Buchnevich signs entry level contract with Rangers

Posted on May 14, 2016 by Derek
Pavel Buchnevich is one of four remaining prospects from a strong 2013 Rangers Draft. Getty Images

Pavel Buchnevich is finally signed and will play for the Rangers starting next season.
Getty Images

After much speculation, the Rangers finally signed Pavel Buchnevich to an entry level contract. The 21-year old Russian prospect agreed to a three-year deal worth $925,000 per season.

Originally selected 75th overall in the third round of the 2013 NHL Draft five picks ahead of ex-Ranger Anthony Duclair, Buchnevich has played in the Kontinental Hockey League the past four seasons. Playing mostly with the hometown Severstal Cherepovets, the forward developed into a good scorer in the KHL while playing against professionals.

After putting up 13 goals and 17 assists totaling 30 points in 48 games for Severstal Cherepovets in ’14-15, Buchnevich tallied 12 goals and 17 assists in 40 contests this past season before he was traded to St. Petersburg SKA. Playing on the same team as former NHL star Ilya Kovalchuk, he totaled four goals and four helpers in 18 games. During his first KHL playoffs, he scored one goal with two assists and had 29 penalty minutes in 14 games.

A offensively gifted player with good skating and play making skills, Buchnevich is expected to slot into the Rangers’ top nine in ’16-17. Ever since he was drafted, the Russian from Cherepovets, Russia has wanted to become the first player to make the NHL from his hometown. He’ll get that chance this Fall.

Part of the blockbuster trade with the Blue Jackets that sent Rick Nash to the Rangers in exchange for Artem Anisimov (Brandon Saad), Brandon Dubinsky, Tim Erixon and a 2013 first round pick (Kerby Rychel), Buchnevich is the other part of the deal the Rangers have been waiting on. Now, they’ll finally have the chance to see what the talented 21-year old can do.

Buchnevich represented Russia at two Under-20 World Junior Championships registering three goals and 10 assists for 13 points in 14 games. Having seen him in that tournament, the talent is there. He is a shifty skater with good speed and skill that should suit him well in the Rangers’ system.

It all depends on how quick a transition it’ll be for a player who doesn’t speak any English. The Rangers will have Buchnevich spend most of the summer in New York to help him get accustomed to life in the Big Apple. He’ll have a tutor.

There has also been talk of the Rangers possibly bringing in another Russian to help him. The question is do they really want to explore a Alex Radulov, who despite bundles of talent lasted nine games and eight more in the 2012 NHL Playoffs with the Predators before returning to the KHL.

Given their cap situation, that won’t be the focus this summer. Keith Yandle is the top priority. If it’s true his family loves the city, he might take a home discount to stay. Imagine a player passing up more money on the open market to help the Rangers because he loves it here. Hopefully, it proves true.

General Manager Jeff Gorton also must re-sign Group II free agents Kevin Hayes, Chris Kreider, Dylan McIlrath and J.T. Miller. The three forwards will be more expensive than McIlrath, who better have a top six spot on next year’s roster.

Meanwhile, it looks like Dominic Moore won’t be back. No surprise here. In his second stint with the team that drafted him out of Harvard in the third round in 2000, he was a solid fourth line pivot who was one of the team’s top penalty killers and face-off men. If he winds up elsewhere, best wishes to him.

Viktor Stalberg would like to return. He certainly had a solid first campaign on Broadway playing third and fourth line while playing penalty kill. It all depends on what happens with everything else.

It remains to be seen if the Rangers will explore either a trade or buyout with Dan Girardi. If Yandle re-upped, wouldn’t it make sense to see if they can move Marc Staal? Brady Skjei will be part of the solution on the back end. You never know what the organization is thinking.

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Moment of Truth for Sharks

Posted on May 12, 2016 by Derek
Predators Sharks Hockey

San Jose Sharks center Joe Pavelski (8) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Nashville Predators during the third period of Game 2 in an NHL hockey Western Conference semifinal series Sunday, May 1, 2016, in San Jose, Calif. Sharks won 3-2. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)

The Sharks have been here before. After defeating the arch rival Kings in five games, they were expected to win the second round series against the Predators, who upset the Ducks in seven games. Thus far, the home team has won all six games. That included Nashville’s come from behind 4-3 overtime win in Game Six which forced tonight’s do or die Game Seven in San Jose.

By winning tonight, the Sharks could exorcise some recent demons. Perhaps, they can shed the label that they can’t get it done in the playoffs. A team featuring Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Logan Couture, Joe Pavelski and Brent Burns should be able to make a deep run. They must win Game Seven on home ice at SAP Center. There are no excuses.

Unlike the Stars, who were without star Tyler Seguin and had shaky goaltending from the tandem of Kari Lehtonen and Antti Niemi which resulted in a 6-1 home humiliation to the Blues in Game Seven Wednesday night, the Sharks have all the ingredients of a team that should prevail tonight and challenge for the Stanley Cup. That includes first-year starter Martin Jones, who has been mostly brilliant in his first postseason. He was Jonathan Quick’s understudy with the Kings. He got the better of Quick in the first round and was told to go win it by his former teammate.

In Game Six, Jones was a little shaky allowing two backhand goals including a stoppable game-winner to Viktor Arvidsson just 2:03 into overtime. Arvidsson beat a couple of Sharks on an innocent looking play and let go of a rising backhand that fooled Jones, forcing the seventh game. In that game he allowed four goals on 32 shots. But in a series that’s favored the home team, Jones has permitted five goals on 95 shots in San Jose’s three home wins. At Nashville, he gave up 12 goals on 102 shots. If he can perform like he has on home ice, then the Sharks’ chances are pretty good. But also expect one of the game’s best goalies, Pekka Rinne to give his team a shot. He is fully capable of stealing a seventh game.

The Sharks have played better at home outscoring the Preds 13-5. In a series like this, the home team has the final change. Look for San Jose coach Pete DeBoer to exploit the match-ups. Oddly enough, the Sharks were a better road team during the season. They won all three games at Staples Center in their first round triumph over the Kings.

At this point, you can throw everything out. In Game Seven, anything can happen. A scary thought for San Jose. It was a year ago that the Rangers couldn’t be beaten in a home Game Seven at MSG. Then, it happened. They were shutout 2-0 by the Lightning eliminated on their home ice in a oddly played Eastern Conference Final. That was a series that saw the road teams win five of the seven games. Even after they blew out the Bolts at Tampa in Game Six, I didn’t have a good feeling. They also blanked the Rangers in Game Five 2-0. A game I attended with my family. I knew it was possible.

Many critics believe the Sharks are lacking something to go far. Most of the blame is usually pointed in the direction of Thornton. The big center who went first overall in the ’97 Draft a pick before Marleau went to the Sharks. It was during ’05-06 that the Sharks acquired Jumbo Joe from the Bruins for a lopsided package of Wayne Primeau, Marco Sturm and Brad Stuart. In 58 games, Thornton put up 92 points (20-72-92) overtaking Jaromir Jagr for the Art Ross. He also won the Hart Trophy and led the Sharks to the second round.

One of the game’s greatest passers, the 36-year old future Hall of Famer is missing a Stanley Cup from his resume. Despite helping lead San Jose to two trips to the Western Conference Final, he’s been labeled “soft.” Once the Sharks’ captain, he was stripped as was Marleau. It’s now Pavelski who wears the ‘C’ and is their emotional leader. He’s scored eight goals this postseason. Many coming from in front where he’s made a living. He and Couture are the younger players who have taken pressure off Thornton. Couture has 14 points (6-8-14) while Brent Burns leads the team in scoring with 15 (4-11-15).

The Sharks are more of a complete team this time. Thornton has contributed two goals and seven helpers while Marleau has scored three goals and added four assists. Joonas Donskoi has four goals and Chris Tierney has three. There’s a lot to like about this team. Joel Ward was brought in for experience last summer. He has a goal and five helpers. Tomas Hertl had a good season but has been quiet with only two goals so far.

Paul Martin signed to solidify the blue line, adding depth to a defense that features Burns and anchor Marc-Edouard Vlasic. Roman Polak was brought in at the deadline to toughen up the D. Justin Braun and Brenden Dillon round it out.

The time is now for the Sharks to win. Thornton and Marleau aren’t getting any younger. When they take on the Preds at 9 PM later, the pressure is squarely on. Not to take away from Nashville, who boasts a strong blue line featuring Shea Weber and Roman Josi along with Mattias Ekholm and Ryan Ellis.

Under proven coach Peter Laviolette, who guided the Canes to a Cup in ’06, the Preds are pesky. They fore-check hard and battle you. James Neal has had a good playoffs. His goal with over seven minutes left in regulation extended their season. While Filip Forsberg (2 goals) has struggled, Colin Wilson has excelled on a cohesive line with Game Four triple overtime hero Mike Fisher. Wilson leads the team with 13 points (5-8-13) while Fisher has five goals. Ryan Johansen has four goals and four helpers. Craig Smith has been snake bit.

Nashville is led by their D. Ekholm (3-4-7), Weber (3-4-7) and Josi (1-8-9) are all dangerous offensively. Ellis is also capable. Barret Jackman and Anthony Bitetto aren’t there to provide offense. Just smart shifts for when the top four can’t play.

The Preds have proven they can play with the Sharks. They could have the edge in net due to Rinne’s experience. He’s trying to carry the franchise to its first Conference Final. He was better than either of Anaheim’s young duo in Round One. He’s been almost even to Jones in this round. Ironically, each goalie brings a .913 save percentage into tonight. Jones has a 2.35 goals-against-average while Rinne has a 2.41 GAA. Eerily similar.

It sets up to be a great game. Hopefully, better than the awful mess that was St. Louis/Dallas. The Sharks have a deeper team. But can they finally get over the hump? Win tonight and it guarantees a Conference Final against the Blues, who haven’t gone this far since ’01. Either way, the West will be represented by a different team for the Cup. It should be fascinating.

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Hagelin plays big role for Penguins, Pens vs Lightning in battle of 2014 Rangers

Posted on May 11, 2016 by Derek
Carl Hagelin.jpg

Carl Hagelin celebrates Nick Bonino’s Game Six overtime winner that sent the Penguins past the Capitals to the Eastern Conference Final versus the Lightning. AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar/Getty Images

If you’re wondering whether or not to watch the Eastern Conference Final, I understand your frustration. For any True Blue Ranger fan, it isn’t easy to see our former players having so much success. What makes it even worse is all four participants assuming Anton Stralman returns- played key roles in the Rangers’ Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2014.

Here we are two years later cursing out Glen Sather and Alain Vigneault. If you want to blame the salary cap, go right ahead. The bottom line is the organization mismanaged that ’13-14 roster that gave us hope. They overvalued core defensemen Dan Girardi and Marc Staal. Both make upwards of $5.5 million with no-movement clauses into the next decade. Each is in decline. I don’t blame the players, who have given their blood and guts. We all would’ve signed those contracts.

The grinding style each plays finally caught up. Especially to Girardi. The skater with the longest tenure which trails only Henrik Lundqvist. Playing through pain is something most players do. Look how battered their blue line was following the Game Seven disappointment to the Lightning in last year’s Conference Final. It at least helped explain why they fell short of their ultimate goal. It didn’t explain Vigneault’s conservative system which became too reliant on offense off transition from the stretch pass. I never had a good feeling they were winning that night despite it still being scoreless entering the third. Alex Killorn still haunts me. I can’t imagine how Lundqvist feels.

Sometimes, you can tell when it’s not gonna happen. I’m the same person who believed enough in the current roster to predict this group to a second Stanley Cup Final appearance in three years. Ultimately, I had the gutless Ducks winning it all. Oops. Speaking of teams that can’t finish. They lost a home Game Seven for the fourth consecutive time which finally cost Bruce Boudreau his job. He was hired by the Wild.

Go right ahead and tell me how wrong I was. I’m fine with admitting it. I even had the audacity to stick with my Ducks pick in the postseason preview. By then, my mind was changed on the Rangers. Instead, I had them bowing out to the Penguins, who I took in their place out of the East. With them advancing on Nick Bonino’s overtime goal from old friend Carl Hagelin and the suddenly dominant Phil Kessel, that could still happen. Speaking of Hagelin, he led the Pens in scoring against another playoff choker, the Capitals. The gritty Swede with all the speed which worked so well in Vigneault’s system paced the Pens with seven points, including a goal and two assists in their Game Six 4-3 win in sudden death.

Hagelin would be the same player who the Rangers deemed expendable last summer due to his next contract which pays him an average of $4 million-per-season thru 2019. It was understandable why they traded him at last year’s NHL Draft. Needing to re-sign Derek Stepan long-term in a cap crunch didn’t leave them much room. So, Hagelin was shipped to those Ducks for failed experiment Emerson Etem (moved to Canucks where he showed improvement). The move allowed the Rangers to move up in the second round and select Ryan Gropp, who they hope is worth it. He better be. The Ducks wound up with Julius Nattinen, Garrett Metcalf and eventually David Perron due to Hagelin not fitting under Boudreau.

Sometimes, that happens. Some systems just aren’t meant for certain players. Speaking of which, even Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin struggled mightily in that awful defensive scheme over matched former coach Mike Johnston had them playing. The Pens were not even a blip on the radar screen until GM Jim Rutherford replaced him with former Rangers’ assistant Mike Sullivan. The same guy who worked under John Tortorella and whose power plays were about as excitable as watching paint dry, turned out to be the right choice for the Pens. His no-nonsense approach lit a fire under Crosby, whose second half catapulted him to third in scoring behind Jamie Benn and Patrick Kane. The trio are up for the Hart Trophy.

It was also Sullivan, who knew Hagelin from his days spent on Broadway. So, when the Pens made the trade, they had a speedy player who doesn’t take a shift off. The work ethic of Hags was a perfect fit. Sullivan has the Pens playing a more up-tempo emphasizing speed and aggressive or relentless fore-check. He was coaching AHL affiliate Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. So, he took speedsters Conor Sheary and Bryan Rust with him. Rutherford also made a brilliant trade swapping Rob Scuderi for Trevor Daley, who for some reason didn’t fit under Joel Quenneville in Chicago. Daley has played big minutes with Kris Letang on the top pair.

Probably the smartest decision Sullivan made was taking Kessel away from Crosby and trying him with Bonino and Hagelin. With Malkin missing the last few games of the season, the trio found instant chemistry. Kessel is a player who needs the puck. But also his passing skills have always been overlooked. Maybe due to that lethal shot. He’s been the Pens’ best skater this postseason, leading them in scoring with 12 points (5-7-12). That included a pair of goals in Tuesday’s clincher. Plus a huge assist on Bonino’s OT winner. His pass for Hagelin in front set up a dangerous shot that a sliding Braden Holtby stopped. But Bonino steered home the rebound sending the Pens to a Conference Final against the Lightning.

Speaking of the Bolts, they have a few familiar faces who were on that 2014 roster. There’s Brian Boyle, who became public enemy number one after his crunching hit knocked Thomas Hickey off the puck, eventually leading to Boyle’s overtime winner in Game Three against the Islanders. He also scored in Tampa’s 4-0 Game Five clincher. Of course, Boyle is playing with buddy Ryan Callahan, who still plays the same balls out style that made him a fan favorite as a Black & Blueshirt. Traded for Martin St. Louis that fateful deadline day in 2014, Callahan eventually re-signed with the Bolts for a similar contract he couldn’t quite get from Sather. It worked out well for both sides.

The death of St. Louis’ Mom France inspired the Rangers to rally for the first time in franchise history from a 3-1 deficit to beat the Pens in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. So popular was St. Louis after he came over that the team all showed up to his Mom’s funeral and rallied around the proud veteran who won a Stanley Cup with Tampa in ’04. There was the emotional St. Louis goal in that Mother’s Day win when MSG exploded. No way were they losing that game. Then the nerve racking Game Seven with St. Louis setting up Brad Richards for the series winner on the power play. Lundqvist did the rest making some memorable saves to carry the team to victory.

St. Louis would also score that awesome OT winner on a perfect Hagelin pass to win Game Four. The Hagelin hustle paid off. But the St. Louis finish was sweet, going top shelf on Montreal backup Dustin Tokarski. The Rangers would prevail in six with the difference a Brian Boyle feed from behind the net to another inspiring vet Dominic Moore, who returned to his first team after sitting out a year due to the sad death of his wife Katie due to liver cancer. It was fitting. Moore also frustrated Crosby a round earlier with Boyle and Derek Dorsett. A fourth line that did a bit of everything.

That’s where the Rangers went wrong. They watched as Callahan recruited Boyle to Tampa. Boyle wasn’t wanted here. Nor did he want to return. Instead, Tanner Glass was signed for three years. It’s not his fault. He isn’t Boyle. After a bad first year, he had a better second season scoring four times with three assists and 66 penalty minutes. Sadly, he was one of the more consistent forwards in his four games than bigger stars against Pittsburgh.

It was also the Lightning who wanted Stralman, valuing his strong puck possession acumen and defensive play. He left the Rangers without even an offer, essentially getting the same money as Dan Boyle. The elder Boyle who signed for two years likely played his last game. A 5-0 humiliation in Game Four at the hands of the Pen, which told you they were done. It didn’t quite work out. Sure. Boyle had his moments. He was one of the team’s best defensemen in last year’s playoffs scoring three times with seven helpers. He played well against his former team. Boyle scored some flashy goals this past season even getting to 10 which led all Ranger blue liners. His departure was a loud one on break up day, roasting New York Post scribe Larry Brooks. I can’t fault him. Brooks is a grade A asshole who buries players he covers. A disturbing trend we’re seeing from more beat writers.

Meanwhile, Stralman has missed the first two rounds with a broken fibula. His first two seasons in Tampa have been a huge success. After hardly ever being used on the power play by Vigneault, Bolts’ coach Jon Cooper didn’t hesitate to try him with success. Fourteen of a career high 39 points (9-30-39) came on the man-advantage in ’14-15. He added a goal and eight helpers while teaming with workhorse Victor Hedman to form one of the league’s best top pairs. They got the better of the Rangers shutting them out 2-0 in Game Seven. An identical score as Game Five. The Lightning won three of four games at MSG including that fateful seventh game. Once unheard of.

Since losing the final three home playoff games in 2015, the Rangers have dropped five straight at The Garden. That included a 3-1 loss in Game Three and the forgettable 5-0 debacle in Game Four. Opponents have outscored them 18-3 on home ice. It hurts even typing it. To lose that badly at MSG is sad. To get shutout twice by Ben Bishop and muster one freaking goal in the last four games is despicable. That’s 12 periods.

So much of the success of 2014 was due to Vigneault’s emphasis of rolling four lines. He believed in playing everyone. That Spring, he had a similar cohesive trio to the Pens’ Hagelin, Bonino, Kessel. It starred Mats Zuccarello, Derick Brassard and Benoit Pouliot. Behind Derek Stepan and Richards, they were the third line. A great skating, fore-checking and play making line, they drove possession and scored big goals. Hagelin played with Richards on the second line. He had similar success with better players scoring seven goals and five assists with Richards and St. Louis. Nash mostly saw time with Stepan and Chris Kreider.

To those naysayers who say it’s the Pens’ system, wrong. Hockey is about chemistry. It’s that line of Hagelin, Bonino and Kessel that’s doing the most damage. In a six-game series win over a excellent Caps team picked by many to win the Cup following a record breaking season, the combo of Crosby and Malkin combined for one goal and three assists. Neither had big series. They were carried by Hagelin (3-4-7), Bonino (2-3-5) and Kessel (2-3-5). In fact, Bonino has as many points (10) as Crosby through the first two rounds. The same guy who had nine goals and 20 assists in 63 regular season games.

I recall many in the blogosphere laughing at the Blackhawks for adding Michal Handzus from the Sharks in 2013. How did that work out? Zeus wound up playing a key role on the second line notching three goals and eight helpers, helping the Hawks win the Cup. Sometimes, offense comes from unlikely sources. It depends on the make up of the team. Look how poorly Evgeny Kuznetsov played this postseason. The Caps’ leading scorer had only two points. Nicklas Backstrom finished with 11 but most of the production came in a first round win over the Flyers. The only game he was effective in was during Washington’s comeback from three down last night, setting up T.J. Oshie and Justin Williams to get them within one.

Unlike Sullivan, Caps’ coach Barry Trotz never found the right combination. The best he could do was flip Backstrom and Kuznetsov with minimal success. In a series star Alex Ovechkin still put up seven points (2-5-7), the Great Eight didn’t get enough support. The Pens did a excellent job marking him. Whenever the Caps deferred to him on the power play, it didn’t work. Notice the one time Ovechkin switched sides with John Carlson, he set up Carlson’s tying power play goal to finally take advantage of all the Pens’ self inflicted penalties. Though the two delay of games couldn’t be anymore different. The Bonino one was incidental. The rule needs to be adjusted. There should be room for more interpretation.

Most curious was Trotz’ odd decision to send out his checking forwards for the final part of the power play. That was their chance to win the game. Instead, the former Nashville coach went the conservative route, playing for overtime. I don’t care if you’re down five and come back to tie. You don’t play for sudden death in the other team’s building. You go for it. Look how different the teams played. The Pens went for it after blowing a three-goal lead. They looked loose and ready. The Caps were tentative and looked scared to make a mistake.

Listening to Crosby in the post game, he admitted that none of them had ever been in that situation. However, Kessel had experienced it with Toronto blowing a three-goal lead against Boston before losing in overtime of Game Seven on a Patrice Bergeron tally. Crosby made sure to note that a lot of the Pens were fresh due to the work of the penalty killers. The Caps mostly used their top two lines and looked gassed. They had nothing left.

Holtby made some great saves but also had help from a diving Jay Beagle, who saved a goal. It only prevented the inevitable. He could only do so much as the faster and more relentless Pens finally got the winner. A play started by Kessel from behind the net to Hagelin, who the whole game was dangerous. He even scored a power play goal on a Brooks Orpik double minor. Hagelin deflected home a point shot for a 3-0 lead. Kessel had scored earlier when the Caps penalty kill turned into the Rangers. The Pens scored on both halves. They let down for a moment and it was 3-2 off a nice Justin Williams finish from around the net on a Backstrom feed, beating Matt Murray high to the glove side.

Still, if not for the barrage of penalties, the game never reaches overtime. Murray still made a bunch of big saves prior to Carlson’s bomb from Ovechkin. Carlson by the way had a point in all six games. He had as many points as Ovechkin for the playoffs. Each finished with five goals and seven assists for 12 points. Oshie was the best Cap in the series scoring five times including his Game One hat trick with the wrap around winning it on a video review. He proved to be a very effective player, totaling seven of his 10 points in the second round.

Williams showed for the elimination games, scoring in each. Marcus Johansson had seven points (2-5-7), tying Williams. Beagle not only made the great defensive play but scored three goals. He has always been a solid secondary scorer who is strong on draws. The issue for the Caps was Kuznetsov’s disappearing act. Andre Burakovsky also couldn’t hit the net scoring only once in 12 games. Jason Chimera, who usually shows for such moments, only mustered a goal and helper. Tom Wilson wasn’t any better with only an assist while scaring no one. Mike Richards showed that he could still play but he didn’t register a point and his shots often missed the target.

Maybe the Caps weren’t as good as thought. They cruised to 56 wins and 120 points without ever being seriously challenged. Anyone who followed the Pens closely down the stretch knew they would be trouble in the second round. It’s why I picked them in six. If only I hadn’t been so gullible actually believing in Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry to get it done in Anaheim. I’ve still yet to see Backstrom have a good second round. He vanished against the Rangers too. Maybe he should just be known as Geico for those commercials.

Watching Ovechkin explain away another second round disappointment was sad. “It sucks,” he told the media in the Caps’ locker room. There really wasn’t much else to add. We’re looking at one of the greatest players to play the game in our generation. A seven-time 50-goal scorer and three-time league MVP. And yet at age 30, the electrifying Russian with the awesome personality who lets you in, may never win a Cup. He might suffer the same cruel fate as Lundqvist, who is four years older. In the ’09 second round seven-game defeat to Crosby and the Pens, Ovechkin finished with 11 goals and 10 assists totaling 21 points in 14 games. Who could ever forget how he torched the Rangers for a hat trick in that 3-1 comeback? What a player. Since, he has never scored more than five goals in any postseason.

The Caps have been to the second round five times in the Ovechkin Era. They still have yet to advance to a Conference Final. A dark cloud that hangs over the state capital for a franchise that’s never won a Cup. While they are done for the summer, the Blues try to win a third game at Dallas tonight. If they do, St. Louis can make the Western Conference Final and await either Nashville or San Jose. Two other teams that have never won a Cup. The Blues haven’t either. In fact, they haven’t been back to the Stanley Cup Final since 1970 when they were swept by the Bruins with Bobby Orr scoring the memorable overtime goal while being captured in mid-air celebrating it. St. Louis appeared in three straight SCF as a expansion team.

Ovechkin and Lundqvist aren’t the only jinxed players without a championship. Sharks’ tandem Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau were the first two picks in the 1997 Draft. Since Thornton came over in a trade from the Bruins during ’05-06, the Sharks have suffered some awful playoff losses. The worst being to the Kings in 2014 when they blew a 3-0 series lead. LA also rallied from a 3-2 deficit to beat the Ducks and then stunned the Hawks in sudden death on Alec Martinez’ OT winner. The same Martinez who is etched in Ranger fans’ memories for the same sad reason. I watched that Game Five at the bar with friends. It still hurts.

As for the Sharks, by exacting revenge on the Kings in a satisfying five-game first round win, they look to have the best chance to finally win one. But the Predators have proven resilient fighting back from a 2-0 deficit which included that triple overtime epic that Mike Fisher won in Game Four. Following a Sharks’ Game Five blowout, the Preds again showed playoff mettle with James Neal sending Game Six to sudden death. Viktor Arvidsson won it with a backhand that surprised Martin Jones. In the only series where the home team has won every game, Game Seven is at San Jose. The pressure will be immense on the Sharks tomorrow night. With a roster featuring Thornton, Marleau, Joe Pavelski, Logan Couture and Brent Burns, they must win. If they don’t, they’ll never hear the end of it.

So, what to expect. At this point, chaos. All I know is when the puck drops for Lightning vs Penguins, there will be an awful lot of crowing from our fans. I won’t be one of them. I’m going for the boys in Tampa. As much as I love Hagelin, I can’t root for the Pens. I got plenty of friends from Pittsburgh.

The Bolts are easier to pull for because they have Boyle and Cally. Plus if Stralman returns, I am a huge fan. Sure. Some can be bitter due to last year. Put the blame where it belongs. I will never consider the Lightning a huge rival. I just hope I’m wrong about the next round. Look how wrong I was about the Bolts without Stralman and Steven Stamkos. There’s still hope.

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Hamonic loves being an Islander

Posted on May 10, 2016 by Derek
Ryan Strome celebrates a goal with teammates Brock Nelson and Travis Hamonic. AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

Ryan Strome celebrates a goal with teammates Brock Nelson and Travis Hamonic.
AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

On break up day, the Islanders got some great news. Travis Hamonic loves being an Islander. The 25-year old shutdown defenseman previously requested a trade prior to the ’15-16 season due to someone close in his family not doing well. Throughout the process, the Islanders tried to accommodate him. He wanted to be closer to his family in Manitoba, Winnipeg. With that situation cleared up, Hamonic confirmed that he rescinded the trade request and will remain an Islander.

Even with the distraction, he played 72 games in the regular season and another 11 during the postseason. He didn’t let the off ice issue prevent him from putting together a good year, helping lead the club to its first second round appearance in 23 years. A steady right-handed D who is a solid defensive player, Hamonic led the Isles in average ice-time (23:49) and topped all Islander defenseman with 44 takeaways.

Unlike last Spring when an injury prevented him from participating in the first round against Washington, Hamonic was healthy enough to play in his second postseason. In 11 games, he ranked second in ice-time (26:08) behind teammate Nick Leddy (27:03). It was during an Isles’ 5-3 win in Game One over the Lightning in the Eastern Conference Semifinal that he scored his first career playoff goal- sneaking a shot from a tough angle by Ben Bishop tying the score. The Isles scored four straight to take a 4-1 lead and chase Bishop.

When they were eliminated on Sunday, questions remained as to whether Hamonic would be back. Coach Jack Capuano revealed to reporters covering the team that he would in fact return. Eventually, the defenseman confirmed it during an emotional interview.

“It was a tough, trying year but I had the support of the organization and my teammates behind me through the whole thing, and I couldn’t be more thankful for that,” Hamonic said. “In the last little while we’ve learned that the situation has stabilized itself. So, first and foremost, just relief for that, thankful for that and pretty grateful.”

“In the last little while, we’ve learned the situation has stabilized itself. Just relieved for that, thankful for that, pretty grateful. I love being an Islander, it’s my home here, my family loves it, I love my teammates, this organization. Being an Islander is one of the best things I do with my life.”

The way it was handled by the organization was first class. Originally, the trade request came out on Hockey Night In Canada from the reliable Elliotte Friedman in November. Hamonic is signed to a cap friendly deal that still has four years remaining. The average cap hit remains a bargain at $3.86 million-per-year. His salary is $4.875 million over the final four seasons.

“I love it here, I honestly do. I wouldn’t have signed my seven-year deal if I didn’t love it here. I love everything about being an Islander, so I couldn’t be more ecstatic. To know things back home have stabilized is the main thing.”

That’s one less thing Team President and GM Garth Snow has to worry about. The focus will be on re-signing unrestricted free agents Frans Nielsen and Kyle Okposo. Matt Martin can also test the market. With key restricted’s Casey Cizikas, Shane Prince and Ryan Strome also due raises, it should be an interesting summer in Brooklyn.

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Lightning experience too much for Islanders

Posted on May 9, 2016 by Derek
Victor Hedman'.jpg

Victor Hedman celebrates a power play goal with Jonathan Drouin as the Lightning’ experience proved too much for the Islanders, who lost Game 5 4-0 and were eliminated from the second round on Sunday. AP Photo by Chris O’Meara/Getty Images

In the end, it was the more proven team that advanced to the Eastern Conference Final. Even minus leading goalscorer Steven Stamkos and second defenseman Anton Stralman, the more experienced Lightning prevailed over the Islanders in five games.

It was their will that allowed them to come back and rally twice from one-goal deficits to break Islander hearts with consecutive overtime wins, which turned the closely fought second round series in their direction. And so, a convincing 4-0 shutout in Game 5 sent the Islanders home for the summer. They’ll have all off-season to look back on what could have been.

For captain John Tavares, he’s probably tired of seeing Victor Hedman. The top two picks in the famed ’09 Draft battled for five games. Hedman got the upper hand by stifling the Isles’ star center- holding him without a point the final four games. Following a goal and assist in the team’s only win which they chased Tampa starter Ben Bishop, Tavares was unable to escape the tight checking of Hedman, who had help from Braydon Coburn along with Craig Paquette and familiar faces Brian Boyle and Ryan Callahan.

It didn’t matter who Islanders’ coach Jack Capuano put with Tavares. So detailed was the Lightning checking that they shut down one of the league’s best players. Coincidentally, while Tavares was left frustrated with two points and hardly any room unlike the first round when his nine points took apart the Panthers, it was the brilliant Hedman who dominated the match-up scoring twice in the 4-0 win. Similar to his performance against the Rangers in last year’s seven-game Eastern Conference Final, Hedman dominated finishing with eight points (4-4-8) and a plus-six rating. He did it both offensively and defensively while logging the most ice-time.

”Brutal. It’s hard to believe it’s over,” Tavares said. ”You put a lot into this and we didn’t accomplish what we set out to do.”

”We obviously played some good hockey at times, but we just let those two games at home slip away. That put us behind the 8-ball for (Sunday).”

The 25-year old Swede is one of the game’s top defensemen. He might not have the flair of countryman Erik Karlsson or the lethal rocket of Brent Burns. But he makes the game look easy. Similar to the other Norris candidate Drew Doughty, Hedman can impact a game in all three zones. He posted career highs in points (47) and plus/minus (21) while blocking a career best 132 shots.

”Last year was a good experience for me and the team. You know what to expect,” Hedman said. ”You want to be at your best when you come to the playoffs. We battle for each other, and that’s paying off right now. We’ve got to keep that going.”

The Bolts had a odd year where they were up and down. A strong finish allowed them to finish second in the Atlantic with 97 points. But injuries that have kept Stamkos and Stralman out threatened to hurt their chances. Admittedly, I underestimated them. They boast strong depth up front.

As usual, Triplets Kucherov, Tyler Johnson and Ondrej Palat have been instrumental. After a frustrating injury riddled season, Johnson is once again leading the team with 13 points (4-9-13). He’s always on the puck and around the net. Kucherov killed the Islanders scoring four times, including a pair of game-tying goals that forced sudden death at Barclays Center. The biggest coming with 38.4 seconds left in Game 3 on a brilliant feed from Jonathan Drouin. Kucherov leads the postseason with nine goals. Palat only has four points so far but coach Jon Cooper plays him in every situation. He’s a fast skater and excellent fore-checker who is also used on the penalty kill with Johnson.

If there’s been a difference maker, it’s Drouin. After sitting out most of the year due to terrible advice from agent Allen Walsh due to his role, the 21-year old 2013 third overall pick has come back with a vengeance. In the playoffs, the play making pivot has eight assists. Second on the club behind Hedman. His nine points are tied for third with Hedman and Ranger killer Alex Killorn (3-6-9). Drouin has shown great patience and vision setting up Kucherov for the momentum shifting tying marker late in Game 3. He also made a nice no look backhand drop for a Hedman one-timer that made it 3-0 in Game 5 on the power play. Given his performance, I don’t see him going anywhere this summer.

Assuming they lose Stamkos, the Lightning are proving they can survive thanks to superior depth. Cooper can still play checkers Boyle and Callahan with the underrated Paquette on a third line. The overtime hero in Game 3, Boyle scored again yesterday. He made a nice play taking a puck off the boards between his legs and beating Isles’ goalie Thomas Greiss high far side. Boyle, who was never re-signing with the Rangers, has made them look bad. A gritty player who agitates opponents and delivers strong penalty kill work, the big man continues to step up his play in the postseason.With three goals so far, he now has 13 career playoff goals in his career. By comparison, Rick Nash has 12. Relax. We’re not comparing them. Just illustrating a point on how Boyle was more important to the Blueshirts than thought.

Tampa is back in a second consecutive Final Four due to their depth and experience from last year. Losing to the Blackhawks in six games, the pain is still there. They want to win the franchise’s second Stanley Cup. Speaking of which, Ben Bishop recovered nicely from his Game 1 nightmare. After allowing four goals on 13 shots, he won four straight permitting six goals on 115 shots. That included a 28-save shutout on Sunday.

For the Islanders, Greiss did okay. Sure. He would like to have Kucherov’s second tying goal back. It beat him short side in the third period of Game 4. But he wasn’t at fault on either overtime winner. It was a clear case of his defense letting him down. He also had bad luck on Boyle’s Game 3 winner with a favorable carom off the back boards of a wide Hedman shot allowing Boyle to score. In Game 4, it was an extended Lightning shift spent in the Isles’ zone that resulted in Jason Garrison’s winner through traffic. On it, Greiss’ own teammate Calvin de Haan got caught in no man’s land, screening out his own goalie.

”It will sting for a long time, but you have to get over it,” Greiss said after making 21 saves.

In place of injured starter Jaroslav Halak, the 30-year old Greiss went 5-6-0 with a 2.46 goals-against average and .923 save percentage. Without his brilliant goaltending in out-performing Roberto Luongo in the six-game first round win, the Isles don’t break the drought of not advancing since ’93. Signed for one more year, Greiss remains a reliable backup who can step in for Halak if needed. With the club also boasting Jean-Francois Berube in the system, goaltending is the least of their problems.

The off-season will prove to be challenging for the organization. With both Kyle Okposo and Frans Nielsen able to test the market on July 1, President and GM Garth Snow has his work cut out. They have approximately $20 million to work with. Matt Martin is also unrestricted. You know they’d like to bring the popular banger back. Casey Cizikas is restricted and will get a bump up. Ryan Strome is also a Group II. He needs to improve his consistency. Shane Prince showed enough to be re-signed. He’s also a Group II. Steve Bernier is unrestricted and probably will leave. Alan Quine was a find. He’s restricted and should be back.

With the top six for the Isles currently under contract, the back end looks set. It’s just a question of whether Travis Hamonic backs off his trade demand. He wanted to be closer to home in Western Canada. But the team was unable to accommodate him. A strong puck moving defensive defenseman, he’s hard to move. Hamonic is signed for another three years with a good cap hit of $3.857 million. Hopefully, his mind is changed and he’ll return.

Islander fans will get to see more of Adam Pelech. The righty D with a big accurate shot. He looks to have a promising future. The blue line also has de Haan, Nick Leddy, Johnny Boychuk and Thomas Hickey, who proved his toughness throughout the two rounds. Young Devon Toews is signed. A fourth round pick in 2014 from Quinnipiac, the 21-year old will turn pro.

If Snow is unable to re-sign both Nielsen and Okposo, the organization could look to young prospects Matthew Barzal and Michael Dal Colle. It’s Dal Colle who projects to be a big scorer. The kind who can take pressure off Tavares and balance the offense. A sore spot during the playoffs.

As for the coach, Jack Capuano proved he could guide the team to the second round. He remains a good coach who the players play hard for. Is he the right man to get the franchise back to being a serious playoff contender? That remains unanswered. After a 100-point season and winning a round, there’s no reason for him to not be in Brooklyn this Fall.

What must happen for the Islanders to improve is more contributions from support players. Brock Nelson had a quiet postseason with a goal and four helpers. He’ll need to be better. The Isles missed Anders Lee. A young player with good hands who remains a key part of the future.

It would be nice if Mikhail Grabovski could avoid the injury bug. You wonder what will be with his concussion history. A serious topic moving forward. He has two years left on a contract with an average cap hit of $5 million. Nikolay Kulemin also is signed two more years with an average of $4.19 million.

After Tavares, who paced the Isles with 11 points (6-5-11), Okposo was second with eight (2-6-8) and Nielsen was third with six (3-3-6). Okposo is four years younger than Nielsen. He has complemented Tavares on the top line. The Minnesota native earned $4.5 million in salary for ’15-16. At 28, he could get between six to seven million. Six years for $38.5 million seems fair.

As for Nielsen, he made $3.5 million. The 32-year old versatile two-way center can play top line or center the second line while playing power play and being dangerous on the PK where he scored two shorthanded goals. He’s the kind of player that’s easy to respect. He is older. So, how many years will he get? But plenty of teams can use a smart player who plays both ends with a scoring touch.

Nielsen is very valuable. But I wonder if the Isles will try to offer him a shorter term due to age. They also boast plenty of center depth. Josh Bailey could always take on that sort of role. But he seems better cast as a complementary winger who plays PK.

The Islanders will no doubt take this experience with them. They know they were close. But that doesn’t count. It’ll be an interesting summer in Brooklyn.

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Lindberg has bilateral hip labral surgery

Posted on May 6, 2016 by Derek

Oscar Lindberg

In a surprise, the Rangers announced that forward Oscar Lindberg underwent bilateral hip labral surgery. The announcement came on the team’s official Twitter account.

It might better explain why Lindberg didn’t play much down the stretch. After getting off to a good start with four goals in the first three games of his rookie season, the 24-year old Swede cooled off considerably after the first month. He still wound up with 13 goals and 15 assists totaling 28 points with a plus-12 rating in 68 contests.

Lindberg was just under 50.0 percent on face offs going 134-and-143 in his first year. He also took the body registering 132 hits which ranked fifth among Ranger forwards and sixth overall.

What the surgery to his hip means is that Lindberg is expected to need six months to recover. That means it should take him until November to be ready. Who knows when he’ll return. But it obviously will cause him to miss the start of the season. An unfortunate break for the Rangers, who could lose depth forwards Dominic Moore and Viktor Stalberg this summer. Eric Staal will also leave on July 1.

Getting back to Lindberg, if he played hurt then coach Alain Vigneault gets a pass for sitting him out in favor of Tanner Glass. It’s interesting how not even one reporter who covers the team didn’t know he had a serious injury that would require surgery. I guess it speaks to the secretive nature of the Rangers and other NHL teams.

Many were frustrated with the coach for not playing Lindberg more. He eventually replaced an ineffective Hayes in the final two games of a first round disappointment against the Pens, who continue to roll. They lead the Caps 3-1 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals and can eliminate the “regular season champs” as early as tomorrow.

As for the current situation, the Rangers must re-sign free agent defenseman Keith Yandle. The best offensive blue liner they’ve had since Brian Leetch. Yandle led the team in assists with 42 and all Ranger defensemen with 47 points (5-42-47). Nearly half came on the power play where he had two power play goals and 20 power play assists. The 29-year old Boston, Massachusetts native was of just two Blueshirts to play all 82 regular season games, joining J.T. Miller. They also played all five in the postseason totaling 87.

With over $55 million committed to 13 players and the cap rumored to be going down to $74 million depending on a declining Canadian dollar, Rangers GM Jeff Gorton must make every attempt to re-sign Yandle. If that means exploring a buyout for blood and guts vet defenseman Dan Girardi or taking on some salary in a cost cutting trade for Marc Staal, so be it. The Rangers are on the hook for $11.2 million for the two declining proud blue liners.

Gorton can also see what the market is for forward Rick Nash, who has two years left with a cap hit of $7.8 million. An injury riddled ’15-16 limited him to 15 goals in 60 games. Not enough production from the Rangers’ most talented forward. A bone bruise kept him out two months. He never regained his form finishing with 36 points (15-21-36). He did score twice in the five-game series loss to Pittsburgh and was arguably the Rangers’ best forward tying with Derick Brassard in points (4). Anyone who watched knows Nash put out a much better effort than Brassard, who couldn’t be bothered defensively.

A big part of the summer will be re-signing the young trio of Kevin Hayes, Chris Kreider and Miller, who are all restricted free agents. It’ll probably cost between $9 to 10 million for all three. That would put the Rangers around $65 million with approximately $9 million left for Yandle and Group II defenseman Dylan McIlrath.

Assuming Moore and Stalberg don’t return, that would leave Gorton searching for a affordable replacement on the fourth line. Especially with Lindberg unable to start ’16-17.

A must is getting Pavel Buchnevich signed. The 21-year old Russian who was selected 75th overall in the third round of the 2013 NHL Draft, is ready to help the Rangers offensively. He totaled 37 points (16-21-37) in a combined 58 games with Cherepovets Severstal and St. Petersburg SKA of the KHL. With star Ilya Kovalchuk leaving, St. Petersburg SKA wants Buchnevich back. They can offer more money for him to stay.

It’s imperative for the Rangers to get Buchnevich locked up and over to North America. He was part of the Nash trade with the Blue Jackets that sent Artem Anisimov, Brandon Dubinsky, Tim Erixon and a 2013 first round pick (Kerby Rychel) to Columbus. The Jackets have since replaced Anisimov with Brandon Saad.

With Vigneault assured of returning for the fourth year of a five-year contract worth $10 million, the coach isn’t changing. As for his staff, that remains to be seen. Is the up-tempo style which risks defense for offense still the right fit? Not unless the team gets younger and faster on the back end. One look at what Henrik Lundqvist had to endure and it’s no wonder he was burnt out by the end.

We’re still in the first week of May. There’s plenty of time to discuss the future of a contending club that needs changes. Without it, they can’t seriously compete.

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Playoff Overtime: Triple OT Sharks/Preds

Posted on May 6, 2016 by Derek

Tonight has been a excellent night of playoff hockey. Both Western Semifinals have needed overtime. In the first one, the Stars found a way to even the series against the Blues.

Cody Eakin finished off a Patrick Sharp pass with a wicked shot high to the short side beating Brian Elliott at 2:58- allowing Dallas to come back and win 3-2 in Game Four. Kari Lehtonen previously bailed him out after he fell down. It was Lehtonen’s big stop that prevented the Blues from taking a 3-1 series lead.

In Nashville, the Predators are in sudden death which is starting right now against San Jose. They are there due to their energetic and passionate fans who inspired James Neal to even Game Four at three apiece with 4:21 left in regulation. Neal buried home a Ryan Ellis rebound from Colin Wilson, taking advantage of a Paul Martin turnover. Pekka Rinne then stoned Joe Thornton.

Here we go… the first minute and the tams are out looking to take advantage. Logan Couture nearly sets up Joe Pavelski, who steers it wide.

Couture again comes but a pass misses connection. Nashville tries to counter but San Jose has it back at the 18:30 mark. End to end so far. Very fast pace.

The Preds’ cohesive Swede line is out forechecking three minutes in. Both Calle Jarnkrok and Viktor Arvidsson create chances. Arvidsson had two rebound tries but couldn’t beat Martin Jones, who held the post with help from his D.

Roman Josi leads a rush that causes more tension with the Predator fans right behind them. 17 minutes left.

Nashville has looked better so far. They need this game to even the series. As I type that, Joel Ward- my overtime San Jose pick had a great wrap around and was denied. Then Donskoi had a huge chance but somehow a diving Rinne got it and Ryan Ellis helped him keep it out. Wow! Phew. It never went in. And the ref didn’t rule goal either. They review it. But it’s all for naught. Still tied 3-3 with 15:52 left.

12:07 AM here on the East coast in Staten Island, NYC. And finally a face off won by the Preds, who are breathing a huge sigh of relief. Here comes Fisher with a rush but Martin denies him. Martin has had an interesting night. Two helpers but a costly turnover on Neal’s turnover.

Now, Arvidsson nearly sets up Ryan Johansen, who just is denied by Jones. Great chances so far and we’re not even six minutes in. 14:44 to go in the first OT. Correction. Johansen’s shot rang off the far post. Jones’ best friend. Nashville has hit four posts according to CBC’s Chris Cuthbert. An excellent playcaller who I like paired with Joe Micheletti, who seems more comfortable than with Sam Rosen on MSG.

Courture with a hell of a move beating the Preds D. But Rinne denied him. Oh my. What a rush. Then a couple of more chances for his line but they can’t bury it. This was beautiful. Couture beat Ellis. And then Rinne with a great sliding pad stack with help from his D. This overtime is insane.

13:18 left and both Cuthbert and Micheletti are gushing over what they’ve seen. And why not.

12:13 EST Under 13 minutes to go, Preds with a centering opportunity but nothing happens. Now a face off in the San Jose zone. As the organist just played the theme from Mike Tyson’s Punchout. How classic is that? Little Mac must be proud.

A Josi shot is blocked. Now back the other way and Thornton makes a great pass for a shot. And Joe Pavelski believes he’s won it at 7:34. Due to Pavelski bumping into Rinne as he put in a rebound that banked in off Josi. The first shot came from Tomas Hertl. Pavelski then gets to the rebound and knocks it in as he’s down. Puck crossed after Pavelski made contact with Rinne.

Honestly, the puck was going in. Rinne had no chance. It’s a tough job for the refs, who blew the whistle for contact made from Pavelski. There is 12:26 left. The officials need indisputable evidence to overturn the decision on the ice. Wow.

Now the refs are reviewing for interference. It’s tough. Pavelski got a shove from behind by Paul Gaustad. He gloves the puck out of mid-air down and then has the presence to get a stick on it. But makes contact with Rinne before the puck crossed. The officials get it right. It’s goaltender interference. If the puck was in, that’s game over.

12:26 left If the puck had gone in first, I would say it would be ruled a goal. Unfortunate for Pavelski and the Sharks. Huge break for the Predators.

12:20 EST Back to live hockey as a puzzled Pete DeBoer looks on. I can understand his gripe. But it’s back to live hockey. Game continues. I wonder if they should consider a rule change on such plays.

It’s the Sharks fore checking here. Ward is out with Donskoi. But the Preds come out. Filip Forsberg now takes it deep. Ellis pinches in. Marc-Edouard Vlasic just had an oops moment. Looks like he cleared it over and out. He did. On his backhand. Delay of game penalty. I hate these calls. Especially in sudden death. It is what it is.

Nashville power play with 10:58 left. What happens to the stoppage where they clean the ice if the Preds don’t score?

Mattias Ekholm with a tremendous effort to deny a shorthanded bid. He really is so underrated. He has been a beast these playoffs for the Preds on that second pair. Three goals in the postseason. Strong heady play. Josi fires wide. Craig Smith stopped. Then Josi flat out denied by an aggressive Jones. Jones has been something else in his first postseason.

More furious action as Nashville firing the kitchen sink at Jones. And he just won’t break. Denies Shea Weber. Stops Forsberg. Shuts the door on Colin Wilson. Wow. That’s at least five big saves.

9:14 left and the Sharks are gonna survive. They can thank Jones.

Finally a whistle with 8:43 left. Tomas Hertl passed back for Brent Caveman Burns but he was offside. Now, the stoppage for them to clean the ice. I hate it. But this is now the rule. So, a commercial break and more money for NBC.

After a break, they are back at it. As some Blues Brothers fires up a great crowd in Nashville. 8:29 to go in the first overtime.

Now Queen plays with the classic “We Will Rock You” the theme of the 80’s…especially for the ’86 Mets when they rallied to stun the Red Sox in that famed Game Six at Shea. Amazin’ to think it’s been 30 years.

Pavelski gets a chance but out of play with 8:14 left. Face off won by Nashville in their end. Back out to neutral zone. The Sharks now try to dump it deep but they didn’t gain center ice. It’s icing. So, Justin Braun made a mistake.

Ward to take the draw in his end and Mike Fisher wins it. But the Sharks come back with Donskoi, who I like. Vlasic fires a shot wide. And now, it’s Wilson to center and over the San Jose line. But nothing develops. Both teams finally seem to be tiring. How could they not?

7:00 remaining Another Nashville dump from Bitetto doesn’t make connection. Icing on the Preds. Now we are seeing mistakes. Nashville leads in shots 8-2 but the Sharks had the best chance to end it and nearly did but Pavelski’s goal was wiped out.

 

The Sharks have it and Pavelski with a dangerous shot wide and carom off the back boards. A redirect by Thornton goes wide. Now the Preds get it deep. Back and forth they go in what’s easily one of the best games of these playoffs.

The Sharks continue to pressure. But Nashville plays solid D to get out of harm’s way. Now it’s Donskoi again on the cycle. He really is everywhere. A Burns point shot is blocked wide. The Sharks are relentless. They might not have many shots getting through but they continue to pressure.

Under 5:00 left and Burns just had a great rush. But is denied. Wilson now with a rush of his own and centers for Fisher, who is denied by Jones. Jones is making some tremendous stops. Wilson has been everywhere for the Preds as has Fisher. Two of the best Preds.

3:59 remaining Rinne stops a Braun shot that is unscreened due to good defense in front. This is a tremendous series. Everything you could want.

Cuthbert updates that Neal has attempted 17 shots as Rinne kicks out a tricky chance. Rinne is as good at stopping the puck as any goalie. He is the reason Nashville is here over the Ducks, who axed a good man in Bruce Boudreau.

The Swede line with Neal now and they are relentless against San Jose. Josi is out too. The Preds with a tremendous shift. But San Jose gets out due to Nashville running out of gas. On the other side, Brendan Dillon is denied by a Rinne glove stop. Just fantastic action in what I’d call an amazing overtime.

2:39 remaining And the Preds win the face off. Ellis dumps it in. Martin plays for Couture who gets it out to Donskoi. The guy who continues to impress me. The Sharks hold it in as we approach 2:00. Finally cleared.

Rinne just robbed Hertl on a tough angle. He’s so athletic. Braun looking and passes across for Vlasic, who just decides to fire a long shot through to Rinne, who gets the whistle. Rinne had lost his stick on the Hertly save. And he was out of position but dove back and got it. Wow.

1:12 left The Preds come out with Smith attempting one that is blocked by Martin, who has recovered nicely from his turnover that allowed Neal to send it to OT.

30 seconds to go Looks like we could get double overtime. A shot whistles wide by the Preds. Couture knocked down as time is about to run out. Couture nearly sets up a Shark on a steal. But no one is home. The buzzer sounds.

Amazingly, we are headed to a second overtime. It is still tied 3-3 in Music City. Shots are 38-31 Preds.

12:42 AM here and I still have to go do another OT of live blogging. First, I’ll switch my picks. In the first overtime, I took Jarnkrok for the Preds and Ward for the Sharks. So, double overtime, it is:

#Bucciovertimechallenge 

12:44 AM Jeremy Roenick admits that the call on Pavelski could be “series changing.” He feels that the push from behind by Gaustad was the reason for Pavelski bumping into Rinne. And you know what. He is right. Pavelski contacts Rinne due to the push. The contact was coming and the puck was going in. They have to change the rule. Anson Carter also chimes in.

“He’s pushed in. That’s my only problem with the call.”

“It’s the safe call,” adds Roenick, who emphasizes how they have video which makes it easier for them to see. The refs have tough jobs. And the goalie interference call is one that must be adjusted.

As we approach nearly 1 AM here, it’s gonna be fun. Roenick takes the Sharks, who are relentless. JR goes Couture. Carter decides Nashville will prevail with Neal getting the winner. Double the trouble. Double the fun about to start up again.

12:55 EST They are about to get going in Music City again. 11:55 in Tennessee. So, who will the hero be? If it’s the Sharks, they take a commanding 3-1 lead back home. If it’s the Preds, they even up the series meaning the home team would win the first four games, putting pressure on San Jose to hold serve. Here we go!

Shot attempts: Nashville 84-68 notes Cuthbert. Wilson in on the cycle but San Jose has it. Hertl with a great move and gets the puck over to Pavelski for a quality chance. But Rinne denies him 35 seconds in.

A minute into period six. Smith with a shot blocked. Then battles to get back in but is shut down. A big San Jose turnover and Arvidsson missed high and wide. Point blank too. Wilson doing some more fore checking. These guys are relentless.

Over two minutes in and the Preds again look like the team early on with the best chances. But the Sharks now get it in deep. Some tough board work between. Thornton got his stick up on a Pred. It’s Miika Salomaki who takes the stick from Jumbo Joe and the refs do make the call.

Power play Nashville. Two minutes. No blood. 17:04 left. They keep redoing draws. Neither broadcaster like it. Sharks get a clear and the Preds now must regroup. Johansen got the puck to a cruising Neal but he fired it over the top. Another Sharks clear gets it to 1:00 left on the penalty kill.

Nashville playing it now. Weber to Forsberg. Forsberg plays catch with Smith. Good possession and movement. But no set ups or shots. San Jose won’t allow it. One more clear and that’s it. Thornton back at the 15-minute mark.

Arvidsson is everywhere for the Preds. Maybe they should try him on the power play. Kidding. I am impressed with his energy. The overtime chances are 6-5 Preds. This one is more defensive oriented and slower moving. Tactical. Not as many shots. It’s gonna be a mistake that decides it.

Predators are doing some good work. A collision behind the net between Neal and Martin results in zilch. Pavelski tries a move but is denied. Braun keeps it in. Hertl denied on the doorstep by Rinne, who is tremendous to watch.

Now it picks up with the Preds coming close. Playoff overtime is as good as it gets in sports. A wide Melker Karlsson shot caroms out and the Preds try to start something. Then it’s the Sharks with a chance but Tierney can’t deflect a centering pass on net.

Ellis with a couple of nice keeps. Then fires a tough, low shot that Jones is nervously able to cover up. It was tricky. Cuthbert had noted how Ellis, an offensive defenseman in World Junior for Canada, has never had an overtime goal.

A Vlasic shot is blocked. Smith tries to get a backhand off but nothing doing. Already 10 minutes played. That is how fast this second OT is going.

With 9:55 left, Rinne makes another great stop on a tricky and dangerous Pavelski shot from the slot. It was low. It was with a defenseman on him. It was tough. But Rinne has it. And that gives them another stoppage to clean the ice. They have played a total of 90:05 so far in Nashville. Game Four remains tied 3-3.

“Let’s Go Preds” is the chant from the Nashville crowd. A Thornton win leads to a Martin shot redirected off Rinne. Then a recovery leads to a long Martin point shot off the crossbar. San Jose that close to ending it.

A Sharks’ turnover causes a Smith chance that Jones is able to pad aside. More Predator pressure but no more shots. It’s now the Sharks back on the cycle with their energy line. But a blocked shot leads a transition. Lot more turnovers from each side in the neutral zone as a whistle for offsides with 7:58 remaining in the second overtime.

So, it continues with under eight minutes to go. Both teams make changes with 7:25 left. An icing by the Preds now with 7:09 left gives the Sharks another opportunity. DeBoer keeping Pavelski out with the dangerous Hertl. And yet another whistle on a face off. Odd.

Thornton in to take it. But a huge win for Jarnkrok prevents Jumbo Joe from going to a backhand to find Burns. Now an off side on San Jose with 7:02 left. Thornton’s beard has reached the Moses level. He looks so old with it. What would he look like if the Sharks make the Stanley Cup Final? One wonders. Ditto for Burns.

A Weber keep allows Nashville some fore check pressure. A Gaustad shot is deflected wide. Sharks out of trouble. They now are in on the attack with six minutes to go. But nothing comes of it. This is looking like it might go to triple overtime.

The Nashville crowd comes to life as they encourage their team. They played a role in Neal’s tying goal. Their enthusiasm and energy was tremendous. Rinne catches a Ward redirect with the glove. So calm, cool and collected as Eric Clapton’s classic “After Midnight” plays. So appropriate. It’s 12:20 AM in Music City.

Five minutes exactly and the Preds are on the fore check. Ekholm keeps but Couture clears for Ward. Now it’s Donskoi behind the net. Martin now sends it down low. Some good sledding by the guys in teal. Tommy Wingels had a man all alone but the redirect by Matt Nieto didn’t find twine. He was so wide open. Maybe not playing much was a factor.

Are you kidding me with that denial by Rinne on Hertl! After some set up by Thornton. What a pass by an all-time great. The save by Rinne was ridiculous. My god. The pass by Jumbo Joe was remarkable. But then the reply by Rinne. Wow!

The Sharks trying hard to end it here as three minutes hit. All sorts of pressure. But they still can’t find that winner. My god. What a tremendous push. San Jose is so tough with their offense. It’s amazing. But the Preds are hanging in thanks to Rinne and a gritty D.

That whole play was offside. Weber went in before the Pred got to the bench. But Weber hi-sticks Martin badly and bloodies him with 2:03 left. And it’s gotta be a double minor. Why? There’s blood everywhere. How could that be?

I am baffled by the call. But San Jose hasn’t protested. So maybe it’s the right call. Anyway, San Jose after a timeout with a great chance with 2:03 to go.

A Burns one-timer flies wide. Wow. Can he shoot it. My God. A goalie has no chance if it hits. Well, almost. He already has one. One minute to go and Burns winds up but it’s blocked. The Preds are not allowing the Sharks much set up time. They know it’s their postseason lives here. And they’re showing such desperation. I can’t say enough about the effort we are seeing from the guys in those ugly mustard colors. Wow.

14.1 seconds is enough time. Pavelski wins it. But the puck is sent wide. A Nashville clear results in a big ovation by a huge Nashville crowd. And wow. Is it deserved. The game of these playoffs. And we are going to a third overtime as predicted in this live blog. I am at over 3100 words so far. Who needs sleep!

Triple overtime will happen as it passes 1:30 AM in NYC. My 3rd overtime picks to John Buccigross in the #Bucciovertimechallenge:

https://twitter.com/NewYorkPuck/status/728458356843675650

I am going with two gritty guys over the skill ones. At this point, it’s usually those types that decide such long games.

San Jose and Nashville have now played 100 minutes of hockey in Game Four. Whoever prevails should get huge momentum for Game Five. If the Preds find a way to win this and the longer it goes I feel they will, they could carry it forward and steal a game in San Jose.

1:42 AM here in Staten Island, NYC half an hour from the greatest city alive. The Big Apple. The City That Never Sleeps. New York, New York!

I had to run upstairs for my laptop charger to keep energy going. I didn’t miss much luckily. Almost a minute in. Gotta think it ends soon.

Shot attempts are now 98-95. The Sharks have come back in that department. A Thornton shows sails wide. … Marleau fore checking. He’s been kinda quiet. Marleau had a backhand wrap around wide open with Rinne out but couldn’t quite get it to go.

The longest game in Preds history officially. They have never won a playoff overtime game. Interesting. Will it happen?

Donskoi is my pick for the Sharks. I like how he plays. I took Arvidsson for similar reasons for the Preds. Good energy guys who are around the puck and the net.

On the replay, Josi got the Marleau attempt with his skate sending it wide. Actually, it was his stick. My god.

16:26 left in triple overtime

A Thornton low shot is kicked out by Rinne, who is just so fundamentally sound. I find him more fun to watch than Lundqvist. No disrespect to Hank. But I just find Rinne more entertaining. He has a Hasek-like quality to him in how he plays the position. The Dominator is my all-time favorite goalie. Mike Richter of course is second. Then Henrik.

I am almost at 3500 words in this live blog. Holy cow. 😮

The time keeps moving and these teams keep going. Nothing is separating them. They continue to try to find the winner. There are blocks that are just huge because they deny bids to end it. Micheletti praises Couture for such a block that allowed the Sharks to escape trouble and start a transition. Blocked shots do that. This isn’t Flyers/Pens Keith Primeau in the fifth overtime. It’s even more hectic.

San Jose pressuring heavily and then a turnover. Here comes Wilson with a breakaway in on Jones. And what a stop by Jones, denying the Wilson backhand, deke. He tried to go five-hole. But a sliding denial with the pad by Jones and underneath with 12:42 left!

With 12:01 left, we have a penalty. But it appears it’s on Nashville. Weber knocked down Tierney in front into Rinne. A dumb penalty. Selfish. Undisciplined by the Preds’ captain. Very bad timing too because it brings the ever dangerous Sharks’ power play. And puts Weber in the box. A double whammy for the Preds.

It could end here. They play appropriately enough “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey. And that’s what it’ll take for Nashville to prevent the end.

A clean face off win to Burns for that howitzer. Rinne with the stop. Puck cleared. Another set up and Rinne again with a save. He is amazing.

This power play is good. Dangerous. They had Burns set up again but he sent it wide. Vlasic lost control of the puck, allowing a breather for the Preds PK. Looks like they could survive. The crowd is ready to erupt. And they do as another clear does it. Man oh man. They have played over 110 minutes and still tied at three.

A great chance for Smith in front but it’s blocked. I mean that could be game over. Then he gets set up in front by Johansen but missed. Point blank too. My god. And an icing gets a whistle. There are under 10 minutes left. And still they go on. Another stoppage.

9:21 left On the replay, Roman Polak blocked Smith’s attempt in front. Polak was picked up at the deadline by San Jose from Toronto, solidifying the Sharks’ D corps.

They have played 55 minutes and 10 seconds since Neal tied it. A note from Cuthbert, who is excellent describing it.

And finally it ends! Mike Fisher on the rebound puts it home to give the Predators a much needed Game Four win by a score of 4-3! The grit of a determined player who is always willing to get dirty. So, history is made.

Excited fans throw their mustard yellow towels on the ice in jubilation. Ekholm sent the shot on Jones, who couldn’t quite control the rebound. And Fisher tallies at 111:12 of the third overtime from Ekholm. They call it unassisted. But I doubt it.

Mike Fisher, Martin Jones

Mike Fisher made history for the Predators scoring at 111:12 of the third overtime in the longest game of the 2016 NHL Playoff to give Nashville its first ever franchise win in playoff overtime. They defeated the Sharks 4-3 in Game 4 to even the Western Conference Semifinal at 2-2. AP Photo by Mark Humphrey/Getty Images.

It is Fisher’s second career playoff OT goal. And I am almost at 4,000 words. Fisher talking with Micheletti. A hard working guy that’s easy to admire.

“Second game I’ve played with Neal. And Colin Wilson’s been unbelievable.”

“Just rest up. Get fluids. As far as the game, just keep it simple. Don’t turn pucks over. Don’t sit back too much.”

More Fisher: “Trying to block as many shots, especially Burns getting it through there. … Take away as many shots as possible. And Pekka was unbelievable.”-On the Sharks’ power play

Game Totals:

Shots favored the Sharks 47-45.

Rinne finishes with 44 saves

Jones with 41.

Shot Attempts: Sharks 111 Predators 102

Hits: Sharks 34 Predators 39

Blocked Shots: Sharks 34 Predators 39

Face Offs: Sharks 44 Predators 58

It all adds up to a well earned Predators’ 4-3 triple overtime win in Game Four over the Sharks, evening the entertaining and hardly fought best-of-seven Western Conference Semifinal series at 2-2. The home team has won all four games. Now, the pressure is squarely on San Jose for a pivotal Game Five on Saturday night. We’ll see what they’re made of.

For Nashville, it’s their first ever playoff win in overtime. They have the momentum. Can they ride it? Or will the Sharks be able to recover in front of a great atmosphere at HP Pavilion? We shall see.

After 4223 words, I am done. Good night.

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Islanders must move on from Boyle hit

Posted on May 4, 2016 by Derek
Following a big hit delivered on Thomas Hickey, Brian Boyle did in the Islanders by scoring the overtime winner in Game Three. The Lightning lead the second round series 2-1. AP Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

Following a big hit delivered on Thomas Hickey, Brian Boyle did in the Islanders by scoring the overtime winner in Game Three. The Lightning lead the second round series 2-1. AP Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

In the NHL Playoffs, the hitting is ferocious as is the intensity. This postseason’s been no exception. In both the first and second round, we’ve seen questionable hits cause injury, aggravation and frustration.

During their first round series loss to the Penguins, the Rangers were up in arms over this undetected Kris Letang stick swing that took out three of Viktor Stalberg’s teeth. NHL Player Safety didn’t even discipline him for it. Ironically, Letang did get punished for his illegal hit that could’ve seriously injured the Caps’ Marcus Johansson in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semifinal the other night. Only called an interference minor, the All-Star defenseman stayed in the game his team hung on to win 3-2 to take a two games to one lead. He is suspended for tonight’s Game Four which starts in a few minutes on NBC Sports Network.

It was in last night’s tough Islanders’ 5-4 overtime loss to the Lightning in Game Three at Barclays Center that another tough hit led directly to the game-winning goal scored by Brian Boyle at 2:48. Moments earlier, it was Boyle who came across and delivered a hit that knocked down Isles’ defenseman Thomas Hickey. As he laid on the ice, it started a three-on-one for the Bolts with Boyle getting a fortuitous bounce on a wide Victor Hedman shot that caromed off the back boards, allowing him to beat Thomas Greiss for the overtime winner.

After falling in heartbreaking fashion, Islanders coach Jack Capuano fumed over the Boyle hit. He and team captain John Tavares were visibly upset charging that Boyle’s controversial hit cost them the game.

“It’s a direct shot to the head,” Capuano charged in a New York Post article written by Brett Cyrgalis. “[Boyle is] probably going to get suspended a game. The whole game, it shouldn’t come down to that.”

While that’s true to a certain extent, it doesn’t fully explain the end of regulation. Cal Clutterbuck put them in front 4-3 with 8:37 left. But Tampa’s young ace Jonathan Drouin patiently waited before somehow finding just enough real estate for a seam pass to Nikita Kucherov, who tied the game with his playoff-leading seventh at 19:21.

In essence, that was where Game Three turned in the Lightning’s favor. A flat Islanders never recovered, losing quickly in sudden death on Boyle’s rebound. If you watched the Boyle hit which can be seen on the video provided above closely, he never leaves his feet. Instead, the bigger 6-7, 243-pound Boyle simply delivers a shoulder hit to a prone Hickey. If you look at it enough, Boyle makes shoulder to chest contact catching Hickey’s chin which knocked him down and forced the turnover.

Is it a “head shot” as Capuano claims? The issue with some hits is that they can wind up high and make head contact. However, not every hit is dirty. In this case, it looks like a bigger player delivering a clean check that caught a smaller player who wasn’t expecting to be hit. Nothing was called on the play, allowing it to continue- resulting in Boyle’s OT winner.

In this particular instance, the two refs and two linesman got it right. Unfortunately, it cost the Isles a game they had under control. They had done a good job protecting the one-goal lead following Clutterbuck’s tip in past Ben Bishop of a Casey Cizikas pass. Even after Tampa coach Jon Cooper pulled Bishop for an extra attacker, they hadn’t gotten much. In fact, the Isles could’ve sealed it with a vacated net but the Bolts recovered just in time.

 

Ironically enough, Drouin had just returned from taking a similar hit from Hickey back in the second period. In that case, a puck carrying Drouin came across the Isles’ blue line and was drilled by a great Hickey open ice hit that took him off the puck. He missed the rest of the second before returning in the third and impacting the game. Afterwards, the Bolts’ second-year forward said it was a good, clean hit.

Not everyone agreed. Some thought Hickey left his feet. In watching the hit, it’s close. But I don’t think it merited a penalty or any discipline. Not coincidentally, Hickey’s hit on Drouin wasn’t reviewed by the Department of Player Safety either.

In each case, both hits were fine. It’s hockey. Sometimes, it happens. This wasn’t a case where a player crossed the line such as Brooks Orpik on Olli Maatta. On that one, he came too high and caught Maatta flush with a late hit that was a head shot, injuring the Pens’ defenseman who hasn’t returned since. Orpik received three games and won’t return until Game Six if there is one.

NHL officials and NHL Player Safety have a tough job. We don’t always agree with their decisions. But they’re not always wrong. The game is faster than it’s ever been. From time to time, things get missed. If you watched how badly outplayed the Rangers were by the Pens, I don’t think a double minor to Letang would’ve made any difference. However, they only trailed by one and lost 2-1 in Game Three. But they were dominated.

For the Islanders, they must move on. Game Three is over and done with. They had an opportunity to take a 2-1 series lead. Ultimately, they blew it. Rather than focus on Boyle, they must turn their attention to Game Four, which isn’t until Friday. Make no mistake about it. They must win that game on home ice. If they don’t, their season will probably end.

In Game Three, it wasn’t all bad. Josh Bailey returned and rewarded Capuano’s faith by scoring twice. He had a great game after missing the first two due to an injury. So much for all the criticism that he shouldn’t have replaced Ryan Strome. Bailey is a better overall player at this point, playing more responsibly in his end. Strome is still not a finished product. He impacted Game One recording two primary assists on a pair of Shane Prince goals in a 5-3 win. But was ineffective going minus-one with no shots in a 4-1 Game Two defeat.

Brock Nelson has also struggled. After notching two helpers in the first game, he is without a point in two straight with three shots and a minus-one. During the regular season, he scored 26 goals but has only one in the playoffs. None over the last eight. Kyle Okposo is also without a goal in eight straight. He’s been quiet so far against Tampa with one assist despite recording a game high 10 hits on Tuesday. The Isles need more from their second leading scorer.

Speaking of which, Tavares didn’t record a point for the second consecutive game. In Game One, he was dominant scoring his team-leading sixth and setting up another. A tighter checking Lightning have paid closer attention to him. He and Okposo each were minus-two in Game Three. The Islanders won’t come back if Tavares doesn’t lead them. He’s the best player in the series.

So far, that distinction goes to Tampa defenseman Victor Hedman, who recorded his second goal of the series and helped set up Kucherov’s tying marker after making a great defensive play. Hedman has been a big factor in the Bolts’ two straight wins, recording two goals and three helpers while going plus-four and playing more minutes than any other skater. Cooper has no choice with Anton Stralman still out. He’s leaned hard on the former ’09 second overall pick, who came behind Tavares. Matt Duchene followed at number three.

With the big Game Four still two days away, the Isles must be ready. The focus is on evening the series and turning it into a best-of-three.

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Rangers re-sign Raanta, Bigger decisions remain

Posted on May 2, 2016 by Derek
Henrik Lundqvist, Antti Raanta, Derek Stepan

New York Rangers’ Derek Stepan (21) encourages goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) as goalie Antti Raanta (32) replaces Lundqvist during the second period of the Rangers’ NHL hockey game against the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, April 2, 2016, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Unlike past off seasons, the Rangers didn’t wait around to get started. With the team out of the playoffs early, new GM Jeff Gorton took care of one matter by re-signing Antti Raanta to a two-year deal worth a reported $2 million.

After coming over from the Blackhawks last summer, the 26-year old backup goalie had a good first season on Broadway. As a Blueshirt, he went 11-6-2 with a 2.25 goals-against-average with a .919 save percentage and one shutout. The affable Finn was a perfect replacement for Cam Talbot, who moved to Edmonton becoming their number one goalie.

A good team guy with a intriguing personality, Raanta goes from earning $800,000 to $1 million per season. A slight bump in salary for the popular netminder fans took to quickly. After winning his first four decisions, he went through a slump not winning again until Feb. 18. He admitted that his confidence was down but approached the start at Toronto differently, making 35 saves in a 4-2 win. From that point, he was much better winning seven of his last eight starts.

With Henrik Lundqvist struggling in a disappointing five-game first round series loss to the Penguins, Raanta made his first postseason appearance. He replaced an injured Lundqvist in Game One after the first period, stopping 16 of 19 shots to take a 5-2 loss. He also relieved Lundqvist in Games 4 and 5 totaling 18 saves on 19 shots.

With Raanta signed, now Gorton can turn his attention to bigger things next month. He will face important decisions, including on key unrestricted free agent defenseman Keith Yandle, who would like to return. A lot depends on what the organization decides to do with proud veteran blueliners Dan Girardi and Marc Staal. One could be a possible trade candidate while the other a potential buyout. If they retain both, then Rick Nash could be on the block as a salary cap casualty.

There also is the matter of key restricted’s Chris Kreider, J.T. Miller and Kevin Hayes. All are due raises with Miller putting up personal bests with 22 goals and 43 points. Kreider matched his best in goals with 21 and also had 43 points. Hayes struggled in his second year posting 14 goals and 22 assists while failing to record a point in the first three games against the Pens before coach Alain Vigneault scratched him.

Depth forwards Dominic Moore and Viktor Stalberg can also test the market. Rental Eric Staal will likely leave after failing to have an impact. What will the team decide on Group II free agent Dylan McIlrath? His rookie season was solid getting into 34 games with two goals and two assists while racking up 64 penalty minutes. The issue is Vigneault, who never showed confidence in the big, physical defenseman despite steady play and bringing an edge that the rest of the D lacked. It would be a mistake to get rid of him.

Figure a spot will open for impressive rookie Brady Skjei, whose skating and defense should make him a fixture on the back end for the next decade. McIlrath should be a part of it if the organization is smart. We’ll see.

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A Shark Attack

Posted on May 2, 2016 by Derek
Joe Pavelski.jpg

Joe Pavelski is clutch scoring the go-ahead goal with 2:40 left in the Sharks’ 3-2 win over the Predators to win Game Two. AP Photo by Tony Avelar/Getty Images

The Sharks continue to win hockey games in various ways this postseason. They got the better of the Kings in the first round winning three of the first four games by one goal. In their Game One win over the Predators, they used a great third period scoring five times to rally for a 5-2 home victory.

Tonight, it was another big finish that allowed San Jose to win Game Two 3-2 over a resilient Nashville. They now lead the Western Conference Semifinal two games to none with the next two in Music City. In many aspects, the Predators probably deserved a better fate but find themselves in a 2-0 deficit needing to respond when the series continues on Tuesday.

The Preds controlled a good portion of the contest. They fired more shots on Sharks goalie Martin Jones, peppering him with 39 shots including 16 in the second period. Despite a 26-17 edge after 40 minutes, they trailed on the scoreboard due to a Logan Couture power play goal that came at 18:36 of the second from Joe Pavelski and Brent Burns. Couture was in the right spot to rebound home a Pavelski shot past Pekka Rinne for a 1-0 lead.

Undeterred, Nashville came out and played a great third. They really carried the play and eventually tied the game up thanks to a nice goal from defenseman Mattias Ekholm. He took a Colin Wilson feed between his legs and in one motion fired a perfect shot thru a maze past Jones tying the score with 7:04 left. Roman Josi picked up the secondary helper.

Ekholm could’ve had more. On the next shift, he was all over the San Jose sign very active pinching and firing shots. That’s what the Preds get from a back end that features Josi and star captain Shea Weber. Josi recorded two assists in the tough defeat. Ekholm had five shots and eight attempts. Along with partner Ryan Ellis, they form a strong second pair behind arguably the league’s best in Josi and Weber.

The goaltending from both sides was superb. There was a ridiculous Rinne stop that denied a Nick Spaling shorthanded bid on a perfect two-on-one feed from Couture. The acrobatic Nashville goalie stoned him keeping the game scoreless prior to Couture’s power play tally. He also made two big saves later when his team trailed. Rinne finished with 22 saves. He wasn’t at fault on either goal he allowed.

For a while, it looked like a more determined Predators would find a way to win Game Two and gain a split like the other three series. They applied pressure but Jones had an excellent night making 37 saves. Many clutch with Nashville going for it late in regulation. It’s funny how that works.

Instead, it was a great transition from the Sharks that resulted in Pavelski’s winner with only 2:40 to go. Joe Thornton made a great pass centering for an open Matt Nieto, who was stopped by Rinne. A quick Pavelski jumped on the loose puck and buried it as a sliding Weber tried to make a last ditch effort to deny him. Pavelski has been clutch this postseason. It was his sixth goal.

After Rinne was pulled for an extra attacker, there was the ever reliable Thornton winning a defensive draw that led to him receiving a Couture clear for an empty netter with 56 seconds left. That made it 3-1 and ironically, wound up the winner. During a mad scramble, Ryan Johansen was able to finally put one past an outstretched Jones following saves on Mike Fisher and Josi at 19:56. But with less than four seconds left, there wasn’t enough time.

And so, these Sharks are now 6-1 this postseason. They continue to find ways to win games. They do it with big performances from their top players. Pavelski, Couture and Thornton all are getting it done. They do it thanks to role players like Joel Ward, who scored a huge go-ahead tally in Game One. They win because the Caveman, Brent Burns continues to rack up points from the blue line and make diving plays like the one he made to deny a Nashville chance. There’s a reason he’s one of three defensemen up for the Norris. He outplayed Drew Doughty in the first round.

San Jose is here because their defense is executing. Marc-Edouard Vlasic remains one of the game’s most underrated performers on D. A great defensive defenseman, he logged a team high 24:03 in 30 shifts finishing plus-one with three shots, seven attempts, and four of the Sharks’ 25 blocked shots. Former Leaf Roman Polak also blocked four. He’s part of a deeper blue line that includes Paul Martin, Justin Braun and Brenden Dillon.

Throw in the steady Jones, who continues to prove he’s a legit number one goalie, and the Sharks are serious contenders. In the past, he was Jonathan Quick’s back up. But when Los Angeles pulled the trigger on a blockbuster trade with Boston involving Milan Lucic, Jones was parted with. The Bruins already had Tuukka Rask. So, they moved Jones to the Sharks, who needed a new number one. All he’s done is win 37 games while posting a 2.27 goals-against average, .918 save percentage with six shutouts in his first year as a starter.

Not bad for a 26-year old who was never drafted despite representing Team Canada at the Under-20 World Junior Championship in 2010. While his former teammate Quick won 40 games and was nominated as one of three goalies for the Vezina along with front runner Braden Holtby and Ben Bishop, Jones was overlooked despite impressive numbers. He’s also a bargain earning three million this season and the following two.

So, is it finally the Sharks’ time? Hopefully.

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