs to take some of the pressure off Ward tomorrow.

Yes, well, it took alot of energy to come back, and they just ran out of gas

[AppGuy04]

Who's mostly likely to get out of theie 2-0 hole to win the series?

Carolina
New York Rangers
Philadelphia
Dallas


honestly, I'd say either Dallas or Carolina. NY and Philly have shown no signs of life whatsoever. Dallas and Carolina both came back from 3 goal deficits only to fall short in OT and 2OT.

[MYTAPPY]

Who's mostly likely to get out of theie 2-0 hole to win the series?

Carolina
New York Rangers
Philadelphia
Dallas

honestly, I'd say either Dallas or Carolina. NY and Philly have shown no signs of life whatsoever. Dallas and Carolina both came back from 3 goal deficits only to fall short in OT and 2OT.

I tell you what AppGuy, if the 'Canes don't take game 3.......its happy trails for the boys of Carolina.

[AppGuy04]

I tell you what AppGuy, if the 'Canes don't take game 3.......its happy trails for the boys of Carolina.

This I know. Mentally, they would be gone

[89Hen]

Who's mostly likely to get out of theie 2-0 hole to win the series?

Carolina
New York Rangers
Philadelphia
Dallas
None of the above. Carolina and Dallas would have been more likely, but both are hitting the road for 3 and 4. The better question is which is most likely to avoid the sweep. :(

[TheValleyRaider]

Where did all this negativity come from? It's the frickin' PLAYOFFS!

None of these series are over. Philadelphia dropped a couple of big hits late last night, and now the coaches are yapping at one another. That's a SERIES. I watched the Islanders go down 2-0 to Toronto 4 years ago, then shift to Nassau where they rallied to tie the series (eventually went to 7). Carolina and Dallas aren't the 2nd seeds in their conference for nothing, there's still plenty of fight left there too.

The only one of these teams that's probably done is the Rangers, but that's because A) they aren't that good to begin with, and B) MSG and the Meadowlands are so close together the fan contingent isn't as series changing as the others can be.

Momentum changes quickly in hockey. It's not by coincidence that hockey's the only sport that has seen 2 teams come back from 3-0 deficits to win best-of-7 series.

[65 Pard]

Montreal will be rocking tomorrow night....wish I could see the game...Here I have to settle for play by play on XM Radio...
Doubtful the Canes can overcome the deficit......I'll be looking for tickets for the next series in Montreal..

[AppGuy04]

Montreal will be rocking tomorrow night....wish I could see the game...Here I have to settle for play by play on XM Radio...
Doubtful the Canes can overcome the deficit......I'll be looking for tickets for the next series in Montreal..

Depends which Canes team shows up. The one that dominated the Habs in the regular season and controlled game 2 after the 2nd period, or the team that was dominated in game 1. Honestly, I think that if Cam Ward is in goal, we will go back to Raleigh down 3-1 at worst, maybe 2-2

[MYTAPPY]

Montreal will be rocking tomorrow night....wish I could see the game...Here I have to settle for play by play on XM Radio...
Doubtful the Canes can overcome the deficit......I'll be looking for tickets for the next series in Montreal..

Thankfully Pard I get to watch the game on FSN South. I know the Bell Centre will be rockin', but that means we'll just have to score quick and early to take the fans out. Go 'Canes!

[89Hen]

Where did all this negativity come from?
From two losses. The Flyers have been down 0-2 eleven times in best of seven series. They did come back to win two of them, but I don't like the odds. Strangely enough, both times the Flyers came back from an 0-2 deficit they lost the first two at home and won games 3 and 4 on the road, BOTH in overtime! :eyebrow:

1977
Toronto Maple Leafs 3 at Flyers 2 L
Toronto Maple Leafs 4 at Flyers 1 L
Flyers 4 at Toronto Maple Leafs 3 OT W
Flyers 6 at Toronto Maple Leafs 5 OT W
Toronto Maple Leafs 0 at Flyers 2 W
Flyers 4 at Toronto Maple Leafs 3

2000
Pittsburgh Penguins 2 at Flyers 0 L
Pittsburgh Penguins 4 at Flyers 1 L
Flyers 4 at Pittsburgh Penguins 3 OT W
Flyers 2 at Pittsburgh Penguins 1 5OT W (One of the greatest games ever)
Pittsburgh Penguins 3 at Flyers 6 W
Flyers 2 at Pittsburgh Penguins 1 W


I guess the key for the Flyers to come back is not just to win the next two, but win them in OT.

[JohnG]

In game 4 of the 2002 series against the Habs there was the Miracle at Molson. These next two games will hopefully be known as the Beating at the Bell. Going back to Carolina even at two games each is the way I see this series going.

BTW: Does anybody else here have center ice? I'm up here in PA and they usually pick up the home teams feed but last game they had the CBC feed instead of the FSN South feed, hopefully they'll put Tripp and John on for at least one of the games in Canada.

[JohnG]

GOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLl CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!!

[AppGuy04]

GOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLl CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!! CANES WIN!!!

Yeah, Staaly won it for us. Huet said he never saw it and knew it was bad knews when the over 21,000 fans went silent. Bring it home 2-2 boys and the fans will reward you, trust me

[MYTAPPY]

Way to go 'Canes!!!!! :hurray: :hurray:
I'm ready for game 4 to be here.
NHL Playoffs...you got to love it.

[AppGuy04]

Last night's results:

Hurricanes beats the Habs 2-1 in OT to bring the series to 2-1 Montreal lead. (This series has had 2 of the best games in the playoffs thus far)

Devils beat the Rangers 3-0 to take a 3-0 lead in the series. (This series look like it will be the first to end)

Philly beat Buffalo 4-2 to bring the series to 2-1 Buffalo. (Shows how important and how dangerous Philly can be with Forsberg playing well)

Colorado beat Dallas 4-3 in OT. Colorado now leads the series 3-0. (Dallas has played well, but have not yet pulled one out. They have lost the last 2 games in OT)

[AppGuy04]

Tonight's games:

Ottawa vs Tampa- Ottawa leads 2-1
Last game showed just how potent Ottawa's offense is. I see the same continuing.

Edmonton vs Detroit- Edmonton leads 2-1
Probably the biggest shocker so far in the playoffs. I see Detroit coming out and showing they mean business and evening the series.

Anaheim vs Calgary- Calgary leads 2-1
Jarome Iginla needs to have a big game, he has played well, but not up to snub.

San Jose vs Nashville- San Jose leads 2-1
Joe Thornton-see above for Iginla. This game is at the Tank, so I don't see Nashville coming out with the series even.

[MYTAPPY]

Colorado beat Dallas 4-3 in OT. Colorado now leads the series 3-0. (Dallas has played well, but have not yet pulled one out. They have lost the last 2 games in OT)[/QUOTE]

The Stars have had a couple of chances to close games out in this series but couldn't quite do it.

[AppGuy04]

The Stars have had a couple of chances to close games out in this series but couldn't quite do it.

Turco has been horrible. He has let in alot of soft goals

[Pards Rule]

CANES WIN!!!!!!!!! LETS GO CANES!!!

[MYTAPPY]

Koivu is a good player. I know Justin Williams didn't mean to do, but look for him to be booed all night long tomorrow.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/news/story?id=2424027

[AppGuy04]

Koivu is a good player. I know Justin Williams didn't mean to do, but look for him to be booed all night long tomorrow.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/news/story?id=2424027

Koivu's head was almost as low as Justin's waist, they didn't call a penalty b/c it wasn't a penalty. Sucks for Saku, but tis hockey, see Erik Cole, now thats bad luck

[AppGuy04]

Last nights results:

Ottawa beats Tampa 5-2 and takes 3-1 lead in the series.
- Tampa lead 2-1 after the 1st but fell apart against the Ottawa offensive juggernaut


Detroit beats Edmonton 4-2 to tie the series at 2-2
- Detroit didn't and hasn't played particularly well this series but they even it up and you can't ask for much more right now


Anaheim beats Calgary 3-2 in OT to even the series 2-2
- Best game of the night hands down. I love goalie battles


San Jose beat Nashville 5-4 to take 3-1 lead in the series
- Patrick Marleau has a hat trick and has been the man where Joe Thornton hasn't played well

[AppGuy04]

Tonight's games:

Only 3 on the slate tonight. New York & New Jersey I'm sure are playing saturday b/c of TV deals. They will be on NBC Saturday at 3pm

Carolina @ Montreal- Montreal leads series 2-1
This is the most crucial game of the series. Montreal could put it out of reach, or the Canes could go back home with a tie and regain home ice advantage. I see the Canes winning this one and evening the series, and going back home to a racous RBC Center


Buffalo @ Philly- Buffalo leads series 2-1
See above for game status. Home ice has held in this series and I don't see it changing, it will go back to Buffalo tied 2-2


Dallas @ Colorado- Colorado leads series 3-0
This could be the first series to end. Colorado has dominated this series and a dejected Dallas team won't break through on the road. Colorado will end this series tonight

[Pards Rule]

CANES WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!

[AppGuy04]

CANES WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!
wait til about 10:30 tonight bro

[89Hen]

ESPN's Scott Burnside predictions:
East:
Ottawa/Tampa Bay- Lightning in 7
Carolina/Montreal- Canes in 5
New York R/New Jersey- Rangers in 7

West:
Colorado/Dallas- Stars in 5
Ouch :doh:

[MYTAPPY]

Note to self: When you go to Vegas, don' take Scott Burnside with you.

[JohnG]

In game 4 of the 2002 series against the Habs there was the Miracle at Molson. These next two games will hopefully be known as the Beating at the Bell. Going back to Carolina even at two games each is the way I see this series going.

BTW: Does anybody else here have center ice? I'm up here in PA and they usually pick up the home teams feed but last game they had the CBC feed instead of the FSN South feed, hopefully they'll put Tripp and John on for at least one of the games in Canada.

Did I call it or what?

GO CANES!!!!!:hurray: :hurray:

[AppGuy04]

CANES WIN! GOING BACK HOME TIED 2-2

[TheValleyRaider]

Where did all this negativity come from? It's the frickin' PLAYOFFS!

None of these series are over.

Carolina 2-2 Montreal
Buffalo 2-2 Philadelphia

I'm not usually one to say I told you so, but well... :rotateh:

[TheValleyRaider]

For the remainder of the First Round:

East
I toyed with picking either TB or NYR to steal their respective games today and push the series one farther, so I'll take the Lightning forcing a Game 6 (keeps my prediction there closer to being right :D ). (Originally Ott 4-2 and NJ 4-2)

I like the Hurricanes to use their mo' from Montreal backed up by their crowd to take control of this series, Carolina in 6. (Originally Car 4-1).

I'm still picking Buffalo-Philly to go 7,still picking the Flyers, as they'll steal one of the remaining games in Buffalo. (Originally Phi 4-3)

West
The Oilers have two more good fight left in them, I think, but that's only enough for two more close defeats. Detroit in 6. (Originally Det 4-0)

The Dallas-Colorado series perplexes me. On the one hand, Dallas is the better team overall, yet they now find themselves unenviably down 3-1 after their Game 4 victory. Just a hunch, but they force Game 6 and make the Avs sweat before they get put away in OT in Denver. (Originally Dal 4-1)

Calgary-Anaheim still goes 7, and the Flames still win.

San Jose wins tonight, they move on like I predicted, 4-1 Sharks.

[AppGuy04]

Devils complete the sweep of the Rangers with a 4-2 win today

[ngineer]

Flyers seem to really have some momentum going. I sense a 'steal' tomorrow in Buffalo and they close it out back in Philly...:nod:

[AppGuy04]

Flyers seem to really have some momentum going. I sense a 'steal' tomorrow in Buffalo and they close it out back in Philly...:nod:


way off my friend, Flyers didn't even show up for game 5, get shutout 3-0 and go down 3-2 in the series

[AppGuy04]

Canes win! 2-1! Go up 3-2 in the series!

[AppGuy04]

4 teams have now closed out their series after last night

East
#1 Senators
#3 Devils

West
#5 Sharks
#7 Avalanche

Edmonton and Calgary have a chance to close out Detroit and Anaheim respectively. I think Detroit and Anaheim will both win and force a game 7

[MYTAPPY]

Sorry Les Habitants, but we advance on your ice Tuesday night.
Go Canes!

[Pards Rule]

GO CANES!!!!!!! CANES WIN!!!

[Pards Rule]

GO CANES!!!!!!! CANES WIN!!!

[Pard4Life]

GO CANES!!!!!!! CANES WIN!!!

Regardless, the Devils are winning the East. Montreal had more than a chance to win that series but Koviu's injury did them in, i.e. Jagr and the Rangers.

[Ivytalk]

Regardless, the Devils are winning the East. Montreal had more than a chance to win that series but Koviu's injury did them in, i.e. Jagr and the Rangers.


I agree. I don't see any Eastern team stopping Brodeur and company.

[AppGuy04]

I don't believe what I just saw. Detroit gave up a 3 goal lead in the 3rd period to lose 4-3 and get eliminated. Absolutely amazing!

[griz37]

Go Oilers!! It would be great to see the Oilers & Flames go against it each other. Would bring back lots of memories of some of the great battles they waged in the mid to late 80's.

[AppGuy04]

Anaheim comes back and beats Calgary 2-1, evening up the series 3 all

[AppGuy04]

Tonights Games:

The Hurricanes and Sabres try to finish off the Habs and Flyers, respectively. Both games are at the trailing team.

I see the Canes closing the series out, and the Flyers tying the series at home.

[AppGuy04]

http://images.sportsline.com/u/gettyimages/photos/57416028TS018_RedWings_Oile042802_1024x768.jpg

[Pard4Life]

Go Oilers!! It would be great to see the Oilers & Flames go against it each other. Would bring back lots of memories of some of the great battles they waged in the mid to late 80's.

Oilers rock! But I'd want to see the Flames win the battle of Alberta.. Flames-Devils final would be sweet.

At least I can celebrate with the Oilers though.. aside from owning a Devils jersey, I have an Oilers jersey as well.. souvenir from Canada, 2000. I've worn it watching some playoff games. :p

[Pards Rule]

GO CANES!!!!!!!!!

[Pard4Life]

GO CANES!!!!!!!!!

Why no Flyer affiliation Pards? :eyebrow:

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

7-1 at home to Buffalo!?!?!?!
Well the Flyers were absolutely pathetic. I went out for a little bit at the 4 minute mark of the 2nd, i'd seen enough. I've never seen such inept play in ones own zone in my life. They couldn't clear the puck, sat back on their heels and couldn't pick up a cutter to the net to save their lives. I look forward to the Flyers playoff games more than just about any of my sports teams events. This was just brutal. I know injuries took their tole but intelligent fundamental play with the talent that was still on the roster should have given them a chance in this series. I never seem a hockey team just do nothing to help themselves. Their forwards missed the net about 500 times in this series. I coule go on a rant but i'll stop. Clarky's gotta rethink Hitchcocks status after this debacle.

[JohnG]

How Bout them CANES, eh?

[AppGuy04]

Canes close out the Habs in OT. Cam Ward was absolutely great.

As for Philly, did someone spike their Gatorade?

[Ivytalk]

7-1 at home to Buffalo!?!?!?!
Well the Flyers were absolutely pathetic. I went out for a little bit at the 4 minute mark of the 2nd, i'd seen enough. I've never seen such inept play in ones own zone in my life. They couldn't clear the puck, sat back on their heels and couldn't pick up a cutter to the net to save their lives. I look forward to the Flyers playoff games more than just about any of my sports teams events. This was just brutal. I know injuries took their tole but intelligent fundamental play with the talent that was still on the roster should have given them a chance in this series. I never seem a hockey team just do nothing to help themselves. Their forwards missed the net about 500 times in this series. I coule go on a rant but i'll stop. Clarky's gotta rethink Hitchcocks status after this debacle.

I think Clarke is the real problem. Hockey has passed him by: the new emphasis is on speed, not size, and the Flyers have missed the boat. But they'll never fire him because he's a "Philadelphia institution."

[Ivytalk]

7-1 at home to Buffalo!?!?!?!
Well the Flyers were absolutely pathetic. I went out for a little bit at the 4 minute mark of the 2nd, i'd seen enough. I've never seen such inept play in ones own zone in my life. They couldn't clear the puck, sat back on their heels and couldn't pick up a cutter to the net to save their lives. I look forward to the Flyers playoff games more than just about any of my sports teams events. This was just brutal. I know injuries took their tole but intelligent fundamental play with the talent that was still on the roster should have given them a chance in this series. I never seem a hockey team just do nothing to help themselves. Their forwards missed the net about 500 times in this series. I coule go on a rant but i'll stop. Clarky's gotta rethink Hitchcocks status after this debacle.

I think Clarke is the real problem. Hockey has passed him by: the new emphasis is on speed, not size, and the Flyers have missed the boat. But they'll never fire him because he's a "Philadelphia institution."

[Pards Rule]

Why no Flyer affiliation Pards? :eyebrow:

Good question, Pard. I am old enough to remember the 74 & 75 Cup wins and I guess I am OD on some Philly sports, particularly Flyers & Phils. It seems the recent rabidinous rooting of both these sets of fans has no basis in reality (just affirmed by the Flyers trouncing at the hands of the Sabres) and has incurred my displeasure.

[Pards Rule]

By the way, you heard it here first: CANES WIN!!!

[MYTAPPY]

Bring on the Devils!!!

[89Hen]

I'm embarrassed to say I haven't really been paying attention to the West this year, but IMO these two East predictions are way off. I think Ottawa and the Devils will easily win these series. I can see the Canes and Sabres :bawling: winning, but the Rangers are in free-fall while the Devils are the hottest team in the NHL. Brodeur is playing like, well... Brodeur and they are a completely different team since Lamoriello scrambled the lines up.
Excuse me while I tear my rotator cuff patting myself on the back for the above prediction. Does anyone want to know who will be playing in the Eastern finals? :p

[AppGuy04]

Excuse me while I tear my rotator cuff patting myself on the back for the above prediction. Does anyone want to know who will be playing in the Eastern finals? :p

ok Swam, who?

[Pard4Life]

By the way, you heard it here first: CANES WIN!!!

xlolx

[Pard4Life]

Bring on the Devils!!!

Devils in six.

Carolina wins game one, Devils take two, three, four, Carolina takes 5, Devils take game 6 in NJ. Broduer's GAA raises to 1.50 cumulative, earns another shutout.

[Pards Rule]

Pard, you homer!

[MYTAPPY]

89Hen, I'm taking you to vegas with me. Canes in 6!

[Pards Rule]

YES TO THE CANES!!!

[Ivytalk]

Devils in six.

Carolina wins game one, Devils take two, three, four, Carolina takes 5, Devils take game 6 in NJ. Broduer's GAA raises to 1.50 cumulative, earns another shutout.

Sounds good to me. Brodeur and company will send Canes fans back to their ACC hoops media guides.

[Pard4Life]

YES TO THE CANES!!!

Pard, let me familiarize you with a word all Lehigh fans know well in regards to the Canes....

OVERATED!! :rotateh:

[AppGuy04]

Oh, Calgary, losing 3-0 at home in game 7, that was pathetic

But.....this is the first time that all 4 bottom seeds have advanced in either conference in NHL history

[AppGuy04]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/playoffs;_ylt=Ap.8crrBUbMqYWernm9.7C17vLYF?round=2

Conference Semi Schedule:

Friday:
Game 1- Buffalo @ Ottawa
Game 1- Colorado @ Anaheim

Saturday:
Game 1- NJ @ Carolina

Sunday:
Game 1- Edmonton @ San Jose

[89Hen]

this is the first time that all 4 bottom seeds have advanced in either conference in NHL history
And the 4 top seeds in the East. That has to say something. Not sure what it is, but something. Was the West deeper? The East top teams stronger? Just a fluke?

[AppGuy04]

And the 4 top seeds in the East. That has to say something. Not sure what it is, but something. Was the West deeper? The East top teams stronger? Just a fluke?

I think the East was just top heavy. The West, other than Detroit, was a battle all the way. Ofcourse, doesn't mean anything now. That President's Cup curse is a bitch

[Pard4Life]

And the 4 top seeds in the East. That has to say something. Not sure what it is, but something. Was the West deeper? The East top teams stronger? Just a fluke?

The west was definetely stronger. Vancouver failed to make the playoffs with 92 points. Los Angeles was not far behind. And Minnesota finished in last place in the Northwest with a winning record and not far behnid the 8th seed.

[Pard4Life]

Oh, Calgary, losing 3-0 at home in game 7, that was pathetic

But.....this is the first time that all 4 bottom seeds have advanced in either conference in NHL history

That was definetely disappointing. I wanted to see Flames-Devils.

Think it will pan out..

Edmonton in 7.
Anahiem in 5.

Buffalo in 7.
Devils in 6.

Devils over Buffalo in 7.

Edmonton over Anahiem in 7.

Devils over Oilers in 5.

Devils win the Cup!!:rotateh:

[89Hen]

ok Swam, who?

Devils and Sabres

[AppGuy04]

Devils and Sabres

we shall see

also, NHL announces its award finalists:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=2433308

The complete list of award finalists as released by the NHL on Thursday. The NHL awards ceremony will be held on June 22 in Vancouver:

CALDER MEMORIAL TROPHY (outstanding rookie)
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins; Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals; Dion Phaneuf, Calgary Flames.

FRANK J. SELKE TROPHY (outstanding defensive forward)
Rod Brind'Amour, Carolina Hurricanes; Mike Fisher, Ottawa Senators; Jere Lehtinen, Dallas Stars.

HART MEMORIAL TROPHY (most valuable player to his team)
Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers; Miikka Kiprusoff, Calgary Flames; Joe Thornton, San Jose Sharks.

JACK ADAMS AWARD (outstanding coach)
Peter Laviolette, Carolina Hurricanes; Tom Renney, New York Rangers; Lindy Ruff, Buffalo Sabres.

JAMES NORRIS MEMORIAL TROPHY (outstanding defenseman)
Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit Red Wings; Scott Niedermayer, Anaheim Mighty Ducks; Sergei Zubov, Dallas Stars.

LADY BYNG MEMORIAL TROPHY (sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct)
Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings; Patrick Marleau, San Jose Sharks; Brad Richards , Tampa Bay Lightning.

LESTER B. PEARSON AWARD (most outstanding player as voted by fellow members of the NHLPA)
Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers; Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals; Joe Thornton, San Jose Sharks.

VEZINA TROPHY (outstanding goaltender)
Martin Brodeur, New Jersey Devils; Miikka Kiprusoff, Calgary Flames; Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers.

[TheValleyRaider]

So let's see how this went:

East
Ottawa over Tampa Bay 4-2
Close, Ottawa got the momentum and only need 5 :)
Carolina over Montreal 4-1
Close, Montreal taking 2 in Raleigh was surprising, but Carolina fought back :)
New Jersey over NY Rangers (SUCK!) 4-2
A little off, I just underestimated how much the Rangers SUCK! :D
Philadelphia over Buffalo 4-3
Well, it was predicated on Forsberg being healthy... :o

West
Detroit over Edmonton 4-0
Did I say that? Really? :bang:
Dallas over Colorado 4-1
Well, it was 4-1... :doh:
Calgary over Anahiem 4-3
Seven games, but Andy MacDonald moves on, so who cares?! :hurray:
San Jose over Nashville 4-1
Nailed it! :nod:

So, in picking winners I was 4 of 8
In # of games, I was 3 of 8 (I did technically pick Col-Dal to go 5 and Cal-Ana 7)

Unfortunatly I lost my Cup pick in the Flames, so it's back to the drawing board... :read:

[Pard4Life]

we shall see

also, NHL announces its award finalists:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=2433308

The complete list of award finalists as released by the NHL on Thursday. The NHL awards ceremony will be held on June 22 in Vancouver:

CALDER MEMORIAL TROPHY (outstanding rookie)
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins; Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals; Dion Phaneuf, Calgary Flames.

FRANK J. SELKE TROPHY (outstanding defensive forward)
Rod Brind'Amour, Carolina Hurricanes; Mike Fisher, Ottawa Senators; Jere Lehtinen, Dallas Stars.

HART MEMORIAL TROPHY (most valuable player to his team)
Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers; Miikka Kiprusoff, Calgary Flames; Joe Thornton, San Jose Sharks.

JACK ADAMS AWARD (outstanding coach)
Peter Laviolette, Carolina Hurricanes; Tom Renney, New York Rangers; Lindy Ruff, Buffalo Sabres.

JAMES NORRIS MEMORIAL TROPHY (outstanding defenseman)
Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit Red Wings; Scott Niedermayer, Anaheim Mighty Ducks; Sergei Zubov, Dallas Stars.

LADY BYNG MEMORIAL TROPHY (sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct)
Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings; Patrick Marleau, San Jose Sharks; Brad Richards , Tampa Bay Lightning.

LESTER B. PEARSON AWARD (most outstanding player as voted by fellow members of the NHLPA)
Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers; Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals; Joe Thornton, San Jose Sharks.

VEZINA TROPHY (outstanding goaltender)
Martin Brodeur, New Jersey Devils; Miikka Kiprusoff, Calgary Flames; Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers.

My picks:

Calder- Ovechkin
Selke- Lehtinen
MVP- Jagr
Jack Adams- Lindy Ruff
Norris- Niedermeyer
Byng- Richards
Pearson- Jagr
Vezina- Miikka

[89Hen]

CALDER MEMORIAL TROPHY (outstanding rookie)
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins; Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals; Dion Phaneuf, Calgary Flames.
If there ever was a one horse race. There is no way in God's green Earth that Ovechkin doesn't win this. He was silly beyond silly on a really crappy team. Yes the Pens sucked too, but Crosby was still on a good line. Ovechkin had zero help all year and was a one man highlight reel. :nod:

[AppGuy04]

Honestly, I believe the MVP is a one horse race, but thats just my opinion. The difference Joe Thornton made was night and day.

Roddy and Peter deserve those awards, but don't think they will get them

[AppGuy04]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2433072

Not sure if I want Burnside picking us to win

He also picks Ottawa in 7, Edmonton in 7, and Colorado in 6

I would agree with those, except I think San Jose will beat Edmonton

[MYTAPPY]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2006/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=2433072

Not sure if I want Burnside picking us to win


I agree, didn't he pick Dallas to be in the Finals :doh:

[AppGuy04]

Barry Melrose pick Carolina in 7 as well on his ESPN Motion video

Other picks by Melrose:
Ottawa in 6
Colorado in 7
Edmonton in 7

[TheValleyRaider]

Conference Semifinals Picks

East
Ottawa over Buffalo 4-2
Both teams played well in the first round, but what really impressed me was how well Emery stepped up in net for the Sens. I'm starting to wonder if this could be their year to break through. Nothing against the Sabres though, I just think Ottawa's better.

Carolina over New Jersey 4-3
It hurts to put the top 2 seeds into the finals, but I'm gonna do it. As hot as NJ is, they took advantage of a very weak Rangers team. Carolina got by an earlier hot goalie in Huet, but Brodeur is slightly more battle-tested. Still, I think the Canes outlast the Devils here.

West
San Jose over Edmonton 4-1
Is this really fair to the Oilers given the way they completely outdid Detroit in the last round? Not really, but then again with Thornton all season the Sharks are probably Division Champs and not the 5th Seed. They're on a role, and will be back in the finals.

Anahiem over Colorado 4-2
Not quite sure what to make of the Avalanche. I'm still not convinced they're that good of a team, but then again they just dismantled Dallas in the first round. Still, the Ducks have a great core, good top line players, Andy MacDonald :hurray: and Jiggy. An all-California affair in the West.

Revised Cup Pick
Carolina over Ottawa
San Jose over Anahiem
San Jose over Carolina

[Pard4Life]

How come Burnside and Melrose never know waht they are talking about?

[AppGuy04]

How come Burnside and Melrose never know waht they are talking about?

Melrose is usually pretty spot on.

Althought, it doesn't really matter, b/c they get paid to make "predictions" and spew "analysis"

[TheValleyRaider]

Surprised no one has commented on the games yet.

On Friday:
Sabres score 18 sec. into the OT to win a wild one in Ottawa; Buffalo 1-0
The Ducks shut out Colorado 5-0; Anahiem 1-0

Today:
The Hurricanes dropped the hammer on Brodeur and the Devils, 8-0; Carolina 1-0

Edmonton at San Jose is tomorrow

[TheValleyRaider]

So who needs Jiggy when you've got this guy: http://espn-att.starwave.com/i/nhl/profiles/players/2594.jpg

That's Anahiem goalie Ilya Bryzgalov, who currently owns a 3 game shutout streak after today's 3-0 win over the Avalanche.

He has a total shutout streak of 229:42, a new Ducks playoff record.

Anahiem leads the series 2-0

[AppGuy04]

It was actually 6-0 Carolina over New Jersey

Bryzgalov is now 5th on the all time list for longest shutout streaks in the playoffs

Series stand at:

Carolina up 1-0 on New Jersey OLN
Next game: Tonight(5/8) 7:30pm
I expect New Jersey to come out swinging in this one, and to test Cam Ward. If Carolina can survive the opening few minutes, this game should be more even than the first.

Buffalo up 1-0 on Ottawa
Next game: Tonight(5/8) 7:00pm OLN
Historic game 1, who knows what game 2 holds. I know that Ottawa was very sloppy with the puck in game 1, hence, how they lost. If they do not correct that, this will be a short series.

San Jose up 1-0 on Edmonton
Next game: Tonight(5/8) 10:30pm OLN
Very even game 1, this series is probably the tightest of them all.

Anaheim up 2-0 on Colorado
Next game: Tuesday(5/9) 8:00pm
Anaheim has dominated this series on both sides. They have pretty much scored at will on Theodore, and Bryzgalov is fast becoming a record setting goalie

[Pards Rule]

CANES WIN!!!!!!!

[Pard4Life]

CANES WIN!!!!!!!

Game 1 hardly predicts the winner is a series.

[MYTAPPY]

Game 1 hardly predicts the winner is a series.

true.........Canes win series in 6.

[Pards Rule]

Canes in 6

[Pard4Life]

true.........Canes win series in 6.

xlolx we'll see

My bold prediction is the Devils win tonight either 2-1 or 2-0.

[AppGuy04]

xlolx we'll see

My bold prediction is the Devils win tonight either 2-1 or 2-0.

In the 1st round, the winner of Game 1 was 4-4, the winner of game 5, however was 6-1

[Pard4Life]

In the 1st round, the winner of Game 1 was 4-4, the winner of game 5, however was 6-1

Yup, they stated that fact on Saturday. Thus the Canes have an equal chance of losing as the Devils.

I am also certain those stats are similiar over the past decade.

[AppGuy04]

Yup, they stated that fact on Saturday. Thus the Canes have an equal chance of losing as the Devils.

I am also certain those stats are similiar over the past decade.

I'm sure that these 2 teams are a little more even than game 1 indicated, however, NJ has definitely dug themselves a hole in the series, both hockey wise and mentally. I'm also sure that they will come out firing in the first period of game 2. If Carolina can survive that, then they should be fine.

[MYTAPPY]

Can anyone score on that Mighty Duck goalie?
I hope we don't have to face him in the finals. (Hoping that we get there)

[AppGuy04]

Can anyone score on that Mighty Duck goalie?
I hope we don't have to face him in the finals. (Hoping that we get there)
What goes up, must come down, HARD!

[JohnG]

I like the Canes in 5. Clinching a playoff series at home for the first time ever. I think the Canes will win 3-2 in 1OT tonight

[JohnG]

I think the Canes will win 3-2 in 1OT tonight

I don't mean to say I called it. But I called it.

Thats a Carolina Hurricanes Win!! Woooooo Wooooo Woooooo!!!!!

[AppGuy04]

I don't mean to say I called it. But I called it.

Thats a Carolina Hurricanes Win!! Woooooo Wooooo Woooooo!!!!!

Best game of the playoffs thus far, hands down, 2 goals in the last 20 seconds, amazing!!!

2-0 baby

[MYTAPPY]

Bring on those Cane Haters and JohnG, you're coming with me to Vegas. Good Call!!
GO CANES!!!!!

[Pard4Life]

[QUOTE=AppGuy04]Best game of the playoffs thus far, hands down, 2 goals in the last 20 seconds, amazing!!!
[QUOTE]

I hope you mean the best games for the Canes... clearly not the best in the entire playoffs... i'd give that to Detriot-Edmonton game 6.

Game 2 was a fluke win for Carolina. Brouder never usually makes stupid mistakes and he is always meticulous with his stick. I think the second goal slipped through the 5-hole and that should have been avoided if he was setup properly. Nothing more than a lucky bounce but those sadly win games. Madden did win that final faceoff but it went all the way into the corner. If a D-man picks that up and dumps it into the Carolina zone it's over. Furthermore the Devils didn't hit anybody or try to trap the puck in the final seconds. And frankly I don't buy the Cam Ward hype. He seriously has done nothing to impress except that one armpit save in game one.. and that was thanks to 'goaltending 101' positioning.

This series by far is not over but the Devils must win game 3. They have not had a home game since game 2 two weeks ago so that might be a boost.

[MYTAPPY]

If you want to talk about luck Pard.........what about the lucky deflection that led to NJ second goal. And Cam Ward is undefeated so far, I believe that deserves a little notice. The flying leg pad save (which you don't see much of anymore) was amazing as well. I think that was in Game 4 too. It is 'Goaltending 101' to keep your five whole closed, which Martin failed to do. Also that Goaltending 101 has won 6 in a row.

[Pard4Life]

If you want to talk about luck Pard.........what about the lucky deflection that led to NJ second goal. And Cam Ward is undefeated so far, I believe that deserves a little notice. The flying leg pad save (which you don't see much of anymore) was amazing as well. I think that was in Game 4 too. It is 'Goaltending 101' to keep your five whole closed, which Martin failed to do. Also that Goaltending 101 has won 6 in a row.

That was not luck the stick was positioned directly in shooting lane. The Devils practice this and execute this all the time. The fact that he was skating by fast with his stick out makes it look lucky, but it wasn't. Also Cam Ward's undefeated record coincides with Montreal's collapse and Koivu's injury. If Koivu stayed healthy the Canes might not have made it past round 1. Koivu is to the Habs what Brind'Amour is to the Canes. And you don't keep your five hole close all the time, particualry when you are along the ice. It causes the goalie to become imobile. You place your stick in front to shield it but it can never be closed... unless the goalie plays the crouch/standup stance but that has been disfavored for the butterfly. The winning goal was nice though.. i'll call it the putter shot. I've seen alot of shooters try that this year on breakaways and shootouts. It really works and confuses the goalie. Also the Devils just need to crash the net more and create traffic for Ward. Everyone was awestruck by the inane Giguere phenomeon three years ago. The reason the Ducks won was because nobody ever repitively put bodies in front of Giguere. The same thing is true with Ward. He is not an all-star, he just needs to be distracted and he will flounder.

So far I'll credit the Devils two losses to beating themselves.

[AppGuy04]

[QUOTE=AppGuy04]Best game of the playoffs thus far, hands down, 2 goals in the last 20 seconds, amazing!!!
[QUOTE]

I hope you mean the best games for the Canes... clearly not the best in the entire playoffs... i'd give that to Detriot-Edmonton game 6.

Game 2 was a fluke win for Carolina. Brouder never usually makes stupid mistakes and he is always meticulous with his stick. I think the second goal slipped through the 5-hole and that should have been avoided if he was setup properly. Nothing more than a lucky bounce but those sadly win games. Madden did win that final faceoff but it went all the way into the corner. If a D-man picks that up and dumps it into the Carolina zone it's over. Furthermore the Devils didn't hit anybody or try to trap the puck in the final seconds. And frankly I don't buy the Cam Ward hype. He seriously has done nothing to impress except that one armpit save in game one.. and that was thanks to 'goaltending 101' positioning.

This series by far is not over but the Devils must win game 3. They have not had a home game since game 2 two weeks ago so that might be a boost.

oh, I'm sorry, I forgot we were talking about Brodeur, PLEASE!

he's been scored on 9 times in 2 games, when is this luck crap gonna end, sure some of the goals were lucky, but Carolina has dominated the first 2 games, its a matter of time before a goal goes in when the shots are that lopsided. How about you start giving Carolina and Cam Ward some credit instead of riding Brodeur's d1ck b/c he's Brodeur

[AppGuy04]

That was not luck the stick was positioned directly in shooting lane. The Devils practice this and execute this all the time. The fact that he was skating by fast with his stick out makes it look lucky, but it wasn't. Also Cam Ward's undefeated record coincides with Montreal's collapse and Koivu's injury. If Koivu stayed healthy the Canes might not have made it past round 1. Koivu is to the Habs what Brind'Amour is to the Canes. And you don't keep your five hole close all the time, particualry when you are along the ice. It causes the goalie to become imobile. You place your stick in front to shield it but it can never be closed... unless the goalie plays the crouch/standup stance but that has been disfavored for the butterfly. The winning goal was nice though.. i'll call it the putter shot. I've seen alot of shooters try that this year on breakaways and shootouts. It really works and confuses the goalie. Also the Devils just need to crash the net more and create traffic for Ward. Everyone was awestruck by the inane Giguere phenomeon three years ago. The reason the Ducks won was because nobody ever repitively put bodies in front of Giguere. The same thing is true with Ward. He is not an all-star, he just needs to be distracted and he will flounder.

So far I'll credit the Devils two losses to beating themselves.

I don't care who you are, 6-0 is not beating yourself

[MYTAPPY]

Luck is definitly a part of hockey. That may be a play that NJ practices when they scored thier second goal, but I bet you they didn't plan the puck to also hit off Comodores stick. Koivu is a beast and maybe losing him did slow the Habs. Ask the Habs if the they think the reason they lost the series is due to losing Koivu, they would say no. We lost Eric Cole and we haven't faltered yet. When you lose a player like that, people have to step up. That Koivu excuse doesn't float. To not give credit to Carolina for any of there wins in these playoffs is crazy.

[AppGuy04]

They have been outscored 9-2, that is not luck, STFU

[MYTAPPY]

They have been outscored 9-2, that is not luck, STFU

Im on your side AppGuy.....don't shoot.......

[AppGuy04]

Im on your side AppGuy.....don't shoot.......

I'm not talking about you, I'm talking about these fools saying that being outscored 9-2 in 2 games is a fluke

[AppGuy04]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/recap?gameId=260508007

Carolina has won six in a row after dropping the first two playoff games to Montreal in the opening round, when Cam Ward replaced Martin Gerber in net during the first period of Game 2. Now, the 22-year-old rookie is only the third NHL goalie to win his first six postseason starts.

[89Hen]

Best game of the playoffs thus far, hands down, 2 goals in the last 20 seconds, amazing!!!


I hope you mean the best games for the Canes... clearly not the best in the entire playoffs... i'd give that to Detriot-Edmonton game 6.
I wouldn't even say it was the best game the Canes were involved in either. Game 2 of the first round was far more entertaining than last night IMO. 3-0 Canadiens, then 4-3 Canes, 5-4 Habs, 5-5 end of regulation... that's a silly game.

[AppGuy04]

I wouldn't even say it was the best game the Canes were involved in either. Game 2 of the first round was far more entertaining than last night IMO. 3-0 Canadiens, then 4-3 Canes, 5-4 Habs, 5-5 end of regulation... that's a silly game.

Well, as far as emotions go, I went from dejected to crazy excited in 17 seconds

[MYTAPPY]

I jumped up and screamed so loud that I scared my dog...xlolx

[AppGuy04]

I jumped up and screamed so loud that I scared my dog...xlolx

hahahaha, me too

[Pard4Life]

I don't care who you are, 6-0 is not beating yourself

Well it is if you don't show up to play and just waltz around the ice. Carolina is a good team so they pounced on that. This is the playoffs.. if you show an inclination of slacking for one minute you are in big trouble.. i.e. the Devils. The Devils are not getting that many chances and they are thinking too much.. beating themselves... i.e. holding the puck on the power play, no cohesive flow on offense, not shooting when they have an open shot 5on5. What were the shots over the last two periods... 20-7 Carolina or something? Carolina is very fast and the Devils are just chasing them around instead of positioning themselves properly and try to make some plays. When they did that, they got some quality shots, but they are not being aggressive enough to do it presistently. Carolina is being aggressive and the Devils are not matching it. They are not giving themselves an opportunity to win.

[Pard4Life]

I jumped up and screamed so loud that I scared my dog...xlolx

Yeah that was a nice goal i'll admit that :bawling:

[AppGuy04]

Well it is if you don't show up to play and just waltz around the ice. Carolina is a good team so they pounced on that. This is the playoffs.. if you show an inclination of slacking for one minute you are in big trouble.. i.e. the Devils. The Devils are not getting that many chances and they are thinking too much.. beating themselves... i.e. holding the puck on the power play, no cohesive flow on offense, not shooting when they have an open shot 5on5. What were the shots over the last two periods... 20-7 Carolina or something? Carolina is very fast and the Devils are just chasing them around instead of positioning themselves properly and try to make some plays. When they did that, they got some quality shots, but they are not being aggressive enough to do it presistently. Carolina is being aggressive and the Devils are not matching it. They are not giving themselves an opportunity to win.

You are giving Carolina zero credit, maybe, just maybe, they are a better team than NJ, ever think of that?

[Pard4Life]

Luck is definitly a part of hockey. That may be a play that NJ practices when they scored thier second goal, but I bet you they didn't plan the puck to also hit off Comodores stick. Koivu is a beast and maybe losing him did slow the Habs. Ask the Habs if the they think the reason they lost the series is due to losing Koivu, they would say no. We lost Eric Cole and we haven't faltered yet. When you lose a player like that, people have to step up. That Koivu excuse doesn't float. To not give credit to Carolina for any of there wins in these playoffs is crazy.

Carolina is a much deeper team so they can weather an injury to Cole and probably another key guy. The Koivu reason does float.. he was their emotional leader and team icon you could say. When you lose that, and you are young and not as deep as Carolina, it definetely hurts. I do give Carolina credit for the wins because they took advantage of a team that is slacking. The playoffs is survival of the fittest, not the fanciest team.. Detroit is not here remember.

[Pard4Life]

You are giving Carolina zero credit, maybe, just maybe, they are a better team than NJ, ever think of that?

No I am.. like the post above. Otherwise it's very subtle and in between the lines.

[AppGuy04]

No I am.. like the post above. Otherwise it's very subtle and in between the lines.

give credit where credit is due

not backhandedly, or "between the lines"

[MYTAPPY]

Detroit is not here remember.

Same thing happened to Dallas. The Stars came out very flat. Made some costly errors.

[AppGuy04]

Coming out flat can only last for so long

[Pard4Life]

Coming out flat can only last for so long

Dallas is a good example appy.. they were flat the entire time. By the time they had their mini-retreat and soul searching in the Rockies, they were already facing a huge hole. At the that point the odds were in Colorado's favor. Nobody ever comes back down from 3-0. Dallas won game 4 and lost the next game.

Take Anahiem in 2003. They had 11 days between beating Minnesota in 4 and playing the Devils. It killed them in Games 1 and 2. Their timing and legs were off and everything.

That said I'm not saying the Devils are flat right now. They have clearly shown bursts at certain points, but they are not consistent and are not executing at certain points.

[AppGuy04]

Dallas is a good example appy.. they were flat the entire time. By the time they had their mini-retreat and soul searching in the Rockies, they were already facing a huge hole. At the that point the odds were in Colorado's favor. Nobody ever comes back down from 3-0. Dallas won game 4 and lost the next game.

Take Anahiem in 2003. They had 11 days between beating Minnesota in 4 and playing the Devils. It killed them in Games 1 and 2. Their timing and legs were off and everything.

That said I'm not saying the Devils are flat right now. They have clearly shown bursts at certain points, but they are not consistent and are not executing at certain points.

every team go through that, its not an excuse to lose 2 games in a row after winning 15, come on

[Pards Rule]

CANES WIN!!!!!!!!!!

[AppGuy04]

CANES WIN!!!!!!!!!!

we know, anything else to contribute?

[Pards Rule]

Thats all I have time for now...I am voting for Cam Ward for President though

[AppGuy04]

Colorado had their hearts ripped out last night, losing 4-3 in OT to go down 3-0 in the series

[Pard4Life]

Colorado had their hearts ripped out last night, losing 4-3 in OT to go down 3-0 in the series

Did not watch most of the game but from what I caught of it, there was some great action. Huge saves on both sides late in the 3rd and early in OT. Could we have an all-California conf. final? Hockey gods, please help us... go Oilers!!

[MYTAPPY]

Did anyone see that glove save that Theodore made while laying on his stomach? WOW :eek: That was one of the best saves I've seen.
I was rooting for the Avs:( Oh well.

[Ivytalk]

If things continue they way they've started, we will have either Anaheim or San Jose against either Buffalo or Carolina in the finals. Exciting hockey, but dismal TV ratings.

[AppGuy04]

If things continue they way they've started, we will have either Anaheim or San Jose against either Buffalo or Carolina in the finals. Exciting hockey, but dismal TV ratings.

good hockey is good hockey, who needs the freaking fair weather fans, they can kiss my ass

any true hockey fan could give a crap about tv ratings

[MYTAPPY]

If things continue they way they've started, we will have either Anaheim or San Jose against either Buffalo or Carolina in the finals. Exciting hockey, but dismal TV ratings.

You can probably go ahead and pencil Anaheim in. Their goaltender is a beast.

[AppGuy04]

You can probably go ahead and pencil Anaheim in. Their goaltender is a beast.

He actually wasn't that sharp last night, Colorado should have won that game, but that being said, up 3-0, you are probably right about them advancing

[blur2005]

I am pleased to see Anaheim playing well. I like most of the teams, though, so it's hard to root against them. Since the games are all on OLN where I am, I haven't been able to watch much hockey, since NBC is only on during the weekends.

[AppGuy04]

I am pleased to see Anaheim playing well. I like most of the teams, though, so it's hard to root against them. Since the games are all on OLN where I am, I haven't been able to watch much hockey, since NBC is only on during the weekends.

Yeah, the Carolina/NJ game 4 has been moved back a day to put it on NBC Saturday

[Ivytalk]

good hockey is good hockey, who needs the freaking fair weather fans, they can kiss my ass

any true hockey fan could give a crap about tv ratings

I'll be watching. All four teams in that group are worthy contenders.

[AppGuy04]

Speaking of watching. Alot of fans here have complained about the rising cost of tickets. If the Canes make it to the next round, the cheapest ticket in the building will be $70 plus ticketmaster charges, so over $80. How do other arenas compare?

[AppGuy04]

Canes win 3-2, and Buffalo wins 3-2 in OT. Both teams take a comanding 3-0 lead in their series.

Hey Pard, what excuses you got now?

[Pard4Life]

Canes win 3-2, and Buffalo wins 3-2 in OT. Both teams take a comanding 3-0 lead in their series.

Hey Pard, what excuses you got now?

None Brouder has his head somewhere else and the Devils can't get their act together vs. a faster team. When they try to put a hit on, they seem to bounce off the Canes. Ugh.. I'm not even watching game 4 and I tuned out after two last night... bigger fish to fry.. :mad:

There is pretty much no chance for a comeback.. I remember when the Flyers were up 3-1 in 2000 I declared with a straight face Devils will win the next three... well... no such inclination this time.

For next season, Devils need some bigger, faster skaters, primarily on D.. Zedno Chara is a FA.. hope he comes this way.

[Pard4Life]

Speaking of watching. Alot of fans here have complained about the rising cost of tickets. If the Canes make it to the next round, the cheapest ticket in the building will be $70 plus ticketmaster charges, so over $80. How do other arenas compare?

I think the Devils conference finals and Cup rounds are $95 for the cheapest.. so similar to Carolina I guess. Devils are in the moderate range for NHL regular season prices.

[AppGuy04]

I think the Devils conference finals and Cup rounds are $95 for the cheapest.. so similar to Carolina I guess. Devils are in the moderate range for NHL regular season prices.

heard it wasn't even close to a sellout last night, and I saw plenty of empty seats on the lower bowl, sad really

[Pard4Life]

heard it wasn't even close to a sellout last night, and I saw plenty of empty seats on the lower bowl, sad really

Carolina isn't a top draw around here and I guess fans have gotten accustomed to playing in the later rounds usually. Blowing game 2 didn't help either. Plus Yankees-Red Sox around here usually grabs alot of hype. Rangers-Devils was a sell-out but yeah, every playoff game should sell out.

[MYTAPPY]

I'll probably fork out the $80 for a conference final game.
GO CANES!!!

[AppGuy04]

Carolina isn't a top draw around here and I guess fans have gotten accustomed to playing in the later rounds usually. Blowing game 2 didn't help either. Plus Yankees-Red Sox around here usually grabs alot of hype. Rangers-Devils was a sell-out but yeah, every playoff game should sell out.

It's the playoffs man, doesn't matter who you are playing, it should be a sellout

[AppGuy04]

Anyone know why Ottawa and Buffalo are playing back to back nights?

[AppGuy04]

Ottawa wins 2-1 last night, bringing the series to 3-1 Buffalo. Game 5 will be in Ottawa.

Colorado scores the first goal, but then is outscored 4-0 the rest of the game, losing 4-1 and gets swept by Anaheim 4-0. Anaheim will face the winner of the San Jose/Edmonton series in the Western Conference Finals. The Sharks currently lead that series 2-1 and play at Edmonton tonight at 8pm

[Pards Rule]

CANES WIN!! I will be watching Saturday!!!

[AppGuy04]

Toronto has hired Paul Maurice to coach the Leafs next season. Guess the Leafs figured out that it wasn't the coach when he was fired in Carolina. All the fans knew it.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=2442552

Paul Maurice was hired Friday as coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who finished ninth in the Eastern Conference and missed the playoffs the first time since the 1997-98 season.

He replaces Pat Quinn, who was fired April 20. Maurice was considered the eventual successor to Quinn when he was hired last year to coach the AHL's Toronto Marlies.

[JohnG]

How bout them Canes?!?!?!

WOOOOOO

[AppGuy04]

Next up, Buffalo, the team I was worried about from the beginning of the playoffs

[MYTAPPY]

I worry about the Sabres too, but I have faith in my Canes. They way the Sharks played last night, I think it will be Edmonton and Anaheim for the Western Conference.
GO CANES!!

[Pards Rule]

CANES IN!! CANES IN!!

[MYTAPPY]

I sold my liver and purchased tickets for Game 1 of the Sabres, 'Canes series. I'm quite stoked!!! Can't wait for Saturday.:hyped: