National Hockey League Playoffs 2019 -

Well, it's that time of year again where we whittle down the remaining playoff teams to we get one night were hockey fans relentlessly boo Commissioner Bettman and envy the captain awarded the Stanley Cup.
Last year, I stopped doing the playoff beard, it resulted in the hometown team and 2x defending Stanley Cup winners losing in the second round. Sure enough, I think I need to do it again this year. IT WORKED!
In 2019 we have a bunch of teams that have never won the Stanley Cup versus a few teams that have won it in the past looking to build on a dynasty (like 80s Oilers and Islanders). It took a little more time for a couple of teams that have been trying for years to put the right combination of players together. Which team is built to go the long haul of 16 more wins and hoisting the Cup (and a future banner)? We'll examine which teams are likely to move on to the next round.
Western Conference

Nashville v. Dallas
Could this be the year of the Nashville Predators? "Smashville" as they are marketed as, don't have very many famous names on the roster (other than P.K. Subban). They are a defensive juggernaut where Pekka Rinne is the stalwart goaltender. I predict they will stop the Dallas Stars run into hockey relevance. It's been a while since we've seen the Dallas Stars in the post season. Even with a few appearances (2), the Dallas Stars have been post-seasonally struggling since 2007-08.
Prediction: Predators in 6

St. Louis v. Winnipeg
Is THIS the year that the St. Louis Blues finally make a run to the Stanley Cup finals? They are the Chicago Cubs of the NHL and the lovable losers. They seem to have stuck with this generation of players. From O'Rielly, Tarasenko, Peron, and Schenn and their goaltender Jake Allen. I don't know how the new "Finnish Flash" Patrik Laine will have an answer for all the experience. Outside of Little and Byfuglien, I don't see them holding off this kind of a challenge. It was just another unfortunate bad match-up for them. And once the Jets make the first run exit, look for Coach Maurice's firing.
Prediction: Blues in 5

Colorado v. Calgary
Who knew that the Colorado Avalanche were so good? They were the quiet team that hung in there and clawed their way overtop their Western rivals Ducks, Kings, BlackHawks. Look for McKinnon, Rantanen, and captain Landeskog to get more experience together in the playoffs and learn to win like so many other teams have grown into their playoff potentials. Calgary is another team that is in the trial and error period of gathering together a corps of young talent in the draft and pairing it with the right players to support them. Look for Giordano, Monahan, and Gaudreau to put it together and play well throughout the playoffs.
Prediction: Flames in 6

Vegas vs San Jose
The Vegas Golden Knights and their fans have never known what it's like to not be in the Playoffs. From their historical 1st run to today, they are certainly a force to be reckoned with. They will surely rival the "Shark tank" in Northern California as far as over-hyping of expectations. The Sharks were in the finals the year before Vegas and they know the grind is real. This might be the "leave it all on the table" before they have to tear it down for a major rebuilding process. Burns and Thorton and Pavelski are in their twilight years. Send them off with respect!

Prediction: Vegas in 6

Eastern Conference

Tampa Bay v. Columbus
The curse of the President's Trophy rests on the broad shoulders of the Tampa Bay Lightning. They've built their franchise from the doldrums of expansion teams to one of the best teams as a perennial playoff performer. You can thank the Columbus Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella for that. He raised the franchise's first Stanley Cup in 2004. They have come close a few more times since then, but it may very well be the last hurrah for Steven Stamkos as a number of injuries have stalled his career. Look for Tampa Bay to hand the baton of leadership to Kucherov, Hedman, and Point. I'm sorry for the Columbus Blue Jackets yet again finding a bad matchup opening round opponent. Unless the Blue Jackets play a defense-first strategy, I don't see them outscoring.
Prediction: Tampa Bay in 5

Toronto v. Boston
It always seems to be the bane of the Leaf Nation existence that they always run into the Boston Bruins. I can tell you that they are STILL not over the playoff collapses to the Bruins in recent years. So, it's been a trial and error to build a championship caliber team. The addition of "pajama boy" John Tavares, an Toronto area resident. While the Bruins have refreshed their roster of support pieces since they last met, Marchand and Bergeron, Rask, Chara, Krejci are all still there and know how to shut down the Maple Leafs attack. But is this the year that Toronto overcomes their "El Guapo"? All of those players are another year older and Toronto has the young fresh legs. Look for Marner, Matthews, and Tavares to start their first chapter in a long career of playoff game heroism.

Prediction: Toronto in 7

Carolina v. Washington
Out of a renewed storm of interest in the hockey team, these "bunch of jerks" are facing the defending Stanley Cup champions. The "Ovi-train" Alex Ovechkin is going to be the "russian machine never breaks". I really don't have much to say here for this prediction other than I don't give much of a chance to the Hurricanes this year. The Capitals are still the strong team they always were the whole season, but this time, they have the defending championship pressures and fans with even higher expectations.

Prediction: Capitals in 4

Pittsburgh v. NY Islanders
The Penguins have been a streaky team this year, but when their backs are up against the wall, they find a way to come through in the clutch. Draw penalties, cycle in their offensive zone, and supporting their goalies with blocked shots. Those will be the key to victory. Malkin has been abused all year physically, but reached the milestone of 1,000 points in his career. He's already on record by hoping that he faces the Blues in the playoffs. The Islanders have found a very good defensive first system having hired Coach Trotz who figured them out as the Capitals coach. Look for a really really really crazy crowd on Long Island.

Prediction: Penguins in 7

2016 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 3

I don't know if the Penguins are considered to be as a "shocking upset", but they did seem to upset a lot of Capitals fans and mainstream media personalities as well. It's amazing what the Penguins have been doing, because it's been without their top two stars. Crosby is 3g and 7a for 10p in 11 games played. Malkin is 3g and 6a for 9p in 10 games played. This is not going to get either of these players Conn Smythe considerations for playoff MVP. I don't think this is sustainable now that they've gone this deep into the tournament. We here are going to wait and see how the team adjusts to the next challenge.

As for the San Jose Sharks, It's Stanley Cup or bust with them. Their beards can't get any bigger than they are - or can they? Their elder statesmen have to ride off together because if they don't, then surely they are going to reconstruct the roster without them.

The excitement must be really huge in Southern California this year as well as the possibility of Blues fans seeing a Finals appearance in 49 years.

Let's break it down a little further below:


Western Conference


St. Louis v. San Jose
St. Louis now got it in their heads that they can be world beaters and fight off the best teams in the NHL. The Blues haven't been to the Stanley Cup finals, but they've gotten to the Conference finals back in the Gretzky days. I'd expect to see a real tired group of players with the Sharks and Blues to play a slow prodding Game 1. They've extended their playoff games to playing 14 games already. They're beat up. Both of them. I'd give the edge in goaltending with the Blues. Allen and Elliot are a great tandem, but just makes the old truism still relevant: "Having two starting goaltenders means you 'aint got one". Look for Thornton and Pavelski to cram a few goals out through their sheer force of beard will. I'm rooting for Jaden Schwartz to get to the finals considering all he has gone through.

Prediction: Blues in 5


Eastern Conference


Pittsburgh v. Tampa Bay

I'd say that the Lightning team is only the second team that truly threatens to derail the Pittsburgh Penguins hot playoff run. Matt Murray has been playing above his pay grade for months now in Fleury's absence. They've created somewhat of a controversy, but Coach Richards has indicated that he's going to go with the "hot hand". But then, when will Fleury get a chance knowing full well he's their number one guy and having not been in a game for months is not good. He could be very rusty the next time they need him. Tampa's goalie doesn't have this problem. Bishop is 8-2 with a .938 GAA. Look for Drouin to extend his desire to be the "next one" in Tampa. He wants to be treated like a franchise player, so NOW is the time to show it. I don't think the 'Bolts have the kind of depth that the Penguins have in Defense. Victor Hedman is their true #1, but other than that, they've got average NHL talent there. The Penguins will move the puck out of the zone quicker with Maatta, Letang, and Daley.

Prediction: Penguins in 6

To Err Is Human, To Forgive is Divine...

There was no further need to accelerate the vitriolic hate that permeates the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals rivalry. In this series, a new chapter to the Pens/Caps rivalry is written with many players switching teams. Capitals with 4 former Penguins while Pittsburgh has one key ex-Capital.

During game two, a face familiar to both teams had thrust himself into the national spotlight as Brooks Orpik had laid out young Finnish defenseman Olli Maatta. My first thoughts weren't of anger initially, but immediate concern for Maatta's well-being. Then the play was stopped as the NBC broadcast camera starts to pan in towards rubbery Maatta laying prone on the ice. He was KO'd before he even hit the ice surface. Once the whistle had sounded, I looked and expected the referee to motion towards the guilty forty-four for a long stay in the penalty box. None were forthcoming.

I guess once the initial shock had worn off, disappointment and disbelief arrived to find that a once respected hero athlete who wore the black & gold for many seasons delivered a vicious hit to a former teammate. People still wear Orpik's jersey to games and never quit mentioning the trivial origins of his first name as connections to a legendary Penguins coach. Orpik is remembered fondly in Pittsburgh as a rough and tough player who leveled Red Wings players with heavy bodychecks when appropriate. Now that he wears the enemy's colors, are Penguins fans forced to condemn and make hyperbolic statements about him? 

I could wildly speculate a little deeper to what might Orpik had been thinking. He had been playing Maatta closely, but swoops back in toward to set a huge hit well after the puck sailed far away. Did Orpik target Maatta knowing that he was made expendable in the Penguins organization? Was revenge on his mind? Or was there clearly no thought process at all?

Today, Orpik owned up to his actions while making a classy statement:

Orpik accepted responsibility for the head hit he delivered that injured Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Olli Maatta, saying his three-game suspension was “fair” and that he made a “pretty bad mistake.”

He then went on in reports to explain that he told the Capitals that the Penguins would buckle under the pressure if they played a strong body checking game. He'd seen it happen before.

But now that I've heard his reactions to the steep 3 playoff game suspension, I've settled with Orpik emotionally. I can't ever condone what he did to the young Penguins player who had already been beset with injuries, but the matter is settled and closure is achieved. I forgive Orpik's reckless play.

However...

It still leaves a few other directions to channel my disgust and anger. The referees who didn't call a penalty on Orpik and towards the Barry Trotz who suggested that the Penguins got preferential favoritism when the suspension was handed out. Trotz must have been channeling his inner- Stan Van Gundy. I recall Van Gundy tried to win "the war" of public opinion in the press by claiming that superstars always get the in-favor bias with the front office and officials.

The sensible thing would be that the inflammatory rhetoric Trotz used in his vague allegations would be laughed off, but in this case, he's looking to further incidents like this one in hopes that pressure might sway things back in their hands.

The referees made a mistake by not awarding this disastrous hit a 5-minute major penalty. At worst it's a match penalty. Did the referees decide or expect the Penguins to retaliate with hits of their own targeting their former player? Would justice be served by allowing Orpik to skate freely with a perennial target on his back? The more I think about the mistake the referees made, the angrier I get at surely having to listen to know-it-all pundits who feast on verbally pummeling the NHL for not taking better care of their players and doling out stricter penalties.

So, the Pens/Caps rivalry has yet another chapter forged between them in history. It's not like the playoffs weren't already raised up. But the rage-filled debate will yet again. For that, I can't tolerate another hit like Orpik's.

2016 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 2

Thank you, St. Louis Blues, for ruining my Stanley Cup predictions bracket for the second year in a row! Last year, I'd thought that it was finally going to be the Blues' year to get over the playoff hump and contend for further play. I'd even advised others on the Blues potential with the confidence of selecting them in my playoff brackets. They "screwed" me. This year, I was determined not to be fooled again by the Blues' chances. Thanks for the bittersweet job you did against the Hawks in the first round and eliminating them. So to the second round, we all go with plenty of new faces to talk about. Will there be a "shocking upset" in this round?


Western Conference


St. Louis v. Dallas
St. Louis is certainly playing inspired hockey as they've just taken down a perennial Cup contender in the Hawks. I was really glad to see that Jaden Schwartz has a point-per-game pace with 7 points in the playoffs. His late sister would've been proud of him, I'm sure. But the Stars are on a real resurgence behind their captain Benn. Look for him to add to his scoring totals. But in the end, I think the Blues goaltender Allen will hold up his part of the bargain and keep them in most all games this series.

Prediction: Blues in 5

Nashville v. San Jose
Here's another series with two more teams that can't seem to move on and underachieve in the playoffs. This might be the last ride for the Sharks as currently constructed. Their aging vets Thorton, Pavelski, and Marleau are plodding along with fan favorite Brent Burns and all his woolly hair are making their mark on the NHL leader boards so far. As for Nashville, their success rides on their goalie Pekka Rinne. But beyond Weber and Neal, I don't think they have enough depth to survive another series with a team that desperately wants to win.

Prediction: Sharks in 6



Eastern Conference


New York Islanders v. Tampa Bay
This is going to be a really interesting series with these two teams. Even though I was leaning towards an upset from the Panthers, the now veteran Islanders will have to continue their good luck with the Lightning team that's the defending Conference champs. I expect Ben Bishop to earn more respect with his recent Vezina trophy nomination. Also, the 'Bolts young star Drouin has to earn his playing time and prove to the owners that he belongs on the ice at the major league level. Tavares needs this win big if he is going to earn elite superstar status that was once expected of him.

Prediction: Lightning in 6

Washington v. Pittsburgh
The mainstream media have already picked sides and promote their agendas to get further attention to this playoff series. It's at least prevalent to me in both US and Canadian broadcasts. But there's also an underpinning of regret that this series isn't for the Stanley Cup because of the unpopular changes proposed to the playoff seeding years ago suggesting that the Conference finals could be wiped out. They just had to get around the fact that Ovechkin and Crosby compete in the same division/conference. I believe with time to heal on the first round and time to re-align the linemates for this series, the Penguins can run all over the Capitals. Look for Fleury to return in net at some point during the series.

Prediction: Penguins in 7

2015 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 3

Well, at this point, my bracket is busted. I was counting on the Montreal Canadians to go to the Cup finals and finally silence the Canuckleheads who want to see the Stanley Cup be awarded to a Canadian team. It seems as if the NHL has gone unpredictable, well, at least for blog series like this one! Not sure if this is going to have a ripple effect on my credibility on future matters, but as far as predicting this year, it's not going according to [my] the script.

Could this be another year of an New York/LA-ish series were both coastal US cities will watch and reach the two biggest hockey markets? Is this the plan of the NHL to grow hockey in the United States for their NBC contract?

Put your thoughts below if your playoff bracket is busted all to heck or did you expect this conference finals round? Is this good for hockey or will the Canadians complain once again that they are also left out of rooting interest since 2011.


Western Conference


Anaheim v. Chicago

This series could go either way. It's as if the irresistible force (Ducks) are meeting up with the immovable object (BlackHawks). If you look at the league playoffs individual player standings, it's mostly all Ducks and Hawks players. I expect to see the Ducks wear down the Hawks with their defensive style attack. Perry/Getzlaf is still going strong.
Prediction: Ducks in 6



Eastern Conference


New York Rangers v. Tampa Bay

In a rematch of last year's Martin/Ryan trade drama, the Rangers aren't going to have to try as hard this year to keep the Lightning off the scoreboard. The Rangers have a playoff record for most consecutive 1 goal game wins. But if you ride the Lightning while the reverse sweep of the Montreal series, they find a way to win.
Prediction: Rangers in 6

2015 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 2

So, already, my bracket is busted considering I thought that this was going to be St. Louis' year. I don't know what the Blues have to do with their roster to get over the hump and finally be in Cup contention. I had them going to the finals. Perhaps, they need to find an elite goaltender.

And for my hometown Penguins, it's quite an additional frustration to a team that had high expectations given that they have some of the best talent in the NHL. There is no excuses, but the consensus was that the injuries and lack of depth at the wing positions really hurt them.

So let's look at who's left in the NHL in their quest for hockey's greatest prize.

Western Conference


Anaheim v. Calgary

Calgary is an amazing Cinderella story - in Canada. I don't think anyone else quite cares about the Flames who've been flaming out for the past 7 years. But with the right match up, they can sure surprise people. "Johnny Hockey" Gaudreau needs to step up and grow to the next level of development. Anaheim Ducks are on a tear and looking like they are the biggest team in the West. They've swept the Jets. Now look for them to do the same to the Flames. But they could drop a game if the Flames get lucky. Look for the Getzlaf/Perry tandem to score goals.
Prediction: Ducks in 6


Chicago v. Minnesota

Chicago's veterans have to be getting tired eventually, right? The amount of games they play in one year is phenomenal. But it took a goalie controversy to find them back on track. Who goes for the second series? Crawford may have to be reaching his limits. But the Wild's Devan Dubnyk is the man their team has confidence in. They'll go as far in the tourney as he'll take them. But they also have a fantastic powerplay scoring at near 30%.

Prediction: Blackhawks in 5


Eastern Conference


Montreal v. Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is the team that just doesn't say "die". They are the plucky team in the East conference that are fighting as underdogs to move on to round 2. Look for Tyler Johnson to take over the scoring for the bigger stars that seem to be slumping. Everyone is asking why Stamkos isn't scoring and shut out points wise. Perhaps the speculation would lean towards an injury? Montreal is looking really strong and got away with a few controversial moments. I was really appalled at the Subban ax chop that resulted in a game misconduct. Look for Price to be right again.
Prediction: Habs in 7


NY Rangers v. Washington

The Rangers are quietly struggling as the top NHL team from the regular season. Scoring is down or seemingly at a premium. Rick Nash has 1 assist coming out of the Pens series. Ovechkin for the Capitals is really soaring and enjoying a resurgence in his playoff career. Look for him to put a few more in past King Henrik. But eventually, I think the Rangers should wake up and expose the inexperience of the Capitals' goaltenders.
Prediction: Rangers in 6

Why Is Darnell Nurse Still In the OHL?

Courtsey: Erie Times News

Darnell Nurse is a strong prospect for the Edmonton Oilers and currently plays defense in the OHL for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. I recently had an opportunity to take in a critical playoff game between them and the Erie Otters. If you talked to some experts and scouts, they'd probably tell you that Nurse had a few years to develop into the kind of player that they need. I've even heard a few hockey podcasts that suggest the Oilers should've called up Nurse for critical NHL experience and help them on the blueline. But the Greyhounds have also got the #1 offense in the league and I can understand if he either chose not to get called up to the majors or felt that he had a chance to do something special with his junior team. But it wasn't until a little bid later that I got clear evidence of just why Darnell Nurse isn't in the NHL.

While he was a dominant player out on the ice and a very vocal leader, Darnell Nurse seemed to have control of his emotions. His team was ahead early in the 3rd period with a 4-3 lead. Things had become really temperamental and many players were taking big hits. One Otters player had taken matters into his own hands and found an opportunity to submarine a Soo player in such a unique (and probably embarrassing) way that the Greyhounds teammate had been flipped into the air and rolled onto the ice a-la a pro wrestling maneuver "the back body drop".

It came upon team captain Darnell Nurse to render his own brand of justice. While the Otters player had been warned by the officials and other Soo teammates, Nurse bolted from his blueliner position and cross-checked the unsuspecting Otter player. It was clearly done in clear view of the referees. Nurse was then given a 2 minute penalty to which the Otters capitalized making the score 4-4. It was a huge momentum shift in the game. The Otters had found a surge goal-scoring run and even found a 5-4 lead.

Now, I had been sitting right behind the Soo bench. It had become apparent that Nurse had made a critical error and gave game four to the Otters. They could have had the series tied up to take game 5 back in Ontario, but instead the Otters were given the eventual 3-1 series lead. There was one more choice moment in time where Nurse wasn't as effective as he should have been. During a TV timeout, Nurse had chosen that moment to rally his fellow players. I watched his face yell and tried to read his lips. He threw out a few expletives. However, I doubted that his teammates even heard him. He was barely audible and no one on the bench even looked in his direction during that tirade. I couldn't tell you exactly what was said, but even if the players could hear him over the noisy EIA, they chose not to pay attention.

The Otters YouTube channel had captured all of the highlights if you'd like to watch them.
Now, I am not sure if this game could be keyed in to have exposed a character flaw or a moment. Nurse could have used more discretion on his part, but I would only wonder if things like this would eventually lead to criticisms of him not being mature enough for the NHL level.

What do you think? Will Nurse be an impact player for the Oilers in the future?

2015 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions - Round 1

This season the NHL has shown that the league is creeping even closer to their competitive balance goals - which can be a podcast or vlog topic for another day. There were 3 open playoff berths still available on the last day (day 82) of the regular season. I was reading on twitter that there were a little "hater" grumblings that suggested that certain teams squeaked in for ratings and popularity. But regardless of how or when they got in, hopefully each team appreciates their chance for hockey's greatest prize. Lets take a look at round one and hope that the quality of hockey continues to ramp up.




Western Conference

Anaheim v.Winnipeg
Winnipeg makes their return to the NHL playoffs for the first time since leaving. And that was 20 years ago. The keys to this matchup is weather the Jets acquired enough players with playoff experience. Dustin "Buff" and Andrew Ladd are the Jets with the most achievements, but eyes will also be on Myers and Stafford to see if their acquisitions were worth it. Anaheim, despite their goaltending lack of depth, have made it to the top spot on the Western conference. Look for Kestler, Perry, and Getzlaf to have the deeper pool of playoff experience.
Prediction: Ducks in 6

St. Louis v. Minnesota
Minnesota's struggles throughout the middle of the season may have made them a better team now. They went on a really incredible run with the trade deadline acquisition of Devan Dubnyk. But this might be the year that St. Louis gets it together and makes a deep run through the west. They are the gateway after all! Look for Tarasenko to be the big hero and supporting with Oshie.
Prediction: Blues in 5

Vancouver v. Calgary
Calgary Flames have been this anomalous team that went from being one of the worst (statistically) to one of the more respectable and competitive teams in playoff contention. They were a quiet team, but notably they have "Johnny Hockey" Gaudreau to continue on his young career. Vancouver's window from their Finals success is quickly closing as the roster is turning. Ryan Miller may not be strong enough to carry them past the first round having been injured most of the season.
Prediction: Flames in 6

Nashville vs Chicago
The Predators have the worst luck in the history of the NHL to always get ousted by stronger teams in the first round. It took them the realization to move on and find a more balanced scoring attack with an offensive minded coach. Laviolette has his name on the Cup and will know how to take the Predators over the hump. Chicago is just a juggernaut encased in a powerhouse wrapped in a barrage. But this might be the year that the core players will start to show some serious wear and tear having played so many more games than the rest of the league.
Prediction: Predators in7

Eastern Conference

Montreal v. Ottawa
The Canadians have the most to prove to their fans and the biggest disappointment to their fans if they fail. Carey Price is playing like he wants to be the first Hart and Vezina trophy winner in the same year since Jose Theodore in 02. There could be a lot of hardware handed out to other players at the end of the season. But Ottawa is the fighting chippy never say die teams that could surprise people.
Prediction: Habs in 5

Detroit v. Tampa Bay
The story here is having one of the most revered players in Detroit's recent history as the GM for the opposing team. Has Stevey Y's Tampa Bay team developed into a deep playoff contender? Ben Bishop is a giant among men in goal and may stand tall for the entire series. But as you know that the Red Wings have been built to be in the playoffs for 24 straight years.
Prediction: Bolts in 6

NY Islanders v. Washington
The Islanders are celebrating their last year on the Island with a playoff appearance that marks the first payoff for the rebuilding years. Captain John Tavares has a great crew built around him and they've played with each other and developed next to one another in the minors. Look for Isles goalie Halak to be motivated for revenge against his former teammates. The Capitals have Ovechkin and his scoring skills to carry them through the next round. They've finally figured out the balance between forwards and defensemen on their roster. Orpik and Niskanen were great pick-ups in Free Agency. And Joel Ward will somehow be a game hero once more during the playoffs.
Prediction: Capitals in 5

Pittsburgh v. NY Rangers
The New York Rangers are this year's Presidents trophy winners and carry with them that curse. Could they be too overconfident? Crosby and Malkin know how to get to the promised land but have been playing hurt the past few years. They can't get any scoring consistency or linemates. It took them several tries to get into the post season. But this year, they might go out ready to heal up for a better run in next season. Every Pens fan I talk to have no hope for them.
Prediction: Rangers in 4

Playoff Beards

The latest Confessions of a Hockey Fanatic video is up and available for viewing.

This topic today is all about playoff beards and how popular they've become. It's been a standing tradition that the NHL hockey players disregarded some of their hygiene routines during the playoffs so that they can turn their attention to their job. But hockey fans are a different breed all together. They often pick up on the same things that their favorite players do and call it solidarity.The hockey playoff beard is such an overwhelming mainstream phenomenon that hockey teams often organize it into charity causes.

What would you rate my hockey playoff beard in the video? Do you like it? Am I more "distinguished" now?

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 4

The two most unlikely of competitors in this year's Stanley Cup has brought us an intriguing pairing of two coastal cities and two of the largest media markets in the United States. Could this be a platform to which the NHL gains more mainstream popularity? It helps that the two largest markets will be involved, but only 1 team has been to the finals recently. The last time the L.A. Kings were in the finals it was 1993. Wayne Gretzky, Luc Robitaille and Barry Melrose were bringing Los Angeles it's first taste of winning hockey. But after the Kings were thumped out by the Canadians, it took a patient team to rebuild. Now that hockey is good again in the Southern California area, what direction will the NHL take next season?


Los Angeles v. New Jersey

The two most unlikely of competitors in this year's Stanley Cup. One team is on the rise and one might be in it's twilight looking for a reshuffling underneath the leagues' salary cap. The Kings were lucky to have made the playoffs as the 8th seed. But from there, they rode a hot goaltender Jonathan Quick to a historic record eliminating the 1st 2nd and 3rd ranked teams in 1 playoff season. But as I look over Los Angeles' roster, they've gathered a lot of players who have failed in the final rounds. Jeff Carter and Mike Richards were reunited as a pair of front line forwards, but they know the feeling of choking when it counts. The New Jersey Devils have been recent winners in 2003 against the Ducks. Marty Brodeur may consider this his final run in a career. Of course, the Devils team has had a few players stick around from their 2003 team that remembers how to win a Stanley Cup series. Starting with Patrick Elias as the leader of this current Devils squad.

I'm going out on a limb here. It's the irresistible force (Kings) versus the immovable object (Devils).

Prediction: Los Angeles in 6

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 3

It's a bi-costal championship round as the Conference championship will determine just who will be playing for the Stanley Cup. My interest in watching all the games have been waining, but I'm still looking at the headlines and highlights on various sources to keep up with what's going on. I'd never expected to see these four teams in the Conference finals, but maybe it's just symptomatic of a power shift among the elite teams. The NHL must be loving this that they are in the biggest US markets. Could this turn over to ratings or an increased interest?



Western Conference

Phoenix v. Los Angeles

Could this be the Coyote's last stand as a franchise? I didn't expect to see the Coyotes this far into it, but I can understand it. Mike Smith has been another example of a hot goalie putting his team on his back. But give Coach Tippet a chance as well. He's been producing winning teams since the Dallas Stars were continual contenders. But LA has a goalie of their own. Look for Jon Quick to shut down the slightly inferior Phoenix lineup and Jeff Carter and Mike Richards to produce like they did for the Flyers.

Prediction: Los Angeles in 5


Eastern Conference

New Jersey v. N.Y. Rangers

It's two of the three teams in the largest media market in North America. The best thing that has come out of the Eastern Conference is how strong the Atlantic Division teams are. Two division rivals New Jersey and the NY Rangers have had quite the violent recent history. Coach "Torts" is still driving the press nuts. This may be Brodeur's last run in the playoffs as he might decide to go out on top with a Finals appearance. Since the Devils are a team in transition, the window of opportunity to win Kovalchuck's contract finally paying off? I'm hearing rumors that the golf courses miss Ilja around this time of year. Either way, the Devils do things their way and are just happy with it.

Prediction: NY Rangers in 7

Could we see a Los Angeles vs New York final for the Stanley Cup? I am certainly going to try to watch the finals for sure.

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 1

It's time for the NHL's second season, where those who survived now fight it out to play more hockey. It's a real "twilight zone" type of scenario with several teams sitting with home ice advantage, but their opponents have better point totals. Florida and Phoenix have shocked the hockey elitists by making it this far. Can they go farther? Only they can answer that.

Here's my annual tradition of delivering my encapsulated features of this years playoff matchups.

Western Conference

Vancouver v. Los Angeles

Vancouver is going into the playoffs once again saddled with the pressures of being the sole hope of ever bringing back the Stanley Cup to Canadian soil as well as the "curse" of the Presidents Trophy. If things get shaky with Luongo again, they have Cory Schneider to fall back on. Los Angeles was looking good for a while, but wound up drawing the just short of being eliminated from playoff contention. Look for Richards and Carter to make LA competitive, but in the end, it's Vancouver with the experience.

Prediction: Vancouver in 6

St. Louis vs San Jose


Prediction: San Jose in 6

Chicago vs. Phoenix
You wouldn't believe me if I told you that the Phoenix Coyotes have the division championship as the home ice advantage over the Chicago BlackHawks. Goaltender Mike Smith is really doing well this year and could possibly earn himself an MVP nomination. Look for him to steal a few games. Chicago's powerplay hasn't been all that great and if captain Toews isn't 100%, the Hawks are in trouble. It shouldn't be an upset, but maybe the Coyotes have something to prove.
Prediction: Phoenix in 5

Detroit vs Nashville

It seems every year, the way to the second round always runs through rival Detroit for the Predators. But before this looks like deja vu all over again for the Preds, this year they have the home ice advantage. The Wings scored a whole new home winning streak, so, it's best for the Preds to use their own home ice (aka "Smashville") to good use. Detroit is always a solid playoff team but due to their inconsistent goaltending woes... it just might be their weak link. Look for them to take the early exit this year.
Prediction: Nashville in 7

Eastern Conference

Ottawa v. N.Y. Rangers

This match-up is a possible short one with most experts who won't deny that the Ottawa Senators are overachievers. They were expected to rebuild and contend for a lottery draft pick, but instead, they perform admirably and earn a playoff berth. Look for Tortorella to stay silent this round and wait for the next round to be more vocal. Gaborik and Richards should lead the playoff scoring race once this series is done.

Prediction: NY Rangers in 4

Boston v. Washington

Washington Capitals were on the verge of not making the playoffs and the chaotic situation with the coaching staff may still come into play. Look for Ovechkin to get his goals, but Boston knows how to out muscle their opponents. Boston is the defending world champions and they know how to play like they are. Look for Tim Thomas to hold the Capitals under control.
Prediction: Boston in 5

Florida v. New Jersey

Another one of those head scratching mysteries where the perennial doormat of the NHL is suddenly a divisional champ and facing a tougher reputable team. I don't know if Brodeur has enough left in the tank, but I've certainly been wrong about him before. Look for Kovalchuk and company to keep up with the high scoring. Florida's quick turn around is all due to their GM who built the Chicago cup team two years ago. They'll be back next year. Let this playoff experience be exactly that - experience.
Prediction: New Jersey in 5

Pittsburgh v. Philadelphia

The Battle of Pennsylvania rages on once more through the playoffs as the most amazing hockey rivalry writes another chapter into their history. Crosby and Malkin are set to prove their haters wrong once again. Philadelphia is a revamped team that may have all their ducks in a row - with a few more familiar faces to Pittsburgh fans. Look for Brayden Shenn to stand out, but when the Flyers become their own worst enemy and start piling on the penalty minutes, look for Pittsburgh's power play to pick them apart.
Prediction: Pittsburgh in 6

2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Final Round

So, it comes to this... the team that won the Presidents' Trophy, the Vancouver Canucks versus the stigmatic Boston Bruins who were able to figure out a balanced roster with the trades at the deadline.



Vancouver v. Boston

Boston is going to sit-back on this one and play defense around the stunning and attention grabbing style of goalie Tim Thomas. He has the ablitiy to steal a game or two. Look for the Canucks to counter with their own goalie, Roberto Luongo. But at least Tim Thomas doesn't have a threat to be pulled in favor of a back-up like Luongo does. Young Cory Schneider has put himself on the pundits radar by filling in for a weakened and exposed Luongo. I think Boston is overall the better balanced team having acquired a solid centermen corps, talented wingers, tough tree-like defensemen, and a goalie that hustles everywhere!

But, of course, the threat of the President's Trophy curse still looms over it's current recipient.

Prediction: Vancouver in 6

2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 3

The playoffs have gotten really interesting. The "sexy pick", the underdog, the usual suspects, the front runners, and the rest of the remaining ex-champions are all eliminated. This leaves 2 teams with a history of choking (or under achieving, if you so feel inclined to call it that instead) with another team from the south and Boston.

I went 50% correct on my predictions because I completely botched the Eastern Conference. I thought for sure Washington and Philadelphia would figure something out. But it only leaves more questions for struggling franchises that have premier teams. What happened to the Capitals? They didn't even put up a fight.

It's not what might make a Conference finals match-up get media traction in the States, but it's still worth examining.


Western Conference

Vancouver v. San Jose
The worst scenario for both teams came to pass and presented the result as 2 teams enter the conference finals and 1 team must leave. Both teams have been burdened with the underachieving stigma, now one of them is guaranteed to miss the Stanley Cup finals once again. Ryan Kesler is one of the top reasons why the Canucks have made it this far. I've heard critics ponder why the Canucks stopped scoring. San Jose has never had that problem. Look for Antti Niemi, who beat the Canucks last year, to figure into some success for San Jose.
Prediction: Vancouver in 5




Eastern Conference

Boston v. Tampa Bay
Boston, I believe, is the strongest team that got out of the trading deadline. They found some improvements to the Center depth vulnerability. The other key ingredient was the resurgent play of goalie Tim Thomas. The big scoring forwards of St. Louis, Lecavalier, and Stamkos are really clicking on all cylinders. The Bruins defence can catch Lightning in a bottle.
Prediction: Boston in 7

2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 2

I was hoping I was wrong with some of my first round predictions, but it turns out that I know my hockey a little too well. I chose 6 winners out of the eventual 8. Why can't I do that when it's for "bracket pools?" It looks like the teams that most know how to grind it out (as well as stay healthy) by utilizing their grit can survive the post-season. We were treated by many more OT games, so the question for this round is will there be more nail-biting finishes?

The defending Stanley Cup champions have been knocked out in the first round. Chicago gave Vancouver a lot to think about when the season finally ends.




Western Conference

Vancouver v. Nashville
The Canucks now have that seed of doubt planted in their minds about the possibility of coming up short again in the playoffs. The pressure is mounting. Nashville has never advanced to this second round in the playoffs. Look for Luongo and company to pull away in this one again. The Sedins should play like Hart Trophy candidates.
Prediction: Vancouver in 6

San Jose vs Detroit
The Sharks have beaten the Red Wings before in the playoffs, but this is a whole new group of players. Detroit is resilient and can still get the job done, despite the advantage of dispirited Phoenix and their fans. San Jose needs to shake the doubt from the national media about their past playoff outcomes. Is this the year? It's hard to predict.

Prediction: San Jose in 6


Eastern Conference

Washington v. Tampa Bay
Washington can't rest easy knowing they have a Southeastern rival in the next round. If Crosby and company won't be playing, then this won't get the marquee attention that the NHL has rested their aspirations on. Again, the difference maker here is the experience in goal. Look for Roloson vs. the rotating staff of the Capitals.
Prediction: Washington in 6

Philadelphia v. Boston
Both teams really beat players up to win hockey games. This is going to be a coin flip to see who comes out. Last year, it was a grueling finish that sent a collapsing Bruins team home and the Flyers in the Finals. Look for the Flyer forwards to be faster than the Bruins defense can withstand.
Prediction: Philadelphia in 5

Neal's Damatic Goal Becomes Instant Promo

If you're not loving hockey, then you haven't seen this year's playoffs. The stakes are higher and the civic pride is at an all time high. I was woried about my hometown team going into these playoffs missing both elite players while mixing and matching lines while others are targeted for suspension.

Enter: James Neal.Yea, it's his first goal as a Pittsburgh Penguin since the trade deadline that brought him over.

It's moments like this that make the writers and bloggers glad that the drama is ramped up for this time of year. It's what sells. It's what gets people watching and it gets us all talking about it.

This video content was courtesy of my friends and contacts over at NBC/Versus.

You can read more local coverage at the Pittsburgh Tribune Review

2011 NHL Playoffs Predictions: Round 1

If your favorite team made it this far, then congratulations. So, continuing on with the traditional playoff predictions, I hope I am wrong with some of them. This is the first year that all three California teams have made it to the post-season. And the Vancouver Canucks are the only hope that Canada has to bring the cup back to Canada. But Every year that Canada hosts a Winter Olympics, that team has won the Stanley Cup. Interesting stat, eh?




Western Conference

Vancouver v. Chicago
The Canucks fans have been patiently waiting to get some playoff success. But now they bear the curse of the President's trophy. But the other end, the defending Champs had to back-end themselves into the playoffs by depending on someone else to lose. It's a tough call. Look for Luongo to possibly drag this one out to 7, but look for the Canucks to choke - like they do every year.


Prediction: Chicago in 7

San Jose vs Los Angeles

In the first battle of California matchup to be featured in the playoffs, this is going to be a good one as well. San Jose is known for falling flat in the playoffs every year. Look for the Finish combo of Niemi and Niittymaki to remember their previous playoff success with other teams. The true test of LA's resurgence will be how well their young core of players can perform under the pressures of the post-season. I like Wayne Simmons and Dustin Brown to stand out for the Kings.
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Prediction: San Jose in 6

Detroit vs. Phoenix
This is a repeat of last year's match-up. But the Coyotes are looking better than last year's group. Dave Tippet can get them motivated and ready for a Wings team that is still old and spent a lot of time on the DL. With no depth in goal, the Wings may not make it to round 2 this time. Look for Doan to be a leader. But how many people will show up in the desert?

Prediction: Phoenix in 5

Anaheim vs Nashville
Quietly, the Ducks brought themselves into playoff contention with what could be the swan song for Koivu and Selanne. Look for Fisher to figure in the Nashville offense. I think it's their year to get past round 1.

Prediction: Nashville in 7

Eastern Conference

Washington v. N.Y. Rangers
Another opening round match-up repeat as the Capitals surge all the way up to the number 1 spot despite struggling all through the season. The Rangers barely made it and despite all their changes before the trade deadline, they underachieved. Look for Ovechkin to run up the score.

Prediction: Washington in 6

Philadelphia v. Buffalo
The Flyers have no goalie, but Buffalo does. Ryan Miller checks into high gear in the real intense games just like he did in the Olympics. I also like the backup Enroth. But the young players like Vanek and Myers may need to come back next year after this first playoff experience. Look for Mike Richards and Jeff Carter with Versteeg mentioned often in the boxscore.

Prediction: Philadelphia in 5

Montreal v. Boston
Can this rivalry this year get any bigger? 2 of the Original 6 has made the drama-meter break every conceivable record this season. Look for Chara to bust some heads and roll over Montreal. I don't know if the entire Quebec province is going to call the cops on this one.

Prediction: Boston in 4

Pittsburgh v. Tampa Bay

If Sid Crosby doesn't play, then the Penguins are done in 4. But if the Penguins can somehow see that they are going to have to operate for 60 minutes a game, they can maybe pull this off. Look for St. Louis and company to keep the scoring up on the Pens. Dwayne Roloson will play inspired as it's his likely last season.
Prediction: Tampa Bay in 7

Stanley Cup costs 20 Cents In Chicago

So, after a near 50 year old drought, the Stanley Cup has come back to the Windy City. Blackhawks fans didn't get to see their home team lift up the cup on their own home ice, but it was the orange outraged and dissapointed fans forced to watch the end to the NHL season like that.

Game 6 was a battle of survival as both teams traded goals up until the very last 2 minutes. The Flyers, who became the epitome of their local folk hero Rocky Balboa and refused to go down for the count, made it to OT on a redirect goal by the often villainized Scott Hartnall. And Speaking of villains, I bet it was quite the underscored note that it was Hossa in the screen to watch the game tying goal. Oh, no, here we go again with the Hossa curse.

There was no long marathon of overtime in this game. It would have certainly made everything even more dramatic had the wait for the true sudden death, but it only needed an extra frame and a Sharp-angled shot (pun intended) to zip by a inexperienced journeyman Mike Leighton. I have already read around the internet that the shot by "20 cent" Pat Kane was similar to the goal that Crosby scored in the gold medal Olympic game. Does this mean that we will see pros and young players practicing that shot in the low wing area?

The NBC broadcast also let air a emotional stirring and controversial scene when both Dan Patrick and Mike Milbury consoled a weeping Jeremy Roenick who explained that he was glad for the Hawks, but also sad that he will never get to feel their joy. It must have been surreal for Roenick to watch it all unfold as he worked for both teams.

[Via: Rogers Sportsnet]

2010 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions: Round 4

I seriously hope that none of the COHF readers have taken my predictions to Vegas. I guess I am over the heartbreak of the previous hometown team, but it leaves me with a Stanley Cup final that has to be weighted carefully considering my bias for these two teams remaining. Once again, the NHL is in June and it doesn't look a thing like any kind of hockey weather out there.

Stanley Cup Finals

Philadelphia v. Chicago

The Flyers and their fans should feel fortunate that they even get to be here. Knowing that all of this has resulted in a "coin-toss" scenario where they barely made the playoffs. If you look at the Flyers, they were built for the sole purpose of surviving with muscle in the playoffs instead of the open-ice scoring. Look for Mike Richards and Jeff Carter to get down low and challenge Chicago with their low-angled shots. On the other hand, Chicago has a stifling defense with Sopel, Boyton, and Campbell blocking shots. Chicago's speed on offense should be a part of a great match-up of speed. The young guns of Toews and "20 Cent" Kane have achieved their projected potential this soon and look to make the BlackHawks an elite team for years to come.

In the end, I have weighed my biases and have arrived at the conclusion that I am more emotionally settled to have Hossa finally raise the Cup than I would have any Flyer enscribe their names on the Cup.

Prediction: BlackHawks in 6

2010 NHL Playoff Predictions: Round 3

So, I was able to go 1-3 on my predictions last round. Never saw that one coming, but I didn't take into account that sometimes teams run into hot goaltenders and other teams just run out of gas. From a fan's perspective, here are 4 teams remaining that I have no rooting interest. The sound you hear now is the ratings plummeting.

Western Conference

San Jose v. Chicago

San Jose surprised me again with another series win when historically they bow out around this time. Perhaps all the courses' tee times were taken. Heatley and Thorton came through with at least a goal and assist when they were again getting criticized for being MIA in big games. Look for them to once again play a supporting role to red hot Joe Pavelski. The BlackHawks are still young and will probably be back here next season, but they have more experience and far wiser than the average fan might think. I would suggest that the BlackHawks coach, Joel Quenneville, will out-coach Sharks coach Todd McLellan. Will this be the year that Marian Hossa gets to lift the Stanley Cup? Many people have guessed wrong before.

Prediction: Sharks in 7

Eastern Conference

Montreal v. Philadelphia
In a series that features two bottom seeded teams, the Montreal Canadians are the last chance of having the Stanley Cup back in Canadian soil. The Canadians were the last Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup in 1992-93. Jaro Halak needs to stand on his head once again and hold the Flyers forwards without too many goals for them to have a chance at closing it out with ease. The Canadians need a break after two back-to-back series going 7 games. But the Flyers have had a 7 game series with the Bruins and are also tired. Look for Pronger to once again smash the small Montreal forwards along the boards while Carter, Gagne, and Richards speed skate their way to plenty of goals.

Prediction: Montreal in 6