Second Round Playoff Predictions!

   2nd round here we come! After a great first round that saw a bit of everything, we journey further down the road into the second round of the playoffs. Here are my predictions for the second round of the playoffs. We'll start out west.

1-Chicago BlackHawks

vs

7-Detroit RedWings

   The Wings are a storied and proud organization, and too good of a team to roll over and die. Even if they lose in 4 straight, expect them to come hard. They're a team with injuries up the ying-yang on defense, but they have veteran forwards who are playing at the top of their game. The RedWings always have a chance when Henrik Zetterberg, and Pavel Datsyuk are on top of their game. If those two, along with Cleary, Abdelkader, Franzen, and Filppula play well, with some great goal-tending from Jimmy Howard, the Wings may just have a chance. 

  The BlackHawks made pretty quick work of the Minnesota Wild, a tough team in their own right. They have so many weapons to use; Hossa, Toews, Kane, Sharp, Keith, Seabrook, need I go on? They definitely have the depth advantage over the Wings. The only category the Wings have an advantage is in the goal-tending, but with Chicago's defense, that shouldn't be a problem for them. 

Prediction: Both team's are tough, and in the playoffs anything can happen. But the Hawks are rested up, the Wings are coming off a tough series against the Ducks. I have to go BlackHawks in 6. 

5-Los Angeles Kings

vs

6-San Jose Sharks

   The Kings look like they have their 2012 SWAG back. But, the Sharks won't bow to them. The Kings have it all, good D, depth at forward, an all-start goaltender, and a will to win which makes for a good playoff team. They have a solid chance in this series, but it won't be easy for them. 

   Let's just say something here... the Sharks were the most dominant team in the first round. They made a good Canucks team look like children. The Sharks, like the Kings have it all; a solid top line, and depth at all positions. Logan Coture is emerging as a top player in both ends of the ice. This will likely be an entertaining series. If Antti Niemi can go save for save with Johnny Quick, the ice may just slant in the Sharks favor. Only time will tell. 

Prediction: These teams are so evenly matched that it's a tough one to call. I really think if Niemi can play as good if not better than Quick, the Sharks will have a really good chance. I would have to say that LA has the slight edge because they were here just a year ago. Tough choice, Kings in 7.

And now we'll go out east. 

1-Pittsburgh Penguins

vs

7-Ottawa Senators

   Me thinks the Penguins at a slice or two of "humble pie" in that first round series. It didn't seem there was any doubt they would win the series, but the Islanders gave everything they got. The Penguins looked good, they scored tons of goals, but they also gave up quite a few as well. Vokoun has taken over the goal-tending duties, and seems like he might lock it down. They'll need to jump on a pesky sens team quickly in order to play ahead, instead of playing behind, a bad strategy when playing the Sens. 

   The Pesky Sens have done it again. Spezza is practicing but they say he's far from returning. They'll need to play lock-down defense to try and shut down the offensive Juggernaut known as the Penguins. Their best players will need to be there best players, and Craig Anderson will have to stand on his head. 

Prediction: The Sens have been resilient this year. During the course of the regular season, they lost their best d-man, best forward, and starting goaltender but still managed to get into the playoffs and bully the Habs out of the first round. They've climbed a lot of mountains to get themselves into this position, but this mountain hasn't peaked yet. Pens in 6.

4-Boston Bruins
vs
6-New York Rangers
    Boston was given a big run for their money by the Toronto Maple Leafs, but they found a way to win. This is a very interesting series. Both teams have depth at every position, as well as all-star goaltenders. The Bruins are a bit grittier than the Rangers, but the Rangers can turn on the physical game as well. This one may come down to the Bruins top players outplaying the Rangers top players. If Krejci, Bergeron, Chara, Seguin, etc outplay the Rangers best players, they'll have a good chance.
    The Rangers got some good performances from their secondary players in the first round, and it's indisputable that they were the reason that they got into the second round. Rick Nash and Brad Richards were ghosts in the first round registering no goals and just 3 points between the two of them in the entire series. In order for the Rangers to match the depth of the Bruins those two will have to show up and play their A game. 

Prediction: At the beginning of all this, I picked the Rangers to play the Pens in the East Final. I still hold that prediction. I don't think Brad Richards and Rick Nash will be as useless as they were in the first round. Both team's are coming off two hard fought 7 game series a piece. I give the edge on D to the Rangers, and a slight (very very slight) goal-tending edge to them as well. Rangers top guys vs Bruins top guys, whoever plays better may just take the series. Rangers in 7.

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PLAYOFFS!! PLAYOFFS!!

   It's once again time for the NHL Playoffs! There are some real power house teams this year, but the lower seeds aren't too shabby either. Here is my playoff predictions! I will do every round, leading up to and including the Stanley Cup! Let's start out East!

FIRST ROUND
1-Pittsburgh Penguins
vs.
8-New York Islanders
Pens win if: They win if they are firing on all cylinders. Since they have been doing that all year, I don't see why they would stop in the playoffs. If Crosby is back healthy for a playoff run, this team will be unstoppable on their way to the championship.
Islanders win if: They win if they win if they can shut down Pittsburgh's top players, but there are so many of them that I just don't see that happening. JT and the boys won't roll over quietly, and I wouldn't be surprised to see Nabokov steal a game or two.
Prediction: The Islanders have improved, but the Pens are unstoppable this year, and have too many weapons. Penguins in 5.


2-Montreal Canadiens
vs.
7-Ottawa Senators
Habs win if: They win if they can beat Craig Anderson, and keep up the youthful jump that has sprung them all year. They're power-play will have to continue to work hard, and they've need to work for goals against the pesky sens.
Sens win if: They win if they can play that stingy style of hockey they've played all year. This is a good match-up for them. They may not have the fire power to match the Habs, but they have the grit to push them around a bit. Karlsson's return changed any series that the Sens might have played.
Prediction: It will be a close one. The Habs have more fire power up front, but the sens play that pesky, gritty style of playoff hockey. It will be close, but I'll have to go Canadiens in 7.


3-Washington Capitals
vs.
6-New York Rangers
Caps win if: They win if Ovi is hot. It would be hard to argue that there has been a better player in the game over the past month and a half than Alex Ovechkin. Washington found their form and they ran with it. They're a team firing on all cylinders, with a bonafide superstar on their side. If they can match up with the fire power the Rangers have, I like their chances. Also, Holtby needs to outgoaltend King Lundquist or it could be goodnight for the Caps.
Rangers win if: They win if they can keep on their grind, and get back to the New York Ranger hockey that we saw last year. Aside from Matt Hendrichs, the Caps don't really have a lot of size up front. From a grit stand point. If they can play hard, block shots, and punish the caps they'll have a real shot of winning this one.
Prediction: Another hard one to call. They are two of the hottest teams in the NHL right now. The Rangers have a big more depth up front, and a bit more gritiness to their lineup. If their d-men can play like they did last year, and if Lundquist in on his game, it would be tough for the Caps to win this one. With that being said, however, Ovi could probably score on a solid brick wall at this point. A close one to call, but I'm going to go Rangers in 6.


4-Boston Bruins
vs.
5-Toronto Maple Leafs
Bruins win if: They win if they can out-muscle the Leafs. These are two of the toughest teams in the NHL, and both sides have players who can be difference makers at any time. If they B's can play that big bad Bruins style of hockey, and shut down Kessel, Kadri, Lupul, and Bozak, they'll have a good chance.
Leafs win if: *sigh* no more Leaf jokes allowed. Because they have a hell of a year! They improved a lot this season, and that isn't embodied by anyone else but Nazim Kadri. If they Leafs can match depth with the Bruins, as well as match (both metaphorical and literal) punches with the Bruins they'll have a shot. Getting good goal tending from Manitoba native James Reimer will help as well.
Prediction: As much as every Leaf fan would love to see a return to the glory days, I don't see it happening this year. These two teams play a very similar type of hockey. But the Bruins have been here before. Most of those players have a Stanley Cup ring on their finger. I don't see the Leafs matching depth with the  B's in this one. Bruins in 6.

SECOND ROUND
1-Pittsburgh Penguins
vs.
6-New York Rangers
Prediction: Both teams have great goal tenders, and lots of fire power. But I don't see anyone in the East beating the Pens this year. Pens in 6.

2-Montreal Canadiens
vs.
4-Boston Bruins
Prediction: Tough one to call. The Habs have gotten tougher this year, and I feel Boston will be worn down from what is likely to be a tough series against the Leafs, although the same could be said for the Habs with Ottawa. If it had to put money on it.... Bruins in 7.

EASTERN CONFERENCE FINAL
1-Pittsburgh Penguins
vs. 
4-Boston Bruins
Prediction: Almost a dream series of sorts. You have all-start goalies, great d-cores, and two teams that are deep at forward. As beautiful and cliche as this may sound, Jerome Iginla may be the difference maker in this one. What an ending that would be. Both teams are gritty, but play with skill when they have too. I'd expect it to be long and hard fought, but I have to give the edge to the Penguins. They're too good. Penguins in 6.
 
   Now let's move out to the wild wild west.
FIRST ROUND
1-Chicago BlackHawks
vs. 
8-Minnesota Wild
BlackHawks win if: They win if they continue to play like they did in the regular season. Possibly the most well rounded team in the league, with too many superstars to count. This season has been a Pittsburgh, Chicago super-final in the making.
Wild win if: They win if the Hockey Gods are feeling really generous. They'll need great goal tending from Backstrom, and a miracle.
Prediction: The Wild aren't about to roll over and die, but the BlackHawks are too good, too fast, and too dominant. Hawks in 5.


2-Anaheim Ducks
vs. 
7-Detroit RedWings
Ducks win if: Like the BlackHawks, they win if they continue to play like they did in the regular season. If the big guns like Perry, Getzlaf, and Selanne keep on top of their game and the secondary scoring keeps pouring in, the Wings will be in tough!
Wings win if: They win if Jimmy Howard absolutely stands on his head. There's not doubt the Wings are still a threat. 22 straight years of post-season hockey in the motor-city can attest to that. They lack the secondary scoring that the Ducks have in gallons. Zetterberg and Datsyuk can't carry the load themselves, they will need some help, and a lot of it. It will also be interesting to see how Detroit's shattered d-core deals with their first post-season without Nick Lidstrom.
Prediction: These two teams had some epic playoff battles years ago. Detroit was a much better team then, than now. I don't think it's wise to rule anyone out (flashback: LA last year) but I think the Ducks have too much depth, and too much scoring punch for Detroit's weak d-core to handle. Ducks in 5.


3-Vancouver Canucks
vs. 
6-San Jose Sharks
Canucks win if: They win if they can stop the offensive attack of the Sharks. The Nucks have a solid d-core, and two all-star goalies so it wouldn't surprise me to see them do just that. The Sedin's will have to be on, and they'll need to find some secondary scoring, which was something they lacked in this year.
Sharks win if: They win if they can shut down the Sedins, and get to Luongo early. With Schneider on the mend, Luongo will be expected to carry the load. The Canucks have struggled to find consistency aside from their top line, and the Sharks will need to pounce early to win this one. They have a solid attack with Thorton, Pavelski, Coture, and Marleau. Will Niemi and the d-core be up to the task? Only time will tell.
Prediction: Both teams are very good, and have very good offensive potential. I would have to give the edge to the Nucks based on their d-core and their goal tending which is superior to the Sharks. Nucks in 6.


4-St Louis Blues
vs.
5-Los Angeles Kings
Blues win if: They will win if they don't roll over and die like they did last season against these very same Kings. The Blues are a more matured team, and it wouldn't surprise me to see them make a deep playoff run. Where they lack in superstar talent, and offensive juggernautedness (not a word but it should be eh?) they make up for with solid defense, good goal tending, and a tenacity that you can't teach. They are rough, gritty, and ready to make a push into the playoffs.
Kings win if: They win if they find their form from last year. They were an unstoppable force, and have the exact same pieces in place to make another run identical to last season's. They have depth at forward, solid d, and a good goal tender in Johnny Quick. They need to find that form again this year, from top to bottom they'll need to be solid in order to beat the Blues.
Prediction: This is the series I am looking forward to most in the West. Both teams are very talented, and both teams possess a mean streak that will serve their purpose. I think the Kings will find their form again this year. They are riddled with playoff experience, and it will show. Tough one to call, but I will do so. Kings in 7.
SECOND ROUND
1-Chicago BlackHawks
vs.
5-Los Angeles Kings
Prediction: As much as I think the Kings will find their form again. They won't beat the BlackHawks. It will be a closer series than most will expect, but I think the Hawks will run with this one. Hawks in 6.

2-Anaheim Ducks
vs. 
3-Vancouver Canucks
Prediction: The Canucks just don't seem like the team that they were when they made their cup run in 2010. I think their series with the Sharks will be a long and challenging one that won't prepare them for the most likely well-rested Ducks. Where the Nucks lack, the Ducks flourish with secondary scoring. Ducks in 7.

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL
1-Chicago BlackHawks
vs.
2-Anaheim Ducks
Prediction: By far the two most dominant teams in the West this year. These two teams would battle it out for the right to meet the Eastern Conference champion. The Ducks have improved tremendously. Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf have found their form again. Their secondary players, and everyone else for that matter will need to play hard, and fight against the BlackHawks. But I don't think it will be enough to defeat the mighty Hawks. BlackHawks in 6.

STANLEY CUP FINAL
1-Chicago BlackHawks
vs
1-Pittsburgh Penguins
Prediction: I'm not usually one to take two #1 seeds to play each other in the finals, but this year these two teams really stood out above the rest. A Toews vs Crosby matchup would be one that hockey fans would drool over. Both teams possess the power to score 10 goals on a given night and give up 0. Both teams boast Norris Trophy like d-cores. Where the major advantage will go is in the goal tending department. To the Penguins. With that being said, both he and Cory Crawford have playoff experience. This would be a Stanley Cup final for the ages, two of the best teams assembled in the 2010's, both of which deserve to win the cup. It's an extremely tough series to call, and I wouldn't be surprised if it went all 7 games. I am going to go Pens in 7. If Crosby returns for the playoffs, and a healthy Sidney Crosby plays like he can, then with their other weapons, they'll take home the cup.

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Winnipeg Jets Year End Wrap Up.

   So, unfortunately the Jets ended without the playoffs for the second year in a row, but they definitely showed some improvement. Here are my grades for each player by position.

GOALTENDERS
Ondrej Pavelec: B+; I can't quite give Pavs an A on this season, although he was a work-horse. He was arguably the Jets best player all season, and was one of the main reasons as to why they almost made the playoffs. He did allow some weaker goals at times that weren't ideal (though is it ever ideal?). Pavelec is the future goalie of this franchise, played very well this year, and will improve for the future.
Al Montoya: B; Not much so say about Montoya as he only played 4 games, but he played well in those 4 games and picked up the only Jets shutout this year. My money is on him returning as Pavelec's backup for next season.

D-MEN
Zach Bogosian: A-; He has amazing potential, and this year he showed us that he has the potential to become a Norris Trophy candidate someday. Is a mean guy to play against, who can chip in on the offensive side of the puck. What's not to like?
Tobias Enstrom: B+; Unfortunately his season was cut short by injuries. But when Toby was playing, he was a difference makers, averaging almost a point per game at one point. He's vital to their power-play's success, a power-play that struggled this year. For the Jets to have success, they need this guy in the lineup.
Dustin Byfuglien: B; With big Buff you know what you're going to get. Huge offensive upside, but some defensive lapses. Despite those, he's till one of the Jets most skilled players.
Grant Clitsome: B; Exceeded my expectations. Chipped in with 4 goals and filled in nicely on an injury riddled blue line. He's one of the UFA's at the end of the year. He can play anywhere in the d-core whether it's as a seventh man, or on the top pair. He's a valuable guy to have.
Mark Stuart: B; You'll get what you expect with Mark Stuart. He's gritty, mean, tough, and chips in everywhere he can. If all the Jets had his compete, they'd be a better team.
Zach Redmond: B; It's a miracle that he is back in game shape. I think he exceeded most people's expectations this season, and outplayed some of the other d-men who will either be competing for spots next year, or will find themselves looking for a job.
Derek Meech: C+; A depth d-man on most team's is a valuable asset. It would be nice to see the hometown kid come back for another year, but with Jacob Trouba on the rise someone has to go.
Paul Postma: C; I think people expected more out of Paul Postma. If I were the Jets I would re-sign him. He's still young, but he needs to pick up his physical play. He's a big guy, but is getting out-muscled by smaller forwards. I'd give him one more year to prove he can be a mainstay in the NHL.
Ron Hainsey: C; He logs big minutes, blocks shots, and seems like a popular guy in the dressing room. But he makes too many mistakes, some that led to huge goals against. I wouldn't expect to see him back next year with the emergence of Redmond and Trouba.

FORWARDS
Andrew Ladd: A; He was everything for the Jets this year, by far their best player (possibly aside from Pavs).
Blake Wheeler: A-; Beat his goal total from last season in less games, and is arguable the Jets most skilled player up front. He, along with this line-mates have given the Jets a solid top line.
Bryan Little: B; Has great chemistry with Ladd, and Wheeler, was key on both the offensive and defensive side of the puck this year.
Evander Kane: B; Evander Kane is truly budding into a super star. He could easily be a 30 goal scorer for a lot of his career. Finding someone to play on the right side of the line with him and Jokinen with more skill would benefit him greatly.
Nik Antropov: B-; Antro may have just done enough to earn another year with the Jets. I feel the development of Scheifele will factor into that decision. For me it would be him or Kyle Wellwood, Antropov produced more this year, and played far more physical than Wellwood (did Welly throw any hits this season?). He's a veteran, and physical presence to a team that desperately needs that.
Eric Tangradi: B-; Tangradi provides a solid physical force up front, he's a good checking line winger, and showed that he has some moves on the offensive side as well.
Jim Slater: B-; A heart and soul guy who's season was cut short by an injury. He hits, fights, kills penalties, and wins face-offs like nobody's business, valuable player to any team.
Chris Thorburn: B-; Another heart and soul guy who's liked in the dressing room, and liked by the fans. Chips in offensively every now and then, but does most of his talking with his physical play.
Olli Jokinen: C+; Despite having his worst offensive year ever, he still provides a veteran presence. He would benefit from a winger to play with him and Kane. Jokinen is a vet, and he won't have another terrible year like this one.
James Wright: C+; Like Tangradi, he provides a good physical force, could have had 7 or 8 goals this season, just couldn't finish like he wanted too.
Anthony Peluso: C+; We got what we expected with Peluso, he's tough as nails, and seems to be a good enforcer. The only reason I gave him such a low grade is because his season was cut short by a hand injury.
Kyle Wellwood: C+; After a slow start, and a few trips to the press box, Wellwood picked up his play towards the end of the year. Whether it was enough to earn a contract renewal will be up to Kevin Chevaldayoff.
Alex Burmistrov: C; A dissapointing year for the young Russian, his contract is up at the end of the year, but I wouldn't expect him to get a phone call until Zach Bogosian is signed to a new contract. With the way he's played he hasn't earned himself a long term contract by any means.
Antti Miettinen: C-; Hasn't performed up to expectations. Found himself a healthy scratch an a lot of nights.
Mike Santorelli, Aaron Gagnon, and Patrice Cormier all had stints with the Jets this season, and contributed in their own ways. I expect them all to be at training camp next season.

OVERALL TEAM GRADE
B-: A B- is usually be a pretty good grade, but in the NHL, sometimes it's not enough to get you into the playoffs. I would say the team exceeded most people's expectations, and came very close to making the playoffs. It's definitely a sign of improvement.

Pending FA's I expect to see back next year:
Nik Antropov, Alex Burmistrov, Paul Postma, Blake Wheeler, Zach Redmond, Grant Clitsome, Zach Bogosian
Pending FA's I don't expect to see back next year:
Ron Hainsey, Antti Miettinen, Kyle Wellwood.

WINNERS AND LOSERS: TRADE DEADLINE

WINNERS AND LOSERS: TRADE DEADLINE!

    Here's my list of team's that really did well this trade deadline, and those who did... not so well.

Let's start with those who are neither, those who stayed put, if you will.
EAST
   - Montreal: A good team, they remain good despite no deadline deals.
   - Winnipeg: Picked up Santorelli for depth, didn't get any worse, didn't get any better.
   - Toronto: Couldn't get the goalie they wanted, but they're sitting pretty in the East at this point.
   - New Jersey: Will be a threat when Kovy returns.
   - NY Islanders: Still very much in the playoff hunt. Didn't do much. But they didn't get worse.
   - Philadelphia: Hopefully adding Steve Mason will light a fire under Bryz. For Flyers fans anyway.
   - Florida: I've stopped paying attention to this team at this point, aside from Jonny Huberdeau.
WEST
   - Chicago: Stayed the same, waiting on Hossa and Sharp. Still a power house.
   - Anaheim: Sitting pretty at 2nd in the West.
   - Vancouver: Added Roy, but couldn't move Luongo. It's getting to be kind of a laugh riot at this point.
   - San Jose: Added Scott Hannan. Not sure what that will do.
   - Lost Angeles: Added Regher for depth. Pretty much stayed put.
   - Edmonton: Added Smithson, like the Jets they added depth, but didn't improve much.
   - Nashville: Can't read this team. Gave away Martin Erat a guy who could help any team.
   - Phoenix: Lost Raffi Torres, but I really feel like they should be winners for trading him.
   - Colorado: Young team, didn't need to do much at the deadline.
 

And now let's take a look at the losers.
EAST
   - Buffalo: It was a fire sale in Sabretown. Pominville gone. Leopold gone. They've only got a few recognizable names left.
   - Carolina: For a team battling for the playoffs. They let a good depth winger who can score go for next to nothing. Is everyone just bowing to the Pens at this point?
WEST
   - Calgary: The only team that lost more than Buffalo. BRUTAL
   - Dallas: Jagr to the bruins, Roy's gone, Ryder's gone. They have no one left.
   - Detroit: Couldn't add any d-men. Lost out on all the d-men who were moved.


And now the winners.
EAST
   - NY Rangers: Lost Gaborik yes, but they added some grit with the likes of Ryan Clowe, and Derek Dorsett. They hope to find their gritty form from last season.
   - Boston: Lost out on Iggy. But landed Jagr. It'll give them a nice top line scoring punch.
   - Ottawa: Finally thinned out their crowded crease. While adding a good scorer in Cory Conacher.
   - Tampa Bay: Landed a solid goaltender in Ben Bishop. However, he is still unproven. Only time will tell how he works out.
   - Washington: Unlike the teams they're battling with (WPG & CAR) they were able to add some punch up front. If I'm betting on who's going to win the Southeast, my heart says Jets, my money says Caps.
   - Pittsburgh: Jarome Iginla, Douglas Murray, Jussi Jokinen, Brendan Morrow, need I say more?
WEST
   - Columbus: They take the silver medal in this one. Landing Gaborik is huge, adding Comeau will also add some good scoring depth up front. I'd be afraid of the Blue Jackets down the stretch.
   - Minnesota: Adding Pominville to a team that's been streaking for a while now is a dangerous mix, for other teams anyway. Only downside is they've lost a good goaltending prospect in Matt Hackett.
   - St. Louis: They have a top 4 that's arguable tops in the league. Still thin up front, but they did good things with their blue line.

The Playoff Picture: Who's the Favorite at this Point?

    The playoff spots in the NHL are still up for grabs thus far, with only 2 or 3 teams really showing that they are going to be in the playoffs. I will offer up my opinion as to who I think will make the playoffs, and with only 14ish (it varies per team) games left. Many spots are still up for grabs, but here is who I think will make the playoffs, and where they will finish.

EAST:
1-Pittsburgh Penguins: Currently holding the lead in the Eastern Conference, firing on all cylinders.
vs
8-New Jersey Devils: Without their leading scorer right now, the Devils may just hang in there to capture the 8th spot.
Prediction: Pens are too deep, too fast, and too good. Pens in 5.


2-Boston Bruins: The B's lost in a shootout tonight, but I still think they have what it takes to get the division lead and finish 2nd. It would help if they could get their hands on Jerome Iginla
vs
7-New York Rangers: Struggling with consistency right now, they will still make the playoffs and with their fire power they're never a team that should be counted out.
Prediction: Although the Rangers have some all-stars, they don't have the grit that they had last year. Bruins in 6.


3-Winnipeg Jets: I truthfully didn't pick my hometown Jets to make the playoffs this year, but they've won some big games in the last stretch (despite the god-awful pair against Washingtion) they rebounded by beating the Bolts, and hammering Carolina on the road. Only one team from the Southeast will make the playoffs this year, and the Jets have set themselves up well.
vs
6-Toronto Maple Leafs: This would be an unreal series. And the Leafs are rolling, they now have depth at forward with the emergence of Kadri, and have played well all year.
Prediction: Neither team is exactly popping with playoff experience. But I'd have to give the edge to the Jets, they have the advantage in net, and if they can shut down Kadri they can do it. Oh, and home ice advantage would help. It'll be close to call though. Jets in 7.


4-Montreal Canadiens: Although they took the division lead back from Boston tonight, I think the B's will come back strong down the stretch. Still an unreal bounce back year for the Canadiens.
vs
5-Ottawa Senators: Despite all the injuries this team still finds ways to win. Which is what ultimately gets them into the playoffs. If they can get Spezza, Cowen, and Anderson back they can do good things come playoff time.
Prediction: This one is tough to call. Both teams are finding ways to win this year, and both teams boast great goaltenders. Without Karlsson (and possibly Spezza) the Sens will be in tough. Canadiens in 6.



WEST:
1-Chicago Blackhawks: The Pens of the West, the only team I could see giving them a real run for their money is the Ducks.
vs
8-San Jose Sharks: Their deep at forward, but they don't want to play the Hawks in the first round. Wouldn't end well for them.
Prediction: The Sharks won't roll over and die, but they won't stand much of a chance. Blackhawks in 5.


2-Anaheim Ducks: They very well could come out of the West this year. Their secondary players have been great all year, and Perry and Getzlaf are looking like the players they were a few years ago.
vs
7-Detroit RedWings: They've won 4 in a row, and the consistency seems to be coming along. They seem to have the Ducks number this year, but their d-core is still inconsistent.
Prediction: Like I said before, the Wings have had the Ducks number as of late, but the Ducks are too good this year. Ducks in 7.


3-Vancouver Canucks: Fighting tooth and nail with the Wild for the division lead. They'll eventually overtake it. And sneak into the 3rd slot. Doesn't seem like Luongo is going anywhere so they'll have two great goaltenders come playoff time.
vs
6-St. Louis Blues: This one I could see going either way, especially if Kesler doesn't return to the Nucks lineup. The Blues have good d, gritty forwards, and a good goaltender in Halak.
Prediction: Tough one to call, the Blues are stingy, and could give them a run for their money. But I'd say the Nucks got this one. Canucks in 6.


4-Minnesota Wild: The Wild have been very good this year. Parise and Suter are looking like their well worth the money. I could see them making a long playoff run, especially if Backstrom can steal a game or two.
vs
5-LA Kings: Last year's Stanley Cup champs are seeming to find their form again. There's no telling what this team can do if they decide to play like they did last year.
Prediction: Another tough one to call, on the one hand, Minnesota looks like the stronger team, maybe not on paper but they've been consistent all year so far. LA is LA though, the 8 seed that ran the table last season. I can't make a judgment for sure, so I will take my best guess. Kings in 7.

STANLEY CUP FINAL PREDICTION:
    I have to go with Pittsburgh coming out of the East. They're the team to beat. With Sid and Malkin in their lineup this is a pretty unstoppable team.
    For the West, I gotta go with the powerhouse Chicago Blackhawks. They have the defense, and the forwards, it's just a matter of their goaltending holding up, which it has thus far.

March 21st Scores & Recaps

Washington-4 Winnipeg-0:
    The Jets didn't get much of an effort from anyone tonight, Ondrej Pavelec was the only reason the score wasn't 7-0. The Caps got a strong game from Captain Alex Ovechkin who tallied a goal and an assist. Marcus Johansson also had a big game for the caps picking up a goal and an assist. Holtby picked up the win for Washington, and Pavelec took the loss for Winnipeg. These two teams will meet again tomorrow night.
New Jersey-4 Carolina-1:
    The struggles continue for Carolina, as the Canes could only muster 18 shots on Marty Brodeur. Dan Ellis struggled in net for Carolina allowing 3 goals. The 4th came on an own goal by Eric Staal on a delayed penalty. Travis Zajac had 2 assists for the Devils.
Florida-3 NY Rangers-1:
   As much as I like seeing Tort's go crazy at his team's struggles. I don't see this team struggling for long with the talent they have. Brian Campbell, Scotty Upshall, and Tomas Kopecky scored for the Panthers, while Marian Gaborik countered for the Rangers. Jacob Markstrom picked up the win stopping 44 of 45 shots, while King Henrik stopped 21 of 23 in the loss.
Montreal-5 NY Islanders-2:
    The Canadiens continue to sit atop the Eastern conference, and there dominance was established again tonight. Tomas Plekanec had two assists for the Canadiens, who got goals from Michael Ryder, PK Subban (2), Brian Gionta, and Brendan Gallagher. Visnovsky and Tavares countered for the Islanders, and Matt Molson had two assists. Carey Price stopped 25 of 27 for the win, while Kevin Poulin allowed 5 goals on 29 shots.
Buffalo-5 Toronto-4 (SO):
    The Leafs blew a 3-1 lead and came back being down 4-3 scoring 6 minutes into the third. Nazim Kadri had a huge game with 2 goals and an assist, while Cody Hodgson and Tyler Ennis both had two assists for the Sabres. Tyler Bozak scored in the shootout for the Leafs, while  Drew Stafford and Steve Ott tallied for Buffalo. James Reimer stopped 32 of 36 in the loss while Ryan Miller picked up the win stopping 30 of 34.
Boston-2 Ottawa-1:
    The Sens held a short 1 goal lead against the mighty Bruins, but it wasn't meant to be. The B's got goals from Daniel Paille and Dennis Seidenberg, and Kaspers Daugavins scored for the Sens. Boston backup Anton Khudobin stopped 27 of 28 in the win while Robin Lehner stopped 27 of 29 in the loss.
Nashville-5 Calgary-3:
     Calgary's troubles continue. I'm wondering when Calgary will give up their "we're still a playoff team" attitude because it hasn't been apparent to me. Anyways they got thumped by the Preds tonight. Mike Fischer scored twice for the Preds, and the Flames got singles from Jerome Iginla, Blake Comeau, and Mark Giordano. Mikka Kiprusoff stopped only 18 of 23 shots in the loss, while Pekka Rinne stoped 19 of 22 in the win.
Vancouver-2 Phoenix-1:
    Chris Tanev and Jordan Schroeder (Go Moose Go) scored for the Nucks while all the assists came from former Moose players as well. Antoine Vermette scored for the Yotes. Corey Schneider picked up the win stopping 33 of 34, and Jason LaBarbera and Mike Smith combined to stop 26 of 28 shots with LaBarbera taking the loss.
Dallas-2 Los Angeles-0:
    Dallas did a nice job of staying in the playoff hunt blanking the Cup Champs 2-0. Jaromir Jagr, and Ray Whitney scored for Dallas with Jamie Benn, Alex Goligoski, and Louie Eriksson picked up the assists. Kari Lethonen stopped all 40 shots he saw for the shut out, while Johnny Quick stopped 19 of 21 in the loss.

3-STARS OF THE NIGHT:

1-Nazim Kadri: The young Leaf had 2 goals and an assist, but unfortunately for his team it was in a losing effort.
2-Kari Lethonen: Stopped 40 of 40 shots for the shut out.
3-Alex Ovechkin: Picked up a goal and an assist in a 4-0 win over the Jets.

Tuesday March 12th

Jets tame the tough Leafs with three 3rd period goals:
    The Winnipeg Jets took it to the Leafs last night, scoring 3 goals in the third period, to lift themselves to a 5-2 victory. The Jets had strong games from the entire lineup, with former Leafs Nik Antropov (1G 2A)
 and Kyle Wellwood (1G 1A) both having multiple point games. Dustin Byfuglien had 3 assists, Blake Wheeler had two goals, and Evander Kane added a single to lead the Jets to victory. Phil Kessel scored both of Toronto's goals. The Jets played a complete game, and did not shy away from a tough leafs team that has been able to intimidate most of their opponents this year with their rough & tumble style of play. The Jets didn't shy away. Chris Thorburn's scrap with Colton Orr throw a cheap shot towards the end. Orr had a smile on his face, but this only served to spark the Jets, who dominated the leafs the rest of the way. Needless to say, Orr's smile was gone pretty quickly. It was a strong performance from the Jets, who got a complete performance for the first time in a long time, from Ondrej Pavelec out. Grinders James Wright and Eric Tangradi also had strong games, with Wright getting some glorious chances, and Tangradi picking up an assist on Blake Wheeler's second of the night. Pavelec picked up the win with Manitoba's James Reimer taking the loss.
Other Scores:
Tampa Bay-3 Florida-2: Tampa Bay got goals from all their big guns, as they beat the lowly Panthers with Stamkos getting the winner in the third. St. Louis and Lecavalier also scored for Tampa, Versteeg and Kopecky countered for Florida.
Vancouver-2 Columbus-1: The struggling Canucks picked up a shootout win over the streaking Columbus Blue Jackets last night. Mason Raymond scored the winner in the shootout, and Roberto Luongo picked up the win, and despite another strong performance, Sergei Bobrovsky took the loss.
Pittsburgh-3 Boston-2: Widely considered a game to determine who was #1 in the East, Boston blew a 2 goal lead in the 3rd period as the Pens stormed back to win 3-2. Sutter scored twice for the Pens, and Kunitz added a single. Chara and Seguin countered for the Bruins. M-A Fleury got the win and Boston's backup Anton Kuhdobin took the loss.
St. Louis Doubled up on San Jose 4-2, Nashville blanked Dallas 4-0, Anaheim beat Minnesota 2-1, Edmonton shut out Colorado 4-0, and Phoenix took down the LA Kings 5-2 in an all Pacific division match-up.
TWITTER!! @burnsy004

Mid-Season Report! Power Ranking & Stars

So we're about half way through this shortened season in the NHL, and mostly everything has been as we expected it to be at the midway point. Here are my mid-season Power Rankings:

1-Chicago Blackhawks (21-2-3, 45pts, 1st in West): The Hawks have lost two in a row, but are still miles ahead of everyone else.

2-Anaheim Ducks (18-3-3, 39pts, 2nd in West): Getzlaf & Perry have been dynamite, and their supporting cast hasn't disappointed either. 3-Pittsburgh Penguins (18-8-0, 36pts, 2nd in East): Boast the leading scorer in Sidney Crosby, on a tear right now. 4-Montreal Canadiens (17-5-4, 38pts, 1st in East): Not quite at the Pens level yet, adding Ryder was a good deal for them. 5-Boston Bruins (16-3-3, 35pts, 4th in East): The big bad Bruins are living up to their name, getting great goaltending from Tukka Rask. 6-Toronto Maple Leafs (15-10-1, 31pts, 5th in East): Nazim Kadri is the real deal, and the Leafs are tough as nails this year. 7-Ottawa Senators (13-8-4, 30pts, 6th in East): Despite losing their two best players, and their starting goalie, the sens are hanging in there. 8-Los Angeles Kings (13-8-2, 28pts, 5th in West): The Kings have their Stanley Cup form back, look out if Doughty decides to heat up. 9-Detroit Red Wings (12-9-5. 29pts, 4th in West): Struggling to find total consistency, Wings slowly improving as the year goes on. 10-New Jersey Devils (12-9-5, 29pts, 7th in the East): They've slowed down a bit, but still have a team that can contend for the Stanley Cup, especially with a healthy starting goalie. 11-Carolina Hurricanes (14-9-1, 35pts, 3rd in East): The current Southeast division leaders are without their starting goalie, still playing well though. 12-New York Rangers (13-9-2, 28pts, 8th in East): Just hovering above the playoff line is not where Torts expected to be, they're improving though. 13-Vancouver Canucks (11-7-6, 28pts, 6th in West): Consistency has been a problem with the Canucks, like so many other teams in the West, they'll always be a threat though. 14-Minnesota Wild (13-9-2, 28pts, 3rd in West): This has to be the first time in years that the Nucks haven't led the Northwest division. (They're technically tied though). 15-San Jose Sharks (11-7-6, 28pts, 7th in West): They've slowed down a bit, but still have what it takes to make a long playoff run. 16-St. Louis Blues (13-10-2, 28pts, 8th in West): Like the Rangers, the Blues still trying to find their dominant form from last season. 17-Nashville Predators (10-9-6, 26 pts, 11th in West): Pekka Rinne is keeping this team in the hunt, and will continue to do so. 18-Phoenix Coyotes (12-10-3, 27pts, 9th in West): Just one point of the a playoff spot, the Yotes might just sneak in. 19-Dallas Stars (12-10-2, 26pts, 10th in West): Another team in the clustered Western Conference vying for a spot in the playoffs. 20-Philadelphia Flyers (12-14-1, 25pts, 11th in East): 11th place is a disappointment for a team that has as much talent as the Flyers. 21-Winnipeg Jets (12-11-2, 26pts, 9th in East): Despite inconsistency, the Jets remain in the playoff hunt thanks to the play of Andrew Ladd. 22-New York Islanders (11-12-3, 25pts, 10th in East): The pesky Islanders still in the playoff hunt. 23-Colorado Avalanche (10-10-4, 24pts, 12th in West): Slowly improving, getting healthier. 24-Columbus Blue Jackets (10-12-4, 24pts, 13th in West): Winners of 5 in a row (yeah that's not a lie) the Jackets are rolling, can they keep it going? 25-Washington Capitals (10-13-1, 21pts, 12th in East): They've shown some glimmers of brilliance, but are still struggling to find consistency. 26-Edmonton Oilers (9-11-5, 23pts, 14th in West): I still think the Oilers can sneak in but they'll need better play all around, could another first overall draft pick be in the cards? 27-Tampa Bay Lightning (10-14-1, 21pts, 13th in East): Tampa has fallen off in a big way, the once SE Division leaders now sit near the basement of the conference. 28-Calgary Flames (9-10-4, 22pts, 15th in West): Struggling mightily, their GM claims their a playoff team, but they have yet to show it. 29-Buffalo Sabres (9-14-3, 21pts, 14th in East): This is not a team that should be this low, but here they are, one up from the basement. 30-Florida Panthers (7-13-6, 20pts, 15th in East): The Panthers aren't getting much better, look for Versteeg, Fleischmann, Weiss and Kopecky to be heavily discussed names at the trade deadline.   3 STARS: BY POSITION Forwards: 1-Sidney Crosby (PIT): Showing us why he's the best player in the world, having an unbelievable season. 12 goals, 33 assists for a total of 45 points, averaging almost 2 points a game, he stands alone at the top. 2-Steven Stamkos (TBL): Widely considered the #1 contender to Crosby's belt, the Ontario native has 37 points in 25 games, and currently leads the league with 19 goals. 3-Chris Kunitz (PIT): Proving to be a valuable asset to the Pens, his chemistry with Crosby is "Sedin Brother" like. 17 goals, 19 assists, and 36 points in 26 games. Honorable Mention: Marty St. Louis, Ryan Getzlaf, Eric Staal, John Tavares. D-Men: 1-Kris Letang (PIT): 3 goals and 23 assists in 23 games played for the Pittsburgh Penguin, another weapon on an already stacked team. Is the current front runner (in my opinion) for the Norris Trophy. 2-Kimmo Timmonen (PHI): 3 goals and 16 assists has him tied for 2nd in d-man scoring, he'll need to keep this play up to keep the Flyers afloat. 3-Kevin Shattenkirk (STL): Still going at a strong pace, 2 goals and 17 assists in 25 games played so far for the young man. Honorable Mention: Nik Kronwall, PK Subban, Alex Peitrangelo, Ryan Suter, Andrei Markov. Goalies: 1-Cory Crawford (CHI): Leads all starters with a 1.91 GAA, and boasts a dandy .925 save %. Tied for 5th in the league with wins at 11. 2-Victor Fasth (ANA): May have stole the starting job from Hiller, the young Swede has been brilliant this year with a 1.92 GAA, and a .929 save %, 10 wins and only 1 regulation loss. 3-Tukka Rask (BOS): 2nd in the league with 12 wins, he has Bruins fans, not so much missing Tim "cry baby" Thomas. 1.97 GAA, .927 save %. Honorable Mention: Antti Niemi, Carey Price, Nicklas Backstrom, Henrik Lundquist UN SUNG HERO: Andrew Ladd (WPG): With 13 goals and 11 assists, Ladd has been the Jets most impressive, and most consistent player all year, he may even be the sole reason why they're still in the playoff picture. Runner Up: Jacob Voracek (PHI) BEST ROOKIE: Cory Conacher (TBL): Although he and his team have slowed down greatly, he still leads all rookies in scoring. Runner Up: Damien Brunner (DET) BIGGEST SURPRISE TEAM: Toronto Maple Leafs. They got bigger, and tougher. BIGGEST SURPRISE PLAYER: Nazim Kadri. Expected him to make an impact, but not this much, he's been everything the Leafs needed. BIGGEST LET DOWN TEAM: Honrable mention goes the the Philadelphia Flyers, but after their hot start, and subsequent horrid play, I have to go with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

\

It's Never Too Early to Preview the Olympics!

The 2014 Sochi Winter Olympic Games are fast approaching. I figured it wasn't too soon to preview our men's hockey team, and offer up my opinion on who I'd pick to play on the team. That is if they let NHL players participate, but that's another issue entirely which we won't discuss, yet.

Forwards:
-Sidney Crosby(C) (Pittsburgh Penguins): Give him the "C" already. He deserves it.
-Claude Giroux (Philadelphia Flyers): Sid's new rival in the NHL will be his teammate at the Olympics.
-Steven Stamkos (Tampa Bay Lightning): A natural center, but would fit nicely on the wing with Crosby.
-Jordan Ebrele (Edmonton Oilers): Can't say enough about his contributions to Hockey Canada already, it will only continue at the Olympics.
-Mike Richards (Los Angeles Kings): Plain and simple, Mike Richards is a winner.
-Jonathan Toews(A) (Chicago Blackhawks): Captain serious will be counted on for just about everything in 2014 for Canada.
-Rick Nash (New York Rangers): Showed some nice chemistry with Toews and Richards in 2010. Expect to see them together again in 2014.
-Corey Perry (Anaheim Ducks): He may not be in his 50 goal scorer form anymore, but he'll add some size to this stacked lineup.
-Eric Staal (Carolina Hurricaines): Hasn't had a season with less than 70 points.
-Jon Tavares(New York Islanders): Like Ebs, he's made a huge impact for Canada at the Junior level.
-Logan Couture(San Jose Sharks): The future of the San Jose Sharks. Will most likely fill the 4th line center duties for Canada.
-Taylor Hall (Edmonton Oilers): His speed is impressive in the NHL. It will be doubly effective in the big ice.
-Patrice Bergeron (Boston Bruins): Is my pick for 13th forward. Will take important faceoffs, and most probably kill penalties as well. Similar to his role in Vancouver.

D-Men:

-Shea Weber(A) (Nashville Predators):  Will be Canada's top d-man.
-Alex Pietrangelo (St. Louis Blues): One of the brightest young blue liners in the NHL.
-Duncan Keith(A) (Chicago Blackhawks): Will play a key role in both the penalty kill and power play.
-Brent Seabrook (Chicago Blackhawks): Will play alongside Keith as they do in the NHL for the Chicago Blackhawks.
-Kris Letang (Pittsburgh Penguins): He has become a top d-man in the NHL. Will fit in nicely.
-Drew Doughty (Los Angeles Kings): Played in 2010. Will be back in 2014
-Brian Campbell (Florida Panthers): If he makes the team, I wouldn't expect him to play alot 5 on 5. But he'd anchor the Powerplay nicely.

Goalies:
-Carey Price (Montreal Canadiens): The sole reason Montreal is still a threat in the NHL.
-Marc-Andre Fleury (Pittsburgh Penguins): Will compete with Price for the starters job.
-Cam Ward (Carolina Hurricanes): Can steal a game or two when he's on.

Projected Lines: This is merely speculation. The coaches will decide who plays where.
Line #1: Jordan Ebrele     Sidney Crosby     Steven Stamkos      
Line #2: Mike Richards    Jonathan Toews   Rick Nash
Line #3: Eric Staal           Claude Giroux      Corey Perry 
Line #4: Logan Couture   John Tavares        Taylor Hall
13th man: Patrice Bergeron

Projected D-Pairings:
Pair #1: Shea Weber         Alex Pietrangelo
Pair #2: Duncan Keith       Brent Seabrook
Pair #3: Kris Letang          Drew Doughty
7th man: Brian Campbell

Goalies:
Starter: Carey Price
Backup: Marc-Andre Fluery
Third: Cam Ward





     

1st Quarter of the Season 3 Stars by Position.

Forwards:
1-Tomas Vanek: Vanek has set himself apart in the early going racking up a monsterous 23 points in 12 games thus far. 11 goals and 12 assists is a pretty solid ratio! Best Forward this far.
2-Patrick Kane: 21 points thus far for the Buffalo native. Leading his Chicago BlackHawks to an unblemished regulation record.
3-Sidney Crosby: Tied with Kane at 21 points, Sid the Kid is once again showing all of us why he is the best hockey player in the world. Pittsburgh is a team that knows how to win, and that won't change any time soon with Crosby around.


D-Men:
1-Kevin Shattenkirk: While he may be over-looked at times due the the fact of having Peitrangelo on the St. Louis d-core, Shattenkirk is leading all defensemen in scoring with 14 points, a lead which he took from Winnipeg's Tobias Enstrom tonight.
2-Erik Karlsson: It's never good for the league when they lose a player as excited and talented as this. But with Karlsson missing the rest of the season with his injury, this is my way of honoring his efforts this far, on what still promises to be a bright career for the young Swede.
3-Tobias Enstrom: The Swede was on fire to begin the year and currently leads the Jets in points with 13. He has also succumbed to an injury recently and with the way he was working offensively, I can speak for all Jets fans in saying we wish him a speedy recovery.

Goalies:
1-Craig Anderson: With a .949 save percentage and a 1.58 GAA there's really no other choice. He sits tied for second in wins behind Carey Price with 7, and will be Ottawa's only hope of making the playoffs without Spezza and Karlsson.
2-Corey Crawford: I wasn't the only one doubting whether or not Crawford could be a #1 goaltender in this league and he's proving us all wrong. 7 wins, .935 save percentage, and a 1.65 GAA are some impressive numbers on an impressive team.
3-Pekka Rinne: He's collected 6 wins this far which is nothing to scoff at. Oh, did I mention 3 of them were shut outs? He currently leads the league in shut outs with 3 and has racked up a .938 save percentage, and a 1.61 GAA.

Top Rookie:
This far it's been Cory Conacher of the Tampa Bay Lightning. He's racked up 5 goals and 7 assists so far and leads all rookies in scoring. Vladimir Tarasenko is a close second with 6 goals and 11 points for the Blues.
TWITTER! @burnsy004

A Message to Jets "Fans"

   (Before I go on here, I want to make clear that I am not taking a shot at all Jets fans with this piece. Jets fans are amazing. I'm taking a shot at the people who are ready to give up on players when they have one bad game, or even one bad play. The "fans" who think that they know how to run the team better than the professionals who actually do it. This is a challenge to their loyalty to the Jets. Are they really fans? Maybe, or maybe they're just getting worked up over nothing....thanks).

   
So, I live in Winnipeg, and naturally, I find myself cheering for the Jets on a regular basis.
   However, despite their injury plagued blue line, horrid play from their forwards, and less than stellar play from Ondrej Pavelec, there's one thing that is making me more upset than any of that.
   And that is some of the "fans". I surround these "fans" in scare quotes because, I'm not so sure they're true fans.
   First, it's important to keep in mind we didn't buy an all-star franchise with 50 goal scorers and 100 point getters. We got a team with grinders, who periodically heat up and score some goals every now and then. To be fair to the Jets though, we have potential. Kane, Burmistrov, Schifele, and Trouba could one day be very important players for this team, but they are all still young.
   The Jets have said from the get go, they want to be a team who will build and improve though the draft. Meaning, they are not going to come here and become a power house within 2, 3, even maybe upwards of 6 years.
   Take a team like Nashville for example. Founded in 1998, didn't even make the playoffs until the 2003 season. And now they're one of the premier franchises in the NHL. They were patient, and they managed their players right. The Jets are trying to do the same. We got a franchise that traded Ilya Kovalchuck, and Marian Hossa.  A team that made some horrible draft choices. It's easy to say that the Atlanta Thrashers were a poorly, poorly, horribly, and any other bad descriptive word managed team.
   Basically, all this is leading to my message to Jets fans, which is this;
   CHILL OUT!
   Dustin Byfuglien is fat and out of shape some say, and yes, it's impossible to deny that Buff is on the larger side. But he's our best damn player, and most times, the only one who looks like he wants to score a goal, so leave him alone.
   As for Peluso's penalties, I may be one of the few defending the young man. And here is why; Anthony Peluso was brought in so he could fight, and maybe take a bit of that load off of Thorburn's shoulders. Zach Rinaldo (Philly's fighter) knew full well that this was an eager young enforcer from the minors who was looking to go toe to toe with Philly's heavyweight and make a good impression on the fans, hence, Rinaldo goading him into a penalty by making him think he wants to drop the gloves, and skating away. And as for his second penalty, I don't know how with two refs on the ice they missed the hit from behind on Burmi by Rinaldo, but they see the retaliation that happens a split second later. Peluso was right in standing up for his teammate on that one. The refs blew that call, like a few others from last nights game that I won't get into.
   Even just listening to the TSN 1290 Post Game show shows me that these so called "jets fans" who call in are throwing this team under the bus even though they are only a season and a quarter into their tenure in Winnipeg. And as I said before, we didn't adopt the Pittsburgh Penguins, we're not an all-star team.
  "Trade Tobi Enstrom", one guy said. Yeah, that's a great idea, let's trade the leading scorer on our team, and leading scorer amongst all defensemen in the NHL. I'm not going to sit here and say that Enstrom is as good as Erik Karlsson (of the Ottawa Senators), but when Karlsson had a bad game last year, did the Sens fans scream and cry for him to be traded? No, they didn't.
   There's going to be give and take with Tobi Enstrom. He's creative on the offensive side of the puck, and he plays his position well. But if you put a 6'2-6'5 forward up against him, he's going to lose that physical battle. Which is why Big Buff compliments him so well. Basically what I'm saying, is lay off Tobi. Who can we trade him for that would be better than him? Think about it.
   The next problem is people saying we need to as one post game show caller put it to "trade Kane and Ladd and get some guys who can score goals". Yeah, that's a great idea. How about we go to Pittsburgh, and say "hey, here's Ladd and Kane, give us Crosby and Malkin". I don't see that going over well with the Pens.
   People need to realize that it's not that easy, we can't just trade two of our best players, and expect to get a 40 goal scorer in return. We can, however, get one through the draft, if we pick him, and groom him for the NHL properly. If we get him, then our GM looks amazing, if we don't, then that's on him and our scouts.
   Basically, I think people should lay off the trading talks. What good is all this negativity amongst the fans doing for this team? None. It's managing to throw our team under the bus, but that's about it.
    I'm not saying fans don't have a reason to be upset, because they do. In a hockey crazed town like this, it's only expected that the fans will be upset if their team is losing. And I wouldn't expect otherwise, because the Jets fans ARE ABSOLUTELY THE MOST DEDICATED FANS IN THE NHL!
   It's okay to be upset, because the Jets are struggling, and sometimes, they are the most frustrating team in the NHL, but I don't understand why we feel that we are better at running a hockey organization than the professionals who actually know how to do it. It doesn't make sense.
   And truthfully, in the heat of the moment, everyone will say some things that they don't mean. Every now and then I will chime in with a "Dammit Hainsey", or a "for god sakes Kane" but do we really think we know how to run a team better than Kevin Chevaldayoff? Cause it seems that way.
   As fans, we will be upset when our team loses, and we will feel glorious when they win, because we are passionate, and we sure as hell love our team. But stop throwing our players under the bus when they have a bad game. Let's remember that they are human, just like the rest of us, and they will make mistakes. There are a lot of problems with this Jets team. Inconsistent goaltending, the streakiest forwards in the NHL, a banged up blue line, and the fact that they can't seem to close out a game to save their lives, but what good will it do for us to throw them under the bus after every game? Be patient with them. Be upset when they lose, be happy when they win, and keep hold of your opinions, as I am doing with mine. Because everyone is entitled to one. But stop bashing our guys! It doesn't help.
   RANT OVER! GO JETS GO!
TWITTER! @burnsy004

Quarter Season Power Rankings!

So we're a quarter of the way through this shortened season, and some teams are doing as we thought they would, and some are not. See where the teams rank in my Quarter Season Power Rankings!

1-Chicago Blackhawks: These guys still haven't lost in regulation. A 10-0-3 record looks pretty good right about now. They're firing on all cylinders.
2-New Jersey Devils: Life after Zach Parise isn't so bad is it? Clarkson and Elias leading the way.
3-Anaheim Ducks: Secondary scoring coming up huge for the Ducks. Goaltending looks solid, tied with New Jersey for second in the league.
4-Vancouver Canucks: Even with the absence of Kesler on their second line. The Nucks are still an elite team.
5-Boston Bruins: The Stanley Cup champs two years removed have seen their struggles this year, but remain one of the top teams in the league.
6-San Jose Sharks: Have cooled off after a fast start, still a top 10 team.
7-Pittsburgh Penguins: Sid lighting it up. Malkin not far behind. Pens are looking good.
8-Nashville Predators: Like NJ. They loss of one of their best players to Minnesota isn't looking all that bad. Then again, how can a team be bad with Pekka Rinne in net?
9-Ottawa Senators: Goaltending looks good. Turris off to a hot start. It will be interesting to see the impact that the loss of Spezza has on them.
10-Detroit Red Wings: Life after Lidstrom has proved tough, but Swiss rookie Damien Brunner off to a hot start, as are Datsyuk and Zetterberg, and when they're on, look out.
11-New York Rangers: Still my pick as the best skill for skill team in the leauge. Nash and Richards off to decent starts, Gaborik having a great start to the year.
12-Dallas Stars: Old guys looking pretty young at this point. Having the most underrated forward in Michael Ryder doesn't hurt either.
13-Carolina Hurricanes: After a slow start, the Canes have  heated up, taking over the lead in the Southeast Division.
14-Toronto Maple Leafs: Is this finally their year? We'll see, but they're looking pretty good. Nazim Kadri finally looking like the player the media built him up to be.
15-St. Louis Blues: After a hot start the Blues have cooled off. Elliot seeming like a one year wonder, but he's their guy until Halak comes back from injury.
16-Tampa Bay Lightning: When this team is on, they're a goal scoring machine, but they've cooled off significantly.
17-Philadelphia Flyers: They better improve their play quickly, or they could find themselves lost in a tough Atlantic Division.
18-Montreal Canadiens: Gallagher is an awesome rookie, Galchenyuk may be good for the future, Montreal inconsistent though.
19-Phoenix Coyotes: Still not sold on them. The Yotes are sitting at 8th in the West. But I still don't think they will make the playoffs.
20-Edmonton Oilers: Young guns off to a good start. But inconsistent goaltending, and equally inconsistent play from their veterans has plagued them thus far.
21-Minnesota Wild: Struggling despite making the biggest splash in Free Agency.
22-Los Angeles Kings: Last year's Cup champs can't seem to score a goal. Johnathan Quick having a shaky start to the season.
23-Buffalo Sabres: Vanek off to an insane start to the year, but Buffalo is failing to make any grade other than an F.
24-Winnipeg Jets: After a hot start, the Jets can't seem to buy a win. Inconsistent play up front, and a banged up blue line doesn't make for a winning team.
25-Florida Panthers: Last year's Southeast Division winners looking like one year wonders.
26-Washington Capitals: Awful, awful, awful start for the Caps. Who is Alex Ovechkin again?
27-New York Islanders: The Isle's can score goals, but can't keep them out of their net to save their dignity. They will be bottom feeders once again.
28-Columbus Blue Jackets: Though they don't look as bad as I thought they would, they're still the worst team in the West, despite Calgary, and Colorado's slow starts.
29-Calgary Flames: Have played less games than most other teams in the Western Conference, but they look real bad thus far. Without Kipper (injured), I don't see this team going anywhere.
30-Colorado Avalanche: Lost their captain early in the year, haven't recovered since.
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HOCKEY IS BACK! An SrBurns NHL Preview

   HOCKEY IS BACK!! We're all very excited about this. Now, I realize I haven't blogged here in a long time. But that's not because I forgot about it. It's just my home computer is a piece of (insert swear word here). I've seen the previews. And here is mine!
Western Conference:
1:Los Angeles Kings (Pacific Division)-The Kings have the most stacked team in the Western Conference, and arguably the best goaltender in the entire league. Most definitely the team to beat in the West. Even without Kopitar, they still have 4 all-star forwards in Dustin Brown, Justin Williams, Mike Richards and Jeff Carter.
2:Vancouver Canucks (Northwest Division)-The Canucks will be good for years to come. The Sedins are still good, D is solid with the likes of Bieksa, Hamhuis and Edler. Their second line is decimated right now but they will still be a power house. The losses of Kesler and Booth to injury will be costly, but they'll still be a power house.
3:St. Louis Blues (Central Division)-The stingy defense first Blues will once again win the Central. Gritty forwards with Backes, Oshie, and Perron, solid d in Peitrangelo, and Shattenkirk, and two All-Star goaltenders. That's a pretty damn fine mix.
4:Chicago BlackHawks (Central Division)-With a deep forward core including Toews, Kane, Sharp, and Hossa and two of the leagues premier d-men, the only question going forward for the Hawks is goaltending. Can Corey Crawford reach another level? We'll see!
5:Detroit Red Wings (Central Division)-Jimmy Howard is solid. Losing Lidstrom is a huge loss and it's Kronwalls turn to take hold of the blue line. All of Detroit's d-men will need to step up their games in a big way to even half replace Nick Lidstrom. Their Forwards will be good, as always is the case with Zetterberg and Datsyuk. It'll be interesting to see how newcomer Damien Brunner adapts to the NHL after lighting up the Swiss league.
6:Minnesota Wild (Northwest Division)- Adding Parise, and Suter makes Minnesota a playoff team. Give them their supporting cast in Dany Heatley, Devin Setoguchi, and rookie Mikael Granlund, Minnesota may be a dark horse in the West. They're a bit thin in regards to the rest of the back end, but having Nicklas Backstrom in net definately helps.
7:San Jose Sharks (Pacific Division)-Deep at the center position, expecting a big year out of Logan Coture, and of course Joe Thorton. With the rest of their forwards, and at least 4 solid d-men in Douglas Murray, Brad Stuart, Dan Boyle and Brent Burns the sharks will be a dark horse in the West this year. They share the same main concern with Chicago, can Antti Niemi get it done?
8:Nashville Predators (Central Division)-Nashville rounds out the playoff teams of the West. Pekka Rinne is in the one of the premier goaltenders in the league, and Shea Weber is the Norris favorite. Like St. Louis, they're stingy on d, have great goaltending, and a weaker yet opportunistic offense with the likes of Patric Hornqvist, David Legwand, and the Kostitsyn brother's.
9:Dallas Stars (Pacific Division)-This may be one that shocks some people, but I think Dallas made significant strides during the off season. Ray Whitney seems ageless, Jagr's in the same boat. Acquiring Derek Roy to play alongside Jamie Benn is also a solid move. However, their blue line is thin, and Kari Lethonen is inconsistent. They'll barely miss the cut.
10:Edmonton Oilers (Northwest Division)- Finally it's Edmonton's year. To not finish in last place. This is the best young group of forwards I've seen in years, adding Justin Schultz is huge, but he's too inexperienced. This mixed with questionable at best goaltending means the Oilers may come close, but won't make the cut.
11:Anaheim Ducks (Pacific Division)-Even with Perry and Getzlaf, the Ducks are too thin in most areas to make significant strides from last year. Smith-Pelley looks good for the future, as does Cam Fowler, and Lukas Sbisa on the back end. Hiller in net is the only consistent area of this team.
12:Colorado Avalanche (Northwest Division)-Ryan O'Reilly might stay in Russia, which is not good for Colorado. The Avs are similar to the Oilers in some respects. Just a few years behind. Nabbing Parenteau was a great addition, but their thin on the blue line, and in net. Landeskog is a stud. But the Avs won't make the cut.
13:Phoenix Coyotes (Pacific Division)-No matter how good they've been the past few years. I can still never get behind the Yotes. They're thin up front, Yandle is good but can't carry the offense, and Mike Smith is inconsistent. Chances are they'll surprise me again, but I don't think they'll make the cut this year.
14:Calgary Flames (Northwest Division)-Calgary's only sure things are Jerome Iginla and Mikka Kipprusoff. Everything else is a question mark. Giordano is shaping up to be a pretty good defender, but the Flames won't have enough to get into the playoffs this season.
15:Columbus Blue Jackets (Central Division)-What can I say about the Columbus Blue Jackets. Jack Johnson will be their only bright spot this year. They gave up Rick Nash, and Steve Mason and Curtis Stanford aren't exactly a solid goaltending duo. They will finish last place, and in a 48 game season. I think they'll be luck to win 10.



   And here's the Eastern Conference:
1:New York Rangers (Atlantic Division)-The Rangers have finally followed suit after their New York Brethren in the Yankees and begun to throw their money around, in a big way. Acquiring Rick Nash and adding him to an already deep mix of forwards makes the Rangers arguably the best team in the NHL. The d is good, and Lundqvist is a stud. They're my pick for the President's Trophy Winners.
2:Boston Bruins (Northeast Division)-The 2010 Cup Champs will once again be the grittiest team in the NHL, and with Chara on the back end they're almost guaranteed to have a good back end. One question that I have is where Tukka Rask will be. This is his time to shine. Since Tim Thomas is taking the year off (what is he upset Obama won a second term?) this is Tukka Rask's team now. They may not have as many offensive stars as the Rangers or the Pens but they'll be a threat.
3:Carolina Hurricanes (Southeast Division)-With Ovechkin struggling, and every other team in the Southeast making small improvements, the Carolina Hurricanes are the only team that I see that's made themselves a Stanley Cup contender from that division. Adding Semin and Jordan Staal will boost Eric Staals productions because he won't be relied upon so heavily. Justin Falk looks good on the back end, though that may be a place where they're a bit thin. Cam Ward is a great goaltender, and Carolina will be a dark horse in the East this year.
4:Pittsburgh Penguins (Atlantic Division)-Although they were ousted early by Philly last year, Pittsburgh still has the two most talented players in the world on their roster. It doesn't matter what winger you put with either of them, they will be a good team. Orpik, Letang, and Niskanen will anchor the back end, and Vokun and Fleury will tend the pipes, giving the Pens one of the most dangerous goaltending duo's in the NHL.
5:Philadelphia Flyers (Atlantic Division)-I'm one of many hockey fans that would love to see another 4-5 matchup between the Pens and the Flyers. Giroux is definitely getting himself into the conversation for the top player in the world honors, and the Flyers are deep at forward again as usual. Adding Shea Weber WOULD have been nice, in the absence of Pronger, and losing Carle will leave the blue line a bit thin. The biggest question for Philly is how Bryzgalov will play, if he plays like the highest paid goaltender in the NHL, they'll be a Stanley Cup threat, if he doesn't. We'll see what happens.
6:Washington Capitals (Southeast Division)-Ovie is due for a bounce back year. Adding Ribero will be a nice touch but I don't think it will be enough to make them a president's trophy contender. They'll be relatively deep both up front on the blue line, but Holtby is untested. It'll be interesting to see if he can establish himself as a prominent #1 goaltender in the NHL.
7:Ottawa Senators (Northeast Division)-The biggest question for Ottowa is their goaltending situation. From what seems to be the consensus, Craig Anderson is their guy. Ben Bishop is no slouch though. Erik Karlsson will lead up the d-core playing with Marc Methot. Losing Foligno lessens their offense a bit, but it's not a significant loss. Spezza and Karlsson will be relied upon to carry the offensive load, seeing if Alfredsson can have another good year remains to be seen.
8:New Jersey Devils (Atlantic Division)-Although they may have lost Zach Parise, the Devils still have one of the premier snipers in the NHL in Ilya Kovalchuck. Signing Travis Zajac and the rise of Adam Henrique could prove to be the deciding factors for the Devils this season. Aside from Larsson, they don't have a lot going on the back end, but it's by no means a weak blue line. Brodeur may be old, but he's still a #1 goaltender in the NHL.
9:Tampa Bay Lightning (Southeast Division)-It's hard to go against a team with a 60 goal scorer that has also improved its goaltending. But the Lighting will fall just short this year. Adding Lindback will be nice, as he's studied under Pekka Rinne for the past few years, and feels he's ready to start in the NHL. Bringing in Carle on the back end is also a nice touch, but it may not be enough.
10:Buffalo Sabres (Northeast Division)-With Ryan Miller in net Buffalo is always a threat to make the post season. They lack depth up front, as well on the back end. Christian Erhoff will have to have a great year on the blue line. Hodgson and Leino will have to step up their game, and their secondary scoring will need to step up as well.
11:Winnipeg Jets (Southeast Division)-The Jets have improved over this past extended off season. Finding a stead top line center to play with Evander Kane in Olli Jokinen was their best addition this summer, as well as adding Ponikarovsky up front to add to their size, and depth. Bogosian's absence on the back end is a huge loss, and that means Stuart and Hainsey will need to step up their game, but Paul Postma may fit in nicely as well. Pavelec needs to be consistently good as well. The Jets have improved from last year, but it may not be enough.
12:Montreal Canadiens (Northeast Division)-With Carey Price in net, the Canadiens could sneak into the playoffs, especially in a shortened season. If Andrei Markov stays healthy, and Georges and Subban play like they can, then the Canadiens have a real shot. They're thin up front, which seems to be their main concern. They'll need Plekanec, Gionta, and rookie Alex Galchenyuk to have good seasons.
13:Florida Panthers (Southeast Division)-Despite the strong year they had last season, winning the Southeast Division, the Panthers don't have a #1 goaltender in their presence. They're in the running to acquire Roberto Luongo, which would make them a playoff team but until that happens, they'll need to rely on the stingy offense of Versteeg, and Fleischmann, and hope their back end can hold up against the talented forwards in the Eastern Conference.
14:Toronto Maple Leafs (Northeast Division)-The Leafs lack a top line center, in a big way. Moving Van Reimsdyk over could prove costly, as he is a natural winger. And Tyler Bozak isn't a top line center. While they are also in the running to acquire Luongo, without him their goaltending is decent at best. Phaneuf will anchor the back end, where they actually have some young bright spots in Gunnarsson, and Gardiner. Only way I see the Leafs making the playoffs is if Kessel, and Lupul have huge years again, and Reimer steps up as a top goaltender.
15:New York Islanders (Atlantic Division)-Losing PA Parenteau to Colorado is a loss that this Islanders team won't get over this year. Jon Tavares is a (Pierre McGuire) monster, and is destined to become one of the premier players in the NHL. Streit is the only established d-man that they have, with Travis Hamonic looking good for the future as well. They have a decent goaltender in Evgeni Nabokov, but none of this will be enough to keep the Islanders out of the basement.

Awards:
Hart Memorial Trophy: (Awarded to the leagues MVP): My pick is Sidney Crosby, he's unreal. (other contenders: Evegeni Malkin, Claude Giroux, H & D Sedin, Cory Perry, Jonathan Toews, Steven Stamkos)
Art Ross Trophy: (Most points in the season) My pick is Sidney Crosby. (other contenders: refer to above list).
Norris Trophy: (Best Defensman): My pick is Shea Weber, he should have won last year. (other contenders: Erik Karlsson, Zdeno Chara, Duncan Keith, Kris Letang, Ryan Suter, Drew Doughty).
Vezina Trophy: (Best Goaltender): My pick is Henrik Lundqvist. (other contenders: Jonathan Quick, Cam Ward, Jimmy Howard, M-A Fluery).
Maurice Richard Trophy: (Most goals in a season): My pick is Steven Stamkos, he scored 60 last year. (other contenders: Cory Perry, Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin)
Calder Trophy: (Best Rookie): My pick is Justin Schultz of the oilers. (other contenders: Mikael Granlund, Nail Yakupov, Alex Galchenyuk).

Predictions:
President's Trophy: New York Rangers
Western Conference Playoff Champ: Los Angeles Kings
Eastern Conference Playoff Champ: Pittsburgh Penguins
Stanley Cup Champs: Pittsburgh Penguins
Conn Smythe Winner: Sidney Crosby/M-A Fleury
Dark Horse in the West: St. Louis Blues
Dark Horse in the East: Carolina Hurricanes