Pregame Preview: Canadiens at Predators (Game #38)

 
Match Up:

The Canadiens (21-13-3) are in Nashville to take on the Predators (16-16-3) Saturday night, their last game before the team gets a week break over the Christmas holiday. The match is set to start at 7:00 and airs on RDS and CBC.

This is the second and final meeting between the Habs and Preds this season. Rookie defenseman Seth Jones scored the game winning goal for the Predators with less than 90 seconds remaining in regulation putting the Predators ahead 2-1. David Legwand had a pair of assists for Nashville.

What to Watch:

Max Pacioretty and David Desharnais have been the Habs' most consistent offensive producers during their recent offensive drought. Since being shutout by the Kings, the Habs have scored just 7 goals in their last 5 games. Pacioretty and Desharnais each have 4 points in that span with Patches picking up 3 goals.

As much as the Habs have struggled offensively, the Predators aren't faring much better. The Preds are 26th in scoring with just 80 goals scored in 35 games. Legwand, the team's top scorer, has 6 goals and 25 points on the year, including 5 points in the last 5 games.

What's at Stake:

The Lightning have caught back up to the Canadiens to take over third sport in the Eastern conference. The Habs and Lightning are both at 45 points on the season but the Bolts have two games in hand on Montreal. With a win in Nashville the Canadiens have a chance to effectively end the first half of the season on a high note after a disappointing stretch.

Who's Out:

The Habs are missing George Parros (concussion) and Davis Drewiske (shoulder).

The Predators are only dealing with one injury but, it's a doozy. Pekka Rinne (hip infection) has been out of action since late October and there is no set timeline for his return.

 What Else:

Last season, scoring first was a major strength for the Habs, they struck first in 29 of 48 games last year. This season, Canadiens have opened the scoring in 19 of 37 games, slightly better than 50 percent. But December has been a different story altogether, in 10 games this month the Habs have only managed to score first in 3, and only once in their last 6, an overtime winner in their 1-0 victory of the Islanders.

The Question Mark:

Christmas is just around the corner and we want to know, what gift would you get the Habs this year and have they been naughty or nice in your books?

Let us know what you think by using the #MTLHockey hashtag on Twitter or leave us a comment below.

Be sure to tune into the Montreal Hockey Talk Pregame Show an hour before the puck drop and the Post Game Show 5 minutes after the final siren. Join the live conversation by using the #MTLHockey hashtag on Twitter.

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Habs/Preds Post-Game October 19th 2013

It's going to be hard to forget this one for the faithful, and for all the wrong reasons. While the Canadiens will come up short 2-1 in the books, nothing can do justice to the gaffe caused by the referees.

The Canadiens were on the receiving end of controversy Saturday night. Lars Eller seemed to have scored th go ahead goal midway through the third period but the call made by the official was reversed upon further review.To make matters worse, a statement was issued by the NHL. This statement failed to identify any rules that were followed and was only able to state that each official agreed the puck never crossed the line. This would not be as hard to swallow if the play was blown dead by an official who clearly indicated by pointing his arm towards the goal to indicate a goal had been scored!

While the "he said, he said" won't do much in this situation it is painful to think the NHL won't stand it's ground on its own guidelines.

The game itself was played as typically as one could expect of a matchup with the Predators. A high caliber defense combined with an exceptional goalie and a less than threatening attack. Most could have anticipated the game would finish with fewer than 4 goals crossing the goal line. 

Rinne and Price played outstanding. Neither permitted the puck to get by save for something exceptional as was the beautiful toe drag game winner by rookie sensation Seth Jones.

With 2 minutes left on the clock, the game tied at ones and seeming like the fans would need to stay a little longer. Montreal failed to clear the puck from their zone, most noticeably Travis Moen flailing his stick while lying on the ice, the puck found its way to the stick of Jones, who pulled off a slick toe drag to set up his own wrister that got by Price. Along with the goal was his 27 minute workload that was beaten only by long time captain and all-star Shea Weber, 28 minutes. 

It is very possible that the game could have gone out of hand much earlier had the Habs not been able to play such a stellar game short-handed, eventually finishing 5-6 on the PK. Most famously was the referee calling an "embezzlement" penalty against Subban. The Canadiens allowed one goal off of a shot by Weber, that hit 2 Canadiens on the way in. Price should not be faulted at all as it was a shot during the tail-end of an early 5-3 that bounced off of Prust and than Gorges before finding the net. 

Brandan Gallagher played his heart out tonight. For a player who does not boast the most size he certainly puts rubber on the net. He may not possess the greatest shot but any great scorer will tell you that the only way to score is to put the puck on net, he had a total of 9 SOG. His goal came as advertised, a scrum in front of the net found its way to the back of the net. 

The Canadiens should be commended on their ability to play while fighting off in game injuries. Danny Briere suffered a concussion, Brandon Prust took a fall into the end boards and left favoring his shoulder and Josh Gorges received a hit that delivered contact to both sides of his head. The injury list is starting to pile-up for the Canadiens in this short season and it will be a tough test to see how much they can fight the coming opponents in the Oilers, Sharks and Ducks. The farm in Hamilton will be getting a few calls and the fans will get an opportunity to see some of the Habs pipeline. 

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NHL 2013-2014 Conference Previews – Central

Paolo Mingarelli dives into the next conference out West, the Central, home of the Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks.

The Central division, as it stands, could be the host of the Western Conference Final. The Blackhawks and Blues are expected to make post-season appearances and will do so while making the seasons challenging for their division rivals. Much progress is being made by teams who have recently finished in the bottom tier of the NHL standings, of which 3 teams are located in the Central.

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS

ST. LOUIS BLUES

NASHVILLE PREDATORS

DALLAS STARS

MINNESOTA WILD

COLORADO AVALANCHE

WINNIPEG JETS

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NHL to Make Offer, Plan Bs, Time For Phoenix Coyotes and More

Good AM hockey fans!

Talks between the NHL and NHLPA are set to resume today, with the NHL reportedly getting ready to present a new offer.

Part of me fully expects some form of lockout at this point. But I also harbour this foolishly optimistic notion that the League could present a decent proposal, a starting point from which to work from.

Wishful thinking, no doubt.

Habs and Hockey News 

- Speaking of potential lockouts, a few more players have spoken out on their potential plans should their be a lockout. ESPN's Morning Links also features a few stories on the subject.

- Seems potential Phoenix Coyotes owner Greg Jamison still needs more time to finalize his attempt to purchase the beleaguered franchise. This is truly turning into the Neverending Story....

- The Hockey News wraps up its annual predictions, revealing their pick for top spot in each conference. Speaking of predictions, USA Today compares the ever-connected Nashville Predators and Detroit Red Wings. Their conclusion? Nashville should come out on top.

- Habs Eyes On The Prize continues its look at the best Canadiens under 25, today looking at number ten, Sebastien Collberg.

- Here is quirky story out of Sweden, courtesy of USA Today. Apparently, a star in Sweden's Third Division intentionally punched his coach, therefore being released from his contract with the team which in turn allowed him to sign in the Second Division. In any case, the story is worth reading — especially for the pun at the end of it.

- Finally, don't forget to look at Amos Legault's interesting retrospective on the NHL's old goaltending rules.

(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images North America)

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Max Pacioretty's New Deal, Hartnell Signs, Danton Denied and More

Hello Hab fans!

It was reported yesterday that the Philadelphia Flyers signed Scott Hartnell to a six-year, $28.5 million contract extension. Said extension will have an average cap hit of $4.75 million and will take the hard-nosed winger to his 37th birthday.

As Mike Obrand, aka Habs Laughs, pointed out on Twitter, it sure makes Max Pacioretty's extension look like gold.

After all, it is doubtful Hartnell will be as effective in the final couple of years of his deal, especially considering his rather rough style of play. And, while he had 37 goals last year, that seems more like an anomaly than the norm.

Pacioretty, who has a similar deal in his back pocket, is much younger and possesses a much higher ceiling.

Habs and Hockey News

- Did you know it was Toe Blake's 100th birthday today? Hockey Inside/Out has a story on the legendary Canadien.

- Mike Boone of the Gazette looks at Habs' fans ever hopeful nature.

- Even if you only follow RDS occasionally, I suspect you know that Patrick Roy is joining their nightly debate show l'Antichambre. After all, they have been promoting the heck out of it.

- Mike Danton was denied an entry visa into England. He was heading over there to play with the Coventry Blaze of the EIHL, Great Britain's top ice hockey circuit.

- Former Ottawa Senator Mike Fisher signed a two-year extension with the Nashville Predators.

- Amidst all of the CBA talk, the NHL is also holding a rules summit this week. Namely, the standard for interference, holding and hooking penalties will be looked at.

(Photo by Mike Ridewood/Getty Images North America)

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Dany Heatley Goes to Court, Max Pacioretty Fantasy Projection, Team Canada and More

Happy Sunday!

Is it just me, or is the Summer of 2012 chock full of legal proceedings involving NHL figures?

The Nashville Predators are being sued for a failed "Flying Puck" stunt. Now, if you thought being a flying puck was devoid of any injury risk, you are kind of stupid in my opinion, but I digress.

Elsewhere, Bob Murray and colleagues are currently defending themselves against assault charges.

And, finally, it was reported yesterday that Dany Heatley is brining his former agent to court on charges of fraud. Travis Yost at HockeyBuzz takes a detailed look at the case.

I suppose in an offseason focused on CBA talks, all of these legal happenings are befitting.

Habs and Hockey News

- HabsWorld's Fantasy Focus series continues, this time making projections for the newly extended Max Pacioretty.

- New York Islanders (for now) defensemen Lubomir Vishnovsky was in a car accident but is reportedly uninjured.

-  Team Canada won its fifth straight U18 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament. Super prospect Nathan Mackinnon had a hat trick in the game.

(Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images North America)

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Canadiens Extend Timmins, New Scouts, Hanaan and More

Happy Saturday Hab fans!

Yesterday, Marc Bergevin continued his significant retooling of the the front office, extending Trevor Timmins contract and adding Donald Audette and Mark Mowers as scouts.

Clearly, scouting is a priority for Bergevin. Not only have five scouts been added this summer, but Martin Lapointe was hired to help relieve Timmins of some of his player development duties.

For all of the on-ice moves made this summer, it is perhaps these behind-the-scene changes that will have the longest lasting impact.

Habs and Hockey News

- HabsWorld's story on the Timmins extension.

- The Nashville Predators signed Scott Hanaan to a one-year, $1 million deal. Good depth move.

- Amidst the recent focus on CBA talks, Stu Hackel reminds us that the on-ice aspects of the game are also being worked on.

- Bob Murray testified in court, defending himself against assault charges.



(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America)

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Worried about Subban, Ken Dryden's Birthday, Markham and More

Good AM Hockey Fans!

I don't mean to hammer away at the P.K Subban contract situation. I really don't.

But in fairness to me and my daily task of writing this roundup, nothing else is going on. Nada. Rien. Nichts.

Eric Engels, over at HockeyBuzz, feels like patience is required and that the situation will resolve itself, most likely before the beginning of camp.

Generally, I share his view. But, I must admit, the fact this has stretched so long has me somewhat concerned. I feel that Subban his now more of an offer sheet or trade candidate that at any previous point.

In any case, I want to know, are you getting worried?

Habs and Hockey News

- Ken Dryden turns 65 today.

- TSN has been reporting that Graham Roustan submitted his plans for an NHL-sized arena to the city of Markham. If this is successful, the area could easily compete with Quebec City or Seattle for any relocated franchise.

- Given the recent injury news regarding Andrej Meszaros, the Philadelphia Flyers have signed Marc-Andre Bourdon to a multi-year extension. Ryan Kennedy, over at The Hockey News, believes the organization's eye for talent will help them weather the recent news.

- THN continues unveiling its predictions, this time looking at no. 14 in each conference. The good news? Montreal is not there.

- Adam Davis, of WRVM in Nashville, is suing the Predators because of an injury sustained will practicing to be a human puck. Let me get this straight. Davis agreed to the stunt, which sounds insanely dumb to begin with, and then gets injured practicing for it. And now, as if he could not foresee any potential risks in this stupid endeavor, is suing the Preds.

(Photo by Rich Lam/Getty Images North America)

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Nashville Retains Shea Weber, Doan to Montreal?, Nash, Wilson and More

Good AM!

After many days of waiting, the Nashville Predators matched the Philadelphia Flyers 14-year, $110 million offer for Shea Weber.

While the offer forces the Predators to ante up $26 million in signing bonuses in the next 11 months, it would have been quite surprising for the Tennessee club not to match.

After all, do you really think Weber is worth only four late first round picks?

Habs and Hockey News

- According to TVA Sports, Shane Doan is currently considering an offer from the Montreal Canadiens.

- Scott Burnside considers the pressure put on Shea Weber now that the Predators have decided to retain him. Allan Muir of SI also offers his insights on the topic.

- The Nashville Predators have been busy. Not only have they matched the Shea Weber offer, but they have also re-signed Colin Wilson to a three-year deal.

- Rory Boylen of The Hockey News dissects the Rick Nash deal.

- It seems the NHLPA is close to tabling a counter-proposal to the league's initial CBA offer.



(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images North America)

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Scott Gomez's Ace, Weber Fallout, Gagner, Kulemin and More

Happy Friday Hab fans!

Hockey Inside/Out sure has a funny story for us.

Guess who won a car at his own charity golf tournament by shooting a hole-in-one?

Scott Gomez, that's who.

The irony of Gomez, who could not manage to score a goal within a calendar year, doing this is just too delicious, isn't?

Habs and Hockey News

- Shea Weber's decision to sign a 14-year, $110 million offer sheet with the Philadelphia Flyers continues to make waves. Over at TSN, Darren Dreger looks at the impact of this on the finance of the Nashville Predators. Meanwhile, at ESPN, Scott Burnside contemplates the disconnect between this contract and the owner's stance during CBA negotiations.

- Adam Proteau of The Hockey News looks at how Weber's new deal reflects the wide gap between certain NHL markets. Kevin Allen and Stu Haeckel also offer up their takes on the situation.

- HabsWorld looks at when a third overall pick should start in the NHL.

- Sam Gagner signs with the Edmonton Oilers while Nikolai Kulemin avoids arbitration with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

- Alan Bass has an interesting piece on motivation and coaching tactics.

(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images North America)

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Shea Weber Signs Offer with Flyers, Quincey, Negotiations and More

Hello Hockey Fans!

Talk about a late night bombshell, as it was revealed around 1 AM that Shea Weber had signed a 14-year, $110 million deal with the Philadelphia Flyers.

Reportedly, the deal includes $68 million in bonus money in the first six years.

The Nashville Predators now have seven days to match the offer or accept the compensation of four first round draft picks.

Given the Flyers typically strong position in the standings, one gets the sense that the standard compensation won't exactly cut it for the Predators. After all, this isn't Tomas Vanek we are talking about either. This is the face of the Predators franchise, a franchise that is now firmly between a rock and a hard place.

What would you do?

Habs and Hockey News

- The Hockey News looks at the Predators' current predicament.

- Defenseman Kyle Quincey agreed to a $7.55 million, two-year contract with the Detroit Red Wings. Quincey was acquired late in the 2012 campaign in a three-way deal with Tampa Bay and Colorado.

- The NHL and NHLPA continued CBA discussions in New York. Stu Haeckel, at Sports Illustrated, looks at where the CBA talks may be headed.

- Good discussion to be had on some of the remaining issues for the Montreal Canadiens.

- Did you know that former Hab Pierre Dagenais plied his trade in the Federal Hockey League this past season. The FHL is an A level hockey league below both the ECHL and Central Hockey League. It is also quite a drop for Dagenais, who has played in the NHL, AHL and KHL before. Then again, Dagenais did have 143 points in 45 games last year.

(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images North America)

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Habs News, Coyotes, Glendale, Rangers and More

Good morning hockey fans!

If, at any point before the start of the playoffs, you thought the Western Conference Final would be between the Phoenix Coyotes and Los Angeles Kings, I will buy you a cola.

Seriously.

Now, two teams who have never won a Stanley Cup will fight for the chance at grabbing the ultimate prize.

Two teams in oft derided southern markets have a chance to represent the West.

And two of the top ten television markets on the continent will rule the hockey airwaves for the next round.

Good for the growth of the league and, by extension, of the game. Wouldn't you say?

Habs News

HabsWorld.net - HW 3 Stars - The 2011-12 Season

La Presse - Martin Lapointe chez le CH?

Hockey News

Sports Illustrated - Playoff pressure on goaltenders is more intense than ever

Sports Illustrated - Giroux’s hit on Zubrus gives Shanahan second chance to get ruling right

The Hockey News - Ken Campbell: Why Glendale will regret keeping Coyotes

The Hockey News - Joel Ward penalty costs Capitals series advantage; Mike Smith levels up to Round 3

TSN - Bettman announces tentative agreement on sale of Coyotes

TSN - Cullen: Rangers, Coyotes record big wins Monday

USA Today - Coyotes knock out Predators, move into conference final

USA Today - Plenty of blame for Predators' collapse

USA Today - Rangers stun Capitals in overtime after late tying goal

(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

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Habs News, Crawford, Phoenix, Red Zone and More

 

Happy Saturday Hab addicts!

I will forfeit my usual commentary this morning and simply leave you to your weekend reading.

As per usual, our links are quite well garnished this morning.

Habs News

HabsAddict.com - Louis Moustakas on CKCU's Red Zone - May 4th 2012

IIHF - Czech's Prevail 2-0

Louis' Note: Tomas Plekanec had two assists in the win against Lars Eller and the Danish squad.

La Presse - 10+1 questions avec Marc Bergevin

La Presse - Entraîneur du CH: Patrick Roy toujours favori

RDS - Le CH devrait rencontrer Marc Crawford

Hockey News

ESPN - Now that's a day off

ESPN - Coyotes about to lose anonymity

The Hockey News - Without Kostitsyn and Radulov, Predators need more from Suter and Weber

TSN - McKenzie: Trotz, Poile will feel pressure for their decision

TSN - Fraser: Penalty shot standards and the NHL playoffs

USA Today - Coyotes blank Predators for 3-1 series lead

USA Today - USA routs France at worlds; Canada up next

(Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)

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Bergevin named GM, Triple OT, Nashville and More

Good morning Hab fans!

Yesterday was certainly a day rich in stories, both in Montreal and across the league.

As you well know by now, Marc Bergevin was named the Montreal Canadiens' 17th General Manager. Kamal and I also covered the story earlier yesterday, which you can find here.

While many questions are still unanswered, Bergevin quickly made his mark, moving embattled interim head coach Randy Cunneyworth back to his post as assistant coach. He also made it clear that whoever becomes the new head coach will decide whether Cuneyworth remains.
Elsewhere, the New York Rangers and the Washington Capitals played the longest game in these playoffs, needing three overtime periods before Marian Gaborik potted the game winning goal for the Blueshirts.

Meanwhile, the Nashville Predators' gamble of sitting top-scorers Alexander Radulov and Andrei Kostitsyn paid off, as they defeated the Phoenix Coyotes 2-0.

It's never dull at this time of year, is it?

Habs News

HabsAddict - Marc Bergevin Named the Next GM of the Montreal Canadiens

HabsAddict - Habs Press Release - Marc Bergevin appointed General Manager

ESPN - Marc Bergevin can arrest Habs' cultural slide

HabsWorld.net - Marc Bergevin Named GM

La Presse - Marc Bergevin, le gars de Pointe-Saint-Charles

La Presse - Bergevin: le nouveau visage souriant du Canadien

RDS - Enfin de la fraîcheur

The Hockey News - Adam Proteau: Light-hearted Marc Bergevin perfect fit as Canadiens GM

The Hockey News - VIDEO: THN Puck Panel – Montreal Canadiens hire Marc Bergevin as new GM

TSN - Off-Season Game Plan: Montreal Canadiens

TSN - Montreal's Man

Hockey News

ESPN - Radulov, Kostitsyn sitting out Game 4

ESPN - Odds are McLellan will stay with Sharks

The Hockey News - Capitals blow opportunity; will Radulov and Kostitsyn return for Predators in Game 4?

TSN - McKenzie: Could Rangers have won battle but lost war?

TSN - Fraser: Why no slashing call on David Clarkson?

USA Today - Predators beat Coyotes without suspended pair

USA Today - Gaborik lifts Rangers past Capitals in third OT

(Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images North America)

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Molson's 12 Steps, McGuire Interviewed, Bergevin, Coyotes, Flyers and More

Good morning Hab fans!

After weeks of speculation, it seems that Pierre McGuire indeed a contender for the vacant General Manager position. Reports surfaced yesterday that the NBC analyst was interviewed by Serge Savard over the last few days.

It remains unclear if that interview was by phone or in person.

Even more interestingly, Rick Moffat reported via Twitter that Sports Illustrated's Michael Farber confirmed that both Marc Bergevin and Pierre McGuire have had follow-up interviews.

In fact, they may even be two of the organization's final candidates.

If they truly are the final two, how do you feel about that?

Habs News

HabsAddict - Geoff Molson: 12 Steps to Recovery

La Presse - Subban: «On aurait pu causer la surprise...»

La Presse - David Desharnais ou le doute des autres

TSN - Report: Canadiens interview McGuire for vacant GM job

TSN - Subban injured in pre-Worlds game; not expected to be serious

Hockey News

HabsAddict - Quick Picks: NHL Conference Semifinals

ESPN - Melrose: Flyers just too much

Sports Illustrated - Unpredictable playoffs a concussion lottery

Sports Illustrated - The keys to each series of the conference semifinals

The Hockey News - NHL's most clutch player gives Flyers Game 1 win; Phoenix forwards figure out Nashville

TSN - Cullen: Briere leads Flyers, Coyotes go up 2-0

USA Today - Coyotes beat Predators to go up 2-0 in series

USA Today - Briere nets winner, Flyers edge Devils in OT

(Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America)

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Quick Picks: NHL Conference Semifinals

Round one is now well behind us, with only eight teams remaining in contention for Lord Stanley's cup.

Notwithstanding the fact that Round Two got into full swing last night and that I had a miserable 3-5 record for predictions in the opening round, I will nonetheless deliver picks for the Conference Semifinals.

Take them for their worth.

East: New York Rangers (1) vs. Washington Capitals (7)

My pick: Washington Capitals in seven games

Why? The Washington Capitals recently pulled a stunning upset of the defending Stanley Cup champions and they have the ability to pull off another such upset against the top-seeded New York Rangers.

Both teams have received stellar goaltending and put up fantastic defensive performances. Both squads have also seen a lot of their scoring come from their depth players as opposed to their stars.

But the Rangers stars have been far quieter, and that is worrisome. While Brad Richards and Ryan Callahan are one-two in team scoring, other offensively minded players have been silent. Namely, Marian Gaborik and Brandon Dubinsky have been absent from the scoresheet, each contributing only one point thus far.

Conversely, in Washington, Alex Ovechkin leads his squad with five points. Brooks Laich and Nicklas Backstrom are right behind with four points. Even the enigmatic Alex Semin has looked involved these playoffs and has a decent three goal output, including one game winner.

None of the above statistics are especially impressive, but neither team had an opportunity to pad their stats due to the very defensive nature of their previous series.

If Washington continues to receive contributions throughout its lineup, that should tip the scales in their favor.

Assuming, of course, that Braden Holtby continues his strong play.

East:`Philadelphia Flyers (5) vs. New Jersey Devils (6)

My pick: New Jersey Devils in seven games.

Why? The Devils can keep pucks out of their net. Martin Brodeur regained some of his form of old, posting a .922 save percentage and miniscule 2.06 goals against average in his series against the Florida Panthers.

Mind you, the Panthers are not as offensively potent as the Philadelphia Flyers, but the above numbers remain impressive. And those numbers become even more impressive when contrasted with Ilya Bryzgalov's monstrous 3.89 goals against average and pedestrian .871 save percentage.

Even should this series turn into a more offensively focused one, the Devils possess the tools to compete in such a context. Zach Parise, Ilya Kovalchuk, Travis Zajac and Adam Henrique own the ability to trade blows with the likes of Claude Giroux, Jaromir Jagr and Daniel Briere.

In the end, New Jersey's ability to defend should help them prevail.

West: St. Louis Blues (2) vs. Los Angeles Kings (8)

My pick: Los Angeles Kings in seven games

Why?  Maybe because the Kings have the best goaltender in the NHL in Jonathan Quick.

Or maybe because Dustin Brown has been a force.

Or maybe because I am not predisposed to picking the Blues for some reason.

Or maybe because I am in an upset-picking mood.

West: Phoenix Coyotes (3) vs. Nashville Predators (4)

My pick: Phoenix Coyotes in seven games

Why? In the spirit of full disclosure, it should be said that these lines were written following Phoenix's 4-3 overtime triumph in Game 1.

Given that extra information, it should be evident that the Phoenix Coyotes are more than able to bend without breaking. Going to overtime a stunning six times already this post-season, Dave Tippet's squad is on an extra-time run reminiscent of the 1993 Montreal Canadiens.

The Nashville Predators are undoubtedly a mighty, physical foe. But their top-scorers, namely Martin Erat, Patrick Hornqvist and the Kostitsyn brothers, are sporadic playoff performers.

In contrast, the Coyotes have received important contributions throughout their lineup, with both their depth players and defense stepping up with important points. While they may be devoid of top-flight talent, the Coyotes offer up almost four full lines of individuals capable of scoring. That is quite difficult to compose with, even for a talented coach like Barry Trotz.

Oh yeah, and they have some dude named Mike Smith in net. No disrespect to the excellent Pekka Rinne, but advantage Phoenix.  

What are your thoughts on Round Two?

---

Louis is an Associate Editor and Senior Writer at HabsAddict.com. Born in Chicago, Louis grew up in Quebec City where he earned Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Université Laval. Find him on twitter @LouisMoustakas

(Photo by Getty Images North America)

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Yotes top Preds, Bergevin and the Habs, Forsberg, Draft and more

That's it folks, the second round of the 2012 NHL playoffs have officially begun.

And just like in the first round, last night's premiere between the Coyotes and Nashville was exciting, tight, and went into overtime.

And who woulda thunk it, the 'Yotes came out with the victory. And that despite taking their foot off the gas and letting the Preds back into that game.

This Phoenix team continues to impress and suprise, pulling out Game One versus a Predators group who many feel are the odds on favorite to win the Cup.

Man, I love playoff hockey!

Habs News

Hockey Inside/Out - Coyotes take Game 1 over Nashville in OT

Cyberpresse - Marc Bergevin a discuté avec le Canadien

Cyberpresse - Filip Forsberg: «J'adorerais jouer pour le Canadien»

Hockey News

TSN - WHITNEY SCORES IN OT AS COYOTES EDGE PREDATORS IN GAME 1

TSN - HODGEMAIL: CANADA'S TEAMS HEAD INTO THE OFF-SEASON

TSN - CULLEN: SHOTS AND SAVE PCT. INTO RD. 2 OF NHL PLAYOFFS

THN - Coyotes get away with letting off the gas in Game 1 win

(Photo - Christian Petersen/Getty Images North America)

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Senators Headed For Seven, Coyotes Move On, TV Ratings, Interference and More

Good morning Hockey fans!

With the Phoenix Coyotes' 4-0 win last night over the Chicago Blackhawks, the beleaguered team from the desert has formally cemented their place in the second round. In fact, it's the Coyotes first series win since moving to Arizona.

Looking at the setup out West, you have to think that Gary Bettman is relatively pleased. Not only do the four remaining teams — the Coyotes, Predators, Kings and Blues — give a significant boost to the game's exposure in the South, but Phoenix and Los Angeles also represent two of the top television markets in the USA.

On the heel of already strong ratings, I bet the commissioner is hoping that bigger markets like Boston, Miami and New York pull through in the East.

But, of course, I am sure he is really just a fan of all of the teams.

Hockey News


ESPN - Goaltending rules the day out West

ESPN - Things to know from Monday's games

La Presse - Journée triste et grise sur Ottawa

SB Nation - NHL Playoff TV Ratings: Capitals Vs. Bruins Game 6 Tops Winter Classic As Most-Watched This Season

Sports Illustrated - Historic first round a contrast of excitement and hockey’s dark side

The Hockey News - Phenomenal Mike Smith makes Phoenix history; Rangers take advantage of Senators penalty troubles, send series to Game 7

TSN - McKenzie: Frustration for Senators; success for Coyotes

TSN - Cullen: Coyotes advance, Rangers-Sens not done yet

USA Today - Smith, Coyotes oust Blackhawks 4-0

USA Today - Rangers edge Senators to force Game 7

(Photo by Bill Smith/NHLI via Getty Images)

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Pens force Game 6, Wings eliminated, Bettman, Gillis and more

Morning puck addicts!

Don't look now, but it looks like the Pittsburgh Penguins are trying to make a series out of things. Down 3-0 in their first round matchup against the Flyers, the Pens have stormed back, winning the last two games (including last night), to make it a 3-2 series.

The series now shifts back to Philly where the Flyers try to grab that ellusive fourth win. If not, and the Pens can somehow tie the series and send it back to Pittsburgh for a decisive Game Seven, does Philly stand a chance?

On the West coast, the Preds beat and eliminated the Red Wings. They certainly are no longer Detroit's little brother. The question now is, what happens to the Wings? Bounced in the first round and with several aged veterans, what will this squad look like next season?

Don't you just love the playoffs?

Hockey News

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THN - Goalies hold key to any miracle Penguins comeback; Predators win a changing of guard?

(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America)

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Panesar and Moustakas: Post-Season Pandemonium

Upon returning from a family excursion to Israel, our Kamal Panesar came back to a surprisingly rough NHL post-season.

With your new favorite duo reunited, we discuss the early playoff madness.

Kamal Panesar: New York Rangers' forward Carl Hagelin was recently handed three games for elbowing Ottawa Senators' captain Daniel Alfredsson in the head. The right call, in my estimation. So why nothing for Weber on Zetterberg? Oh, wait, is it because he is a superstar?

Blech. Bush league.

Louis Moustakas: Bush league indeed.

Weber evading suspension is baffling. Perhaps it is because he is a star, as you point out, or perhaps the league does not want to dim the playoff hopes of one of its shining southern markets. Either way, the NHL once again missed a precious opportunity to set a proper disciplinary tone. And, in failing to suspend Weber, Brendan Shannahan has created more problems for himself.

First of all, from a public relations point of view, this is a nightmare. Following Hagelin's three game punishment, the New York Rangers released a statement mentioning that they "are thoroughly perplexed in the ruling's inconsistency with other supplementary discipline decisions that have been made throughout this season and during the playoffs." If that is not a thinly veiled reference to the Weber incident, I don't know what is.

Second of all, Weber walking away scot free sets the tone for the playoffs. Typically more aggressive teams like the Flyers, Rangers and Bruins all stand to be benefit from a more clement environment while teams not inclined to play in such fashion are disadvantaged.

In any case, do you not find the league's stance on such issues confusing?

Kamal Panesar: I find it inconceivable how the Gary Bettman NHL simply refuses to protect it’s assets (the players), and insists, stubbornly, on putting their collective heads in the sand. It is beyond childish and it only hurts the game. The fact that they refuse to admit there is a concussion epidemic, even though such non-pugilistic player like Sidney Crosby, Claude Giroux, Daniel Sedin, Carey Price, and many, many other superstars, were felled by this exactly problem this year.

When Brendan Shannahan became the head of NHL discipline last summer, the hope was that there was a new sheriff in town who would get away from Colin Campbell’s farcical disciplinary ruling style: one type of punishment for stars and one for everyone else.

And, to his credit, Shannahan started off that way. But he has backslid so severely that his rulings are now just as unclear, inconsistent and confusing as his predecessor. What will it take for this league to get it’s stuff in order? A death on the ice?

Louis Moustakas: The only thing that would truly shake up the league's culture of laissez-faire is if the rough and tumble negatively impacted their bottom line. Much like how the crackdown on obstruction occurred only after the devastating lost season of 2004-2005, I feel that, in the short term, it would take something equally dramatic to create a true shift in league culture. 

However, with playoff excitement at a fever pitch and news that US T.Vratings are strong, I doubt Bettman and company feel any impetus for change. Heck, they barely seemed concerned about raising the maximum fine (2500$) in the CBA!

As for Shannahan, he has done a great deal to diminish his credibility this post-season. Not only was the Weber non-suspension an aberration, but then news leaked that he might reduce Carl Hagelin's suspension if Daniel Alfredsson returned to health sooner than expected.

It is all well and good to take into account injury in doling out a suspension, but it seems incredibly inappropriate to go back on a decision, doesn't it?

In the end, without wide ranging support and clear, quantifiable disciplinary guidelines, it is near impossible to fulfill Shannahan's role with any real success though.

Kamal Panesar: Ultimately, Louis, you’re 100 percent correct. Nothing will change. Moreover, there will be no impetus for Bettman et al. to change anything as long as ratings are high and the dollars are rolling in. It really feels like someone is going to have to die, on the ice, for the league to change its prehistoric ways.

Too dramatic? I don’t think so.

If we go back to the Zdeno Chara hit on Max Pacioretty last season, I thought that was the moment. My initial feeling was that Pacioretty was dead and that it was that defining moment where the league would be forced to change their ways. Fortunately I was wrong and Pacioretty ended up being alright. However, given the league’s recent, inconsistent rulings, I still think that horrific, Earth-stopping moment is around the corner.

I mean, unless the league makes clear decisions to curb unsafe behavior on the ice, this problem can only escalate.

On a final note, if you want an example of how to “clean up” the game, check out OHL commissioner, David Branch. This guy took it upon himself to clean things up and started imposing huge suspensions and fines for any dangerous plays and head-shots, without discriminating between stars and regular players. Well, in a matter of a season or two there are virtually no more on-ice shenanigans going on in that league—a league that many consider to have some of the best hockey in the world.

Now Branch and the OHL are taking it another step forward and talking about removing fighting completely.

That remains a topic for another day but, suffice it to say the NHL needs to get rid of the goonery, while keeping the toughness. There is simply no room for ANY player grabbing another player by the helmet and ramming his head into the glass. None. I don’t care if you are a superstar or a fringe NHLer. And until the NHL realizes and starts enforcing the rules as such, I will continue fear an eventual death in the NHL.

But that’s just me.

Louis Moustakas: My friend, your concerns and feelings are quite legitimate.

The worst part of all of this is that the league lacks clear direction, making things even more dangerous. Players hesitate to police themselves, fearing reprimand. Yet, when an incident arises, the disciplinary measures imposed are tepid at best. It creates an atmosphere where individuals are not held accountable for their actions, be it in physical or financial manner.

The Milan Lucic hit on Ryan Miller earlier this year is a perfect example. The Buffalo Sabres did not cause a brawl after Lucic's dangerous hit and, when they looked to the league for a response, the Bruins forward went unpunished.

Now, after years of watching the league do nothing, it seems the players have gone back to self-policing in these playoffs. But self-policing is a fine line, one that can quickly cross over to reckless vigilantism. Clearly, though, the league seems unaffected by these potential risks. And, until grave injury occurs, one suspects they will continue to remain indifferent to the situation.

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Kamal is a freelance writer, Senior Writer/Editor-in-Chief of HabsAddict.com, Montreal Canadiens Blogger on Hockeybuzz.com and featured columnist on PowerScoutHockey.com. Kamal is also a regular on-air contributor on TSN 990, CJAD, LiveSport New Zealand, and other radio networks.

Follow Kamal on Facebook and Twitter

Louis is an Associate Editor and Senior Writer at HabsAddict.com. Born in Chicago, Louis grew up in Quebec City where he earned Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Université Laval. Find him on twitter @LouisMoustakas

(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images North America)

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