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The Washington Capitals well remember last year’s choke job in blowing a 3-1 series lead against No. 8 Montreal in last year’s first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. And you know another playoff flameout was on Washington fans’ minds on Wednesday night in Game 1 with the No. 8 New York Rangers leading 1-0 late.
But then Alex Ovechkin stepped up with and pushed the game-tying goal past Henrik Lundqvist at 13:44 of the third period. That gave the Caps life, and Alexander Semin gave the Caps the win by ripping a Jason Arnott pass past Lundqvist at 18:24 of the first overtime for a 2-1 victory. Semin had 28 goals in the regular season but hadn’t scored a playoff goal since Game 7 of the Capitals' quarterfinals series against the Rangers in 2009 – a 14-game drought. He also assisted on Ovechkin’s goal. That two-point effort matches the total he had in the series loss to Montreal in 2010. The Caps also got some good news in that No. 1 defenseman Mike Green played for the first time since he was elbowed by the Rangers’ Derek Stepan on Feb. 25. Green had an assist and played 26:30.
Washington is -160 on Bodog’s NHL odds to take tonight’s Game 2. The Rangers have to feel pretty good about their chances. Lundqvist was stellar, stopping 31 shots (including a Nicklas Backstrom breakaway), through regulation and overtime. But the offense wasn’t great and the Blueshirts must spend more time in Washington’s zone. Rangers forward Marian Gaborik hasn't scored a goal in 10 straight games and that streak must end for New York to win this series. He had four shots on goal in Game 1. In an effort to try and wring more offense out of his lineup, Coach John Tortorella toyed with some line changes during Thursday’s practice.
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But then Alex Ovechkin stepped up with and pushed the game-tying goal past Henrik Lundqvist at 13:44 of the third period. That gave the Caps life, and Alexander Semin gave the Caps the win by ripping a Jason Arnott pass past Lundqvist at 18:24 of the first overtime for a 2-1 victory. Semin had 28 goals in the regular season but hadn’t scored a playoff goal since Game 7 of the Capitals' quarterfinals series against the Rangers in 2009 – a 14-game drought. He also assisted on Ovechkin’s goal. That two-point effort matches the total he had in the series loss to Montreal in 2010. The Caps also got some good news in that No. 1 defenseman Mike Green played for the first time since he was elbowed by the Rangers’ Derek Stepan on Feb. 25. Green had an assist and played 26:30.
Washington is -160 on Bodog’s NHL odds to take tonight’s Game 2. The Rangers have to feel pretty good about their chances. Lundqvist was stellar, stopping 31 shots (including a Nicklas Backstrom breakaway), through regulation and overtime. But the offense wasn’t great and the Blueshirts must spend more time in Washington’s zone. Rangers forward Marian Gaborik hasn't scored a goal in 10 straight games and that streak must end for New York to win this series. He had four shots on goal in Game 1. In an effort to try and wring more offense out of his lineup, Coach John Tortorella toyed with some line changes during Thursday’s practice.
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Thanks largely to goalie Marc-Andre Fleury, the Pittsburgh Penguins didn’t miss superstar Sidney Crosby in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference playoff series with Tampa Bay on Wednesday night. But it might be a bit much to expect Fleury to shut out one of the NHL’s highest-scoring teams again in Friday’s Game 2. The Penguins opened as -135 favorites on Bodog’s NHL odds.
Fleury made 32 saves in the opening 3-0 victory. It was his fifth career postseason shutout victory and he’s now just one shutout win behind equaling the franchise record of six set by Tom Barrasso.
The Lightning, who finished second in the East with 247 goals, vowed to be more aggressive this time. Their Big 3 of Martin St. Louis, Steven Stamkos and Vincent Lecavalier had obviously no points and a minus-5 rating. They had one total shot combined through the first two periods. Stamkos, who has a combined 96 goals in the past two regular seasons, seemed rattled after getting crushed by Pittsburgh’s Brooks Orpik on Stamkos’ first shift. He would finish with one total shot in his playoff debut. And St. Louis was cracked across the mouth by an errant stick from Penguins defenseman Zbynek Michalek, suffered three fractured teeth and needed a double root canal on Thursday. The Lightning also weren’t happy that Pittsburgh had six power-play opportunities and they only had one.
The Penguins simply need to make sure Alexei Kovalev scores again. He had his 45th career postseason goal in the third period in Game 1 and the Penguins are now 5-0 all-time when Kovalev scores a postseason goal.
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Fleury made 32 saves in the opening 3-0 victory. It was his fifth career postseason shutout victory and he’s now just one shutout win behind equaling the franchise record of six set by Tom Barrasso.
The Lightning, who finished second in the East with 247 goals, vowed to be more aggressive this time. Their Big 3 of Martin St. Louis, Steven Stamkos and Vincent Lecavalier had obviously no points and a minus-5 rating. They had one total shot combined through the first two periods. Stamkos, who has a combined 96 goals in the past two regular seasons, seemed rattled after getting crushed by Pittsburgh’s Brooks Orpik on Stamkos’ first shift. He would finish with one total shot in his playoff debut. And St. Louis was cracked across the mouth by an errant stick from Penguins defenseman Zbynek Michalek, suffered three fractured teeth and needed a double root canal on Thursday. The Lightning also weren’t happy that Pittsburgh had six power-play opportunities and they only had one.
The Penguins simply need to make sure Alexei Kovalev scores again. He had his 45th career postseason goal in the third period in Game 1 and the Penguins are now 5-0 all-time when Kovalev scores a postseason goal.
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We may know by Sunday night whether there will be a new Stanley Cup champion in the NHL in 2011. It’s not that a 3-0 series deficit is impossible to overcome – the Philadelphia Flyers did it last year against the Boston Bruins – but it has only happened three times in NHL history, so the Chicago Blackhawks obviously face a must-win on Sunday night at home against Vancouver down two games to none. Bet on this game with Bodog’s NHL odds.
The Hawks felt confident going into Friday’s Game 2 knowing they had lost Game 1 in the previous two postseasons to Vancouver only to rebound and win the series in six – Chicago won Game 2 in both occasions. Not Friday. For the second straight game, the Canucks took a 2-0 lead and the Hawks could never get even. In Stanley Cup playoff history, teams holding a 2-0 series advantage have been eliminated only 41 of 307 times (13.4 percent).
Plus Vancouver gets key winger Raffi Torres back on Sunday as he served the final game of his two-game suspension in Game 2. The lone bright spot for Chicago on Friday was rookie Ben Smith’s two goals. It was just the eighth game of his NHL career. But the Hawks’ top scorers have been quiet as that’s where the Vancouver defense is focusing. Patrick Sharp led the Hawks in Game 2 with five shots on net. He had four in Game 1 but none of the nine have gone in. And reigning Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Toews had zero shots on net in 22:04 of ice time in Game 2. Reigning Norris Trophy winner Duncan Keith was a team-worst minus-2 while bumbling a Hawks’ power play which eventually led to the Canucks first goal.
Chicago is hoping that checking-line center Dave Bolland, who suffered a concussion March 9 when he took an elbow to the head from the Lightning's Pavel Kubina, will be able to return for Game 3 but it’s unlikely. He hasn’t played since that injury.
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The Hawks felt confident going into Friday’s Game 2 knowing they had lost Game 1 in the previous two postseasons to Vancouver only to rebound and win the series in six – Chicago won Game 2 in both occasions. Not Friday. For the second straight game, the Canucks took a 2-0 lead and the Hawks could never get even. In Stanley Cup playoff history, teams holding a 2-0 series advantage have been eliminated only 41 of 307 times (13.4 percent).
Plus Vancouver gets key winger Raffi Torres back on Sunday as he served the final game of his two-game suspension in Game 2. The lone bright spot for Chicago on Friday was rookie Ben Smith’s two goals. It was just the eighth game of his NHL career. But the Hawks’ top scorers have been quiet as that’s where the Vancouver defense is focusing. Patrick Sharp led the Hawks in Game 2 with five shots on net. He had four in Game 1 but none of the nine have gone in. And reigning Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Toews had zero shots on net in 22:04 of ice time in Game 2. Reigning Norris Trophy winner Duncan Keith was a team-worst minus-2 while bumbling a Hawks’ power play which eventually led to the Canucks first goal.
Chicago is hoping that checking-line center Dave Bolland, who suffered a concussion March 9 when he took an elbow to the head from the Lightning's Pavel Kubina, will be able to return for Game 3 but it’s unlikely. He hasn’t played since that injury.
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The New York Rangers knew offense was going to be a problem in their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series against the Washington Capitals, and if that problem doesn’t get solved in Game 3 this series is all but over. Bet on Game 3 with Bodog’s NHL odds.
Goalie Henrik Lundqvist has been typically stellar, but the Blueshirts have all of one goal so far in this series and are down two games to none despite only having allowed the Caps two goals each in the first two games. In Friday’s Game 2, New York managed only 22 shots on rookie goalie Michal Neuvirth. The 23-year-old, who had four shutouts in the regular season, has stopped 46 of 47 shots so far in the series.
History says the Rangers are toast. Only once in franchise history have the Rangers overcome losses in the first two games of a playoff series. In 1996, the Blueshirts dropped Games 1 and 2 to the Canadiens in the first round, then rallied to win the next four games. New York’s highest-paid player, Marian Gaborik, has been invisible for the most part. The last time Gaborik scored was March 20 in Pittsburgh. He is now on an 11-game goal drought. He played Friday on a newly created line with Erik Christensen and Vinny Prospal, but it didn’t help matters.
New York totaled just nine shots in the game’s final 40 minutes on Friday. Its lone goal this series is from a defenseman (Matt Gilroy) who was playing in the first Stanley Cup playoff game of his NHL career. Dating back to Game 2 of the East quarters between the Caps and Rangers, the Blueshirts have now scored a total of three goals in their last five postseason games in Washington.
It’s only the second time Washington has held a 2-0 edge in a series under Coach Bruce Boudreau; the first was in 2009 in a seven-game loss to Pittsburgh in the second round.
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Goalie Henrik Lundqvist has been typically stellar, but the Blueshirts have all of one goal so far in this series and are down two games to none despite only having allowed the Caps two goals each in the first two games. In Friday’s Game 2, New York managed only 22 shots on rookie goalie Michal Neuvirth. The 23-year-old, who had four shutouts in the regular season, has stopped 46 of 47 shots so far in the series.
History says the Rangers are toast. Only once in franchise history have the Rangers overcome losses in the first two games of a playoff series. In 1996, the Blueshirts dropped Games 1 and 2 to the Canadiens in the first round, then rallied to win the next four games. New York’s highest-paid player, Marian Gaborik, has been invisible for the most part. The last time Gaborik scored was March 20 in Pittsburgh. He is now on an 11-game goal drought. He played Friday on a newly created line with Erik Christensen and Vinny Prospal, but it didn’t help matters.
New York totaled just nine shots in the game’s final 40 minutes on Friday. Its lone goal this series is from a defenseman (Matt Gilroy) who was playing in the first Stanley Cup playoff game of his NHL career. Dating back to Game 2 of the East quarters between the Caps and Rangers, the Blueshirts have now scored a total of three goals in their last five postseason games in Washington.
It’s only the second time Washington has held a 2-0 edge in a series under Coach Bruce Boudreau; the first was in 2009 in a seven-game loss to Pittsburgh in the second round.
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Believe it or not the reigning Stanley Cup champions are the first of this year's 2011 playoff group to face elimination. After a Sunday night loss, the Blackhawks face a 0-3 deficit at the hands of the Vancouver Canucks.
The most recent blow, in Chicago no less, came during a 3-2 loss in which Canucks veteran Mikael Samuelsson potted a third-period game-winner. Put your money on Game 4 with Bodog's NHL playoff betting.
Despite the overwhelming odds favorite the Canucks had as the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, many were cautious to rule Chicago out given the fact that they went all the way as recently as last year. With some of their major contributors from 2010 on board this time around, an upset wasn't entirely out of the equation.
Now just one win removed from a first-round sweep, the Canucks have impressive odds of winning the Stanley Cup. Considering that they led the West and the NHL for the majority of the regular season, it should come as no surprise that they are stepping up in the post-season.
Despite Vancouver's regular season success, however, the black cloud of their recent history has hung over their heads, giving fans of NHL betting reservation when making their picks. In each of the past two seasons, the Blackhawks were the team to eliminate Vancouver, both times in the second round.
Though a three-game lead doesn't guarantee a series win, it certainly doesn't hurt. Unless the Canucks collapse like the Boston Bruins did to the Philadelphia Flyers last spring, Roberto Luongo and company may be staring at one of the only sweeps in this year's first round.
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The most recent blow, in Chicago no less, came during a 3-2 loss in which Canucks veteran Mikael Samuelsson potted a third-period game-winner. Put your money on Game 4 with Bodog's NHL playoff betting.
Despite the overwhelming odds favorite the Canucks had as the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, many were cautious to rule Chicago out given the fact that they went all the way as recently as last year. With some of their major contributors from 2010 on board this time around, an upset wasn't entirely out of the equation.
Now just one win removed from a first-round sweep, the Canucks have impressive odds of winning the Stanley Cup. Considering that they led the West and the NHL for the majority of the regular season, it should come as no surprise that they are stepping up in the post-season.
Despite Vancouver's regular season success, however, the black cloud of their recent history has hung over their heads, giving fans of NHL betting reservation when making their picks. In each of the past two seasons, the Blackhawks were the team to eliminate Vancouver, both times in the second round.
Though a three-game lead doesn't guarantee a series win, it certainly doesn't hurt. Unless the Canucks collapse like the Boston Bruins did to the Philadelphia Flyers last spring, Roberto Luongo and company may be staring at one of the only sweeps in this year's first round.
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The Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins have more shared history than just about any other rivalry in the NHL. The current incarnations absolutely hate each other, and things could get out of hand when they head to Montreal for Game 3 of the series on Monday.
The Canadiens have shocked NHL betting fans by grabbing a 2-0 lead in the series. Boston was supposed to be bigger and more physical than the Habs, but the mismatch has hardly mattered so far.
The biggest difference-maker has been Carey Price. The goalie has gone from savior, to scapegoat, to hero during his four years in Montreal, and he’s been spectacular so far in the postseason. Price has stopped 64 of the 65 shots he’s faced so far, stealing some major thunder from Boston goalie Tim Thomas, who is expected to win the Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s best goalie.
Price is a little flaky, though, and he’s been known to get the yips—and it makes one wonder if returning to the Bell Centre could actually work against the Canadiens. Montreal’s crowd borders on maniacal, and a quick start by Boston or some early flubs by Price could turn the crowd against the young goalie. If that happens, we’ll finally get a true test as to whether or not Price has raised his game to a new level.
There could be a thirst for blood in the air as well. Montrealers tend to tear apart the city when they win hockey games, and they’re not going to be too happy to see this Boston club. Monday marks the first time the Bruins have returned to Montreal since Zdeno Chara rode Max Pacioretty into a padded stanchion; the hit left Pacioretty with a broken vertebrae. You don’t often see fights in playoff hockey, but don’t be surprised to see the Bruins and Habs drop the gloves a few times thanks to a little extra encouragement from the fans.
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The Canadiens have shocked NHL betting fans by grabbing a 2-0 lead in the series. Boston was supposed to be bigger and more physical than the Habs, but the mismatch has hardly mattered so far.
The biggest difference-maker has been Carey Price. The goalie has gone from savior, to scapegoat, to hero during his four years in Montreal, and he’s been spectacular so far in the postseason. Price has stopped 64 of the 65 shots he’s faced so far, stealing some major thunder from Boston goalie Tim Thomas, who is expected to win the Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s best goalie.
Price is a little flaky, though, and he’s been known to get the yips—and it makes one wonder if returning to the Bell Centre could actually work against the Canadiens. Montreal’s crowd borders on maniacal, and a quick start by Boston or some early flubs by Price could turn the crowd against the young goalie. If that happens, we’ll finally get a true test as to whether or not Price has raised his game to a new level.
There could be a thirst for blood in the air as well. Montrealers tend to tear apart the city when they win hockey games, and they’re not going to be too happy to see this Boston club. Monday marks the first time the Bruins have returned to Montreal since Zdeno Chara rode Max Pacioretty into a padded stanchion; the hit left Pacioretty with a broken vertebrae. You don’t often see fights in playoff hockey, but don’t be surprised to see the Bruins and Habs drop the gloves a few times thanks to a little extra encouragement from the fans.
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After getting bounced from the playoffs by the Chicago Blackhawks in two straight seasons, the Vancouver Canucks aren’t just on the verge of getting the monkey off their backs—they’re going to leave the monkey battered and bruised.
The Canucks have leaped to a 3-0 series lead against Chicago but, despite past history, NHL betting fans shouldn’t be terribly surprised. Vancouver was dominant for almost the entire regular season. The Blackhawks, meanwhile, backed into the playoffs, sneaking in only because Dallas failed to take care of business in its final game of the year. Game 4 gets underway on Tuesday night.
Perhaps the biggest difference from the past two playoff campaigns and this one is the confidence of Roberto Luongo. The Canucks goalie has long been regarded as one of the game’s best, but he’s been average at best in the postseason, and he didn’t often steal games for Vancouver when it really mattered.
Consider that a thing of the past. Luongo earned a 32-save shutout in the opening game of the series. He was solid if unspectacular in Game 2, stopping 23 of 26 shots and doing enough to win. Luongo was positively brilliant in Game 3, however, making 30 saves in the 3-2 victory. He was easily Vancouver’s best penalty killer, making several ridiculous stops, including a pair of saves during a Blackhawks 5-on-3 power play. Luongo left Chicago sniper Patrick Kane particularly frustrated; Kane had several wonderful opportunities to score, only to be stymied by the Canucks goalie every time.
The defending champion Blackhawks just may not have it this season—including the regular-season finale against Detroit, which would have clinched a playoff spot, Chicago has now lost four straight games.
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The Canucks have leaped to a 3-0 series lead against Chicago but, despite past history, NHL betting fans shouldn’t be terribly surprised. Vancouver was dominant for almost the entire regular season. The Blackhawks, meanwhile, backed into the playoffs, sneaking in only because Dallas failed to take care of business in its final game of the year. Game 4 gets underway on Tuesday night.
Perhaps the biggest difference from the past two playoff campaigns and this one is the confidence of Roberto Luongo. The Canucks goalie has long been regarded as one of the game’s best, but he’s been average at best in the postseason, and he didn’t often steal games for Vancouver when it really mattered.
Consider that a thing of the past. Luongo earned a 32-save shutout in the opening game of the series. He was solid if unspectacular in Game 2, stopping 23 of 26 shots and doing enough to win. Luongo was positively brilliant in Game 3, however, making 30 saves in the 3-2 victory. He was easily Vancouver’s best penalty killer, making several ridiculous stops, including a pair of saves during a Blackhawks 5-on-3 power play. Luongo left Chicago sniper Patrick Kane particularly frustrated; Kane had several wonderful opportunities to score, only to be stymied by the Canucks goalie every time.
The defending champion Blackhawks just may not have it this season—including the regular-season finale against Detroit, which would have clinched a playoff spot, Chicago has now lost four straight games.
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The Detroit Red Wings’ playoff hopes largely rest on the health of Henrik Zetterberg—or, at least NHL betting fans thought they were supposed to. The Wings have raced out to a 3-0 series lead over the Phoenix Coyotes, with Game 4 set to go for Wednesday.
Zetterberg was instrumental in Detroit’s fine regular season, scoring 24 goals and leading the team with 80 points. An ankle injury cost him the final game of the regular season and, without him in the playoffs, Detroit was supposed to take a step or two back. That hasn’t been the case so far, as the Wings have piled up a dozen goals in three games against the Coyotes.
The biggest benefit is that Detroit no longer needs to rush Zetterberg back into the lineup. With a 3-0 series lead, the club can afford to take its time and save the forward for the next round (barring an epic collapse, of course). Zetterberg has returned to skating drills, so there’s a great chance he’ll be ready for the next round.
Without him, just about everybody has jumped into the mix. Nine different Red Wings have scored against Phoenix, though Pavel Datsyuk has certainly been the best of the bunch. In addition to being a great two-way forward, Datsyuk has racked up two goals and three assists through three games.
As for the Coyotes, they were never really in Monday’s 4-2 loss. The Red Wings pounced all over them, scoring a pair of goals in the first three minutes. The Wings were up 3-0 before Phoenix finally answered with a goal of its own.
Ilya Bryzgalov was supposed to be a difference-maker for Phoenix, but the goalie has struggled mightily so far—or at least played well below expectations. For whatever reason, he just doesn’t seem to fare well against the Wings; he allowed 11 goals in four games against Detroit during the regular season, the most against any non-division opponent. In last year’s playoffs, he allowed 24 goals in seven games.
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Zetterberg was instrumental in Detroit’s fine regular season, scoring 24 goals and leading the team with 80 points. An ankle injury cost him the final game of the regular season and, without him in the playoffs, Detroit was supposed to take a step or two back. That hasn’t been the case so far, as the Wings have piled up a dozen goals in three games against the Coyotes.
The biggest benefit is that Detroit no longer needs to rush Zetterberg back into the lineup. With a 3-0 series lead, the club can afford to take its time and save the forward for the next round (barring an epic collapse, of course). Zetterberg has returned to skating drills, so there’s a great chance he’ll be ready for the next round.
Without him, just about everybody has jumped into the mix. Nine different Red Wings have scored against Phoenix, though Pavel Datsyuk has certainly been the best of the bunch. In addition to being a great two-way forward, Datsyuk has racked up two goals and three assists through three games.
As for the Coyotes, they were never really in Monday’s 4-2 loss. The Red Wings pounced all over them, scoring a pair of goals in the first three minutes. The Wings were up 3-0 before Phoenix finally answered with a goal of its own.
Ilya Bryzgalov was supposed to be a difference-maker for Phoenix, but the goalie has struggled mightily so far—or at least played well below expectations. For whatever reason, he just doesn’t seem to fare well against the Wings; he allowed 11 goals in four games against Detroit during the regular season, the most against any non-division opponent. In last year’s playoffs, he allowed 24 goals in seven games.
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The Anaheim Ducks have some of the most explosive scorers in the NHL, but so far they find themselves trailing 2-1 in their first-round series with the Nashville Predators. NHL betting fans are gearing up for Game 4, which gets underway Wednesday evening.
With talent like Corey Perry, Ryan Getzlaf, Teemu Selanne and Bobby Ryan up front, Anaheim was expected to fill the net during the postseason. Though the offense delivered in a 5-3 victory in Game 2, it has been mostly quiet in the Ducks’ two losses.
It doesn’t help that Ryan got himself suspended for two games. He stomped on Nashville defenseman Jonathon Blum’s foot during a battle for the puck in Friday’s win. Without Ryan in the lineup on Sunday the Ducks' offense looked miserable; the team managed just 16 shots on goal, and they had just five late in the second period.
Of course, credit should be given where credit is due. Nashville boasts one of the best defensive groups in the NHL, and the unit did a great job flustering Anaheim’s dynamic forwards in Game 3. With Ryan out for Game 4, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a similar result on Wednesday.
To make matters worse, Anaheim is dealing with issues in goal. All-Star Jonas Hiller is still out with vertigo, and the Ducks have allowed the scoring-challenged Predators to rack up 11 goals in three games. Ray Emery started on Sunday, and he could use a little more help from his teammates. He faced 37 shots, and obviously Nashville’s strategy is to put as many pucks on net as possible.
Mike Fisher has been the best of the bunch in Nashville. Acquired from the Senators late in the season, Fisher had just five goals and 12 points in 27 games with the Predators. He’s been a different player in the postseason, racking up three goals and two assists through three games.
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With talent like Corey Perry, Ryan Getzlaf, Teemu Selanne and Bobby Ryan up front, Anaheim was expected to fill the net during the postseason. Though the offense delivered in a 5-3 victory in Game 2, it has been mostly quiet in the Ducks’ two losses.
It doesn’t help that Ryan got himself suspended for two games. He stomped on Nashville defenseman Jonathon Blum’s foot during a battle for the puck in Friday’s win. Without Ryan in the lineup on Sunday the Ducks' offense looked miserable; the team managed just 16 shots on goal, and they had just five late in the second period.
Of course, credit should be given where credit is due. Nashville boasts one of the best defensive groups in the NHL, and the unit did a great job flustering Anaheim’s dynamic forwards in Game 3. With Ryan out for Game 4, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a similar result on Wednesday.
To make matters worse, Anaheim is dealing with issues in goal. All-Star Jonas Hiller is still out with vertigo, and the Ducks have allowed the scoring-challenged Predators to rack up 11 goals in three games. Ray Emery started on Sunday, and he could use a little more help from his teammates. He faced 37 shots, and obviously Nashville’s strategy is to put as many pucks on net as possible.
Mike Fisher has been the best of the bunch in Nashville. Acquired from the Senators late in the season, Fisher had just five goals and 12 points in 27 games with the Predators. He’s been a different player in the postseason, racking up three goals and two assists through three games.
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The Los Angeles Kings were supposed to struggle against the San Jose Sharks without their star sniper in the lineup, but if a 6-5 overtime loss in Game 3 was any indication, scoring hasn’t been the problem—it’s keeping the puck out of the net.
The Kings suffered a tremendous blow late in the regular season when Anze Kopitar tore ligaments in his ankle. The dynamic forward scored 25 goals and led Los Angeles with 73 points in 75 games. His absence was supposed to hamper L.A. against the Sharks, but the Kings have managed an impressive nine goals in their past two games. They could use some more scoring from their forwards, though, as their two point-getters—Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson—play defense.
Unfortunately, they still trail the series 2-1 thanks to an epic meltdown on Tuesday. Los Angeles took a 4-0 lead less than a minute into the second period, but they were suddenly thrashed by a San Jose onslaught. The Sharks racked up five goals in the second period, tying the game. Devin Setoguchi broke the deadlock, scoring three minutes into overtime and giving San Jose a 6-5 win.
What’s especially frightening is how much damage San Jose did at even strength. The Sharks had just three power-play opportunities and scored on one of them, yet still managed to rack up six goals.
Now, the Kings must find a way to regroup. Young goalie Jonathan Quick has been exposed in the playoffs before; he was pulled against the Canucks last season after giving up five goals early in the third period. If Quick can’t find some composure, he’ll find himself on the pine once again. He needs to look no further than Game 1 and 2 for solace, however; Quick stopped 76 of the 79 shots he faced (.962 save percentage), including a 4-0 victory in Game 2.
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The Kings suffered a tremendous blow late in the regular season when Anze Kopitar tore ligaments in his ankle. The dynamic forward scored 25 goals and led Los Angeles with 73 points in 75 games. His absence was supposed to hamper L.A. against the Sharks, but the Kings have managed an impressive nine goals in their past two games. They could use some more scoring from their forwards, though, as their two point-getters—Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson—play defense.
Unfortunately, they still trail the series 2-1 thanks to an epic meltdown on Tuesday. Los Angeles took a 4-0 lead less than a minute into the second period, but they were suddenly thrashed by a San Jose onslaught. The Sharks racked up five goals in the second period, tying the game. Devin Setoguchi broke the deadlock, scoring three minutes into overtime and giving San Jose a 6-5 win.
What’s especially frightening is how much damage San Jose did at even strength. The Sharks had just three power-play opportunities and scored on one of them, yet still managed to rack up six goals.
Now, the Kings must find a way to regroup. Young goalie Jonathan Quick has been exposed in the playoffs before; he was pulled against the Canucks last season after giving up five goals early in the third period. If Quick can’t find some composure, he’ll find himself on the pine once again. He needs to look no further than Game 1 and 2 for solace, however; Quick stopped 76 of the 79 shots he faced (.962 save percentage), including a 4-0 victory in Game 2.
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The New York Rangers’ NHL playoff fate may well have been sealed in Wednesday’s Game 4 loss to the Washington Capitals. It was one of those losses that can leave a hangover for weeks, not just days. Now it’s all-or-nothing for the Rangers down three games to one for Saturday’s Game 5 back in Washington. The Caps are Bodog NHL favorites to close out the series.
The Blueshirts were at home and with a 3-0 lead through two periods on Wednesday as the series appeared destined to be tied 2-2. Alexander Semin started Washington's rally at 2:47 of the third, and Marcus Johansson scored twice to make it 3-3. Jason Chimera then stunned the crowed when he scored 12:36 into the second overtime and finished off the Capitals' 4-3 victory. All three of his career playoff goals have been game-winners. Chimera joined Mike Gartner (April 11, 1985) and Joé Juneau (April 26, 1998) as one of only three Capitals in franchise history to score a playoff game-winner beyond the first overtime period.
New York was the only NHL team this season to be perfect when leading after two periods (29-0). It was crushing to say the least. Two of the Rangers' second-period goals came in just seven seconds, and one of them was by Marian Gaborik, his first in a 13-game span stretching back a month. And Henrik Lundqvist was brilliant with 49 saves. Mistakes or turnovers led to three of Washington's four goals. The Capitals had gone a franchise record six straight postseason games without scoring as many as three goals in a game.
If there is one thing the Rangers can at least use as motivation it’s that the Caps were in this same position against a No. 8 seed last year and lost the final three games. Whatever happens, look for a scoreless first period. All four games so far have been 0-0 after one period.
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The Blueshirts were at home and with a 3-0 lead through two periods on Wednesday as the series appeared destined to be tied 2-2. Alexander Semin started Washington's rally at 2:47 of the third, and Marcus Johansson scored twice to make it 3-3. Jason Chimera then stunned the crowed when he scored 12:36 into the second overtime and finished off the Capitals' 4-3 victory. All three of his career playoff goals have been game-winners. Chimera joined Mike Gartner (April 11, 1985) and Joé Juneau (April 26, 1998) as one of only three Capitals in franchise history to score a playoff game-winner beyond the first overtime period.
New York was the only NHL team this season to be perfect when leading after two periods (29-0). It was crushing to say the least. Two of the Rangers' second-period goals came in just seven seconds, and one of them was by Marian Gaborik, his first in a 13-game span stretching back a month. And Henrik Lundqvist was brilliant with 49 saves. Mistakes or turnovers led to three of Washington's four goals. The Capitals had gone a franchise record six straight postseason games without scoring as many as three goals in a game.
If there is one thing the Rangers can at least use as motivation it’s that the Caps were in this same position against a No. 8 seed last year and lost the final three games. Whatever happens, look for a scoreless first period. All four games so far have been 0-0 after one period.
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The San Jose Sharks get a second chance to close out their series with the Los Angeles Kings on Monday. San Jose is a -130 favourite on the NHL playoff betting odds.
The Sharks have a 3-2 series lead, but they couldn’t close the deal in Game 5, losing 3-1. A brutal, lethargic start cost San Jose on Saturday. They allowed three goals on four shots in the game’s first nine minutes. After that, the club buckled down, but it was too little too late.
Antti Niemi was yanked after a poor performance in goal for the Sharks, and his status for Monday is up in the air. His performance in this series is definitely concerning. Niemi was a stud for San Jose after a slow start this season, but he’s been shaky at best since San Jose’s 3-2 win in Game 1. Since then, Niemi has allowed 14 goals in his past four starts, and he’s been yanked twice. Antero Niittymaki made 18 saves in relief of Niemi on Saturday and could get the call in Game 6.
Offensively, the club needs Ryane Clowe to keep up his superb play. The forward leads the Sharks with seven points in the series, including four goals. Joe Thornton, on the other hand, has been totally absent. He has just a goal and two assists in the series so far.
While Niemi is struggling for the Sharks, Los Angeles got a wonderful effort from Jonathan Quick in Game 5. He made all the difference in the world for L.A., making 51 saves on 52 shots. That was a major relief for Kings fans after Quick struggled in the previous two games, when he allowed a combined 12 goals.
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The Sharks have a 3-2 series lead, but they couldn’t close the deal in Game 5, losing 3-1. A brutal, lethargic start cost San Jose on Saturday. They allowed three goals on four shots in the game’s first nine minutes. After that, the club buckled down, but it was too little too late.
Antti Niemi was yanked after a poor performance in goal for the Sharks, and his status for Monday is up in the air. His performance in this series is definitely concerning. Niemi was a stud for San Jose after a slow start this season, but he’s been shaky at best since San Jose’s 3-2 win in Game 1. Since then, Niemi has allowed 14 goals in his past four starts, and he’s been yanked twice. Antero Niittymaki made 18 saves in relief of Niemi on Saturday and could get the call in Game 6.
Offensively, the club needs Ryane Clowe to keep up his superb play. The forward leads the Sharks with seven points in the series, including four goals. Joe Thornton, on the other hand, has been totally absent. He has just a goal and two assists in the series so far.
While Niemi is struggling for the Sharks, Los Angeles got a wonderful effort from Jonathan Quick in Game 5. He made all the difference in the world for L.A., making 51 saves on 52 shots. That was a major relief for Kings fans after Quick struggled in the previous two games, when he allowed a combined 12 goals.
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The Pittsburgh Penguins have faltered without their star players in the lineup, thanks to a Tampa Bay Lightning team that is starting to dominate at just the right time. Tonight the two clubs will square off in a winner takes all Game 7 to decide who gets a ticket for the second round of the post-season.
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After jumping out to a convincing 3-0 victory in the first game of the series, the Penguins have looked mortal. More specifically, goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury has looked mortal. In three Pittsburgh losses, Fleury alone has let in four goals. He was chased in Game 5 as the Bolts steamrolled their way to an 8-2 victory.
In the three Pittsburgh victories, however, Fleury allowed a combined four goals. Is it too late for him and them to channel the momentum that sent them out to an early three games to one lead? The Pens have 14/1 odds of winning the Stanley Cup, compared to Tampa Bay's 20/1.
According to Bodog, the Penguins are, in fact, listed as favorites, but only slightly. Bet on the NHL matchup with Bodog where the Pens are -130 favorites and the Bolts are +110 favorites. It's a slim line, but the evenly matched No. 4 and 5 seeds have proven that their on the same playing field.
Feel like playing more than just the winner? Bodog's extensive NHL playoff prop list will give you everything from individual player match ups to fight odds.
Much is on the line tonight in Pittsburgh, there's no reason you can't have as much excitement yourself.
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After jumping out to a convincing 3-0 victory in the first game of the series, the Penguins have looked mortal. More specifically, goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury has looked mortal. In three Pittsburgh losses, Fleury alone has let in four goals. He was chased in Game 5 as the Bolts steamrolled their way to an 8-2 victory.
In the three Pittsburgh victories, however, Fleury allowed a combined four goals. Is it too late for him and them to channel the momentum that sent them out to an early three games to one lead? The Pens have 14/1 odds of winning the Stanley Cup, compared to Tampa Bay's 20/1.
According to Bodog, the Penguins are, in fact, listed as favorites, but only slightly. Bet on the NHL matchup with Bodog where the Pens are -130 favorites and the Bolts are +110 favorites. It's a slim line, but the evenly matched No. 4 and 5 seeds have proven that their on the same playing field.
Feel like playing more than just the winner? Bodog's extensive NHL playoff prop list will give you everything from individual player match ups to fight odds.
Much is on the line tonight in Pittsburgh, there's no reason you can't have as much excitement yourself.
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The Montreal Canadiens managed to force a Game 7 with a victory at the Bell Centre last night, but the Habs will have to cut the celebration short in time for the series-deciding match on Boston Bruins home soil.
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The series, knotted at three games apiece after the Canadiens jumped out to a two-game lead, will finish as intensely as it started. It's not secret just how significant the Montreal-Boston rivalry is and has been since the days of the Original Six. Combine the tradition with the 2011 Max Pacioretty-Zdeno Chara incident and a spectacular playoff matchup, and the anticipation only grows.
The Bruins are listed as -170 favorites over the Habs, so bet on the NHL matchup with Bodog's online sportsbook now. The Habs, at +150 odds, are underdogs, but only paper. Just last spring Montreal made it as far as the Eastern Conference Finals, whereas the Bruins fell in the second-round at the hands of the Philadelphia Flyers.
If the Bruins lose, it will be their second consecutive time being upset by a significantly lower seed.
According to Bodog's online sportsbook, the Boston Bruins have 14/1 odds of winning the Stanley Cup, compared to Montreal's 28/1.
As is customary with classic, highly-anticipated matchups, Game 7 will feature an extensive prop list on which NHL bettors can play everything from individual player matchups to fight props and more. Bet on Game 7 props in the online sportsbook.
Expect Carey Price and Tim Thomas to be at their best tonight, each has shown more than enough talent to come away with a big win when it matters most.
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The series, knotted at three games apiece after the Canadiens jumped out to a two-game lead, will finish as intensely as it started. It's not secret just how significant the Montreal-Boston rivalry is and has been since the days of the Original Six. Combine the tradition with the 2011 Max Pacioretty-Zdeno Chara incident and a spectacular playoff matchup, and the anticipation only grows.
The Bruins are listed as -170 favorites over the Habs, so bet on the NHL matchup with Bodog's online sportsbook now. The Habs, at +150 odds, are underdogs, but only paper. Just last spring Montreal made it as far as the Eastern Conference Finals, whereas the Bruins fell in the second-round at the hands of the Philadelphia Flyers.
If the Bruins lose, it will be their second consecutive time being upset by a significantly lower seed.
According to Bodog's online sportsbook, the Boston Bruins have 14/1 odds of winning the Stanley Cup, compared to Montreal's 28/1.
As is customary with classic, highly-anticipated matchups, Game 7 will feature an extensive prop list on which NHL bettors can play everything from individual player matchups to fight props and more. Bet on Game 7 props in the online sportsbook.
Expect Carey Price and Tim Thomas to be at their best tonight, each has shown more than enough talent to come away with a big win when it matters most.
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The Detroit Red Wings look like they will be at full strength for the start of their Western Conference semifinal series against the San Jose Sharks on Friday night as wingers Johan Franzen and Henrik Zetterberg both should play for Detroit. Bet on the series with Bodog’s NHL odds.
Franzen hasn’t played since last Monday, which was Game 3 of the Phoenix series in which Detroit swept the Coyotes. He hurt his ankle when he slid into the boards as he was checked by the Coyotes' Shane Doan in Game 2. But Franzen has been skating with the team and says he is ready. Zetterberg missed the entire first round because of a sprained left knee but will go. Zetterberg's return gives the Wings more options, as they can play him with Pavel Datsyuk or have each star center his own line. Datsyuk was stellar against the Coyotes with six points and a plus-six rating.
“Absolutely,” Zetterberg said when asked if he will play. “It’s been a long time since I played a game, so it’s really exciting to get it going.”
The Wings, who will have had nine days off between games, and Sharks know each other well. This is their third postseason meeting since 2007 and their fifth overall — making Detroit the opponent San Jose has met in the playoffs more often than any other franchise. Last year the Sharks eliminated Detroit in this round in five games. During this regular season, the Sharks won three of four games against the Red Wings, including both matchups in Detroit. Antti Niemi was the goalie of record in each San Jose victory, and Dany Heatley led all scorers with four goals.
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Franzen hasn’t played since last Monday, which was Game 3 of the Phoenix series in which Detroit swept the Coyotes. He hurt his ankle when he slid into the boards as he was checked by the Coyotes' Shane Doan in Game 2. But Franzen has been skating with the team and says he is ready. Zetterberg missed the entire first round because of a sprained left knee but will go. Zetterberg's return gives the Wings more options, as they can play him with Pavel Datsyuk or have each star center his own line. Datsyuk was stellar against the Coyotes with six points and a plus-six rating.
“Absolutely,” Zetterberg said when asked if he will play. “It’s been a long time since I played a game, so it’s really exciting to get it going.”
The Wings, who will have had nine days off between games, and Sharks know each other well. This is their third postseason meeting since 2007 and their fifth overall — making Detroit the opponent San Jose has met in the playoffs more often than any other franchise. Last year the Sharks eliminated Detroit in this round in five games. During this regular season, the Sharks won three of four games against the Red Wings, including both matchups in Detroit. Antti Niemi was the goalie of record in each San Jose victory, and Dany Heatley led all scorers with four goals.
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Down 3-1 in their opening-round playoff series, the odds said the Tampa Bay Lightning weren’t supposed to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals but here the Bolts are tonight in facing the East top-seeded Capitals for Game 1. Washington is a -175 favorite on Bodog’s NHL odds.
Tampa Bay beat Pittsburgh 1-0 in the Steel City on Wednesday night to join just a handful of teams to rally from 3-1 series deficits. Dwayne Roloson, who didn’t even open the season with the Lightning, improved to an incredible 6-0 in his career in elimination games. It was only the sixth 1-0 Game 7 in NHL playoff history and the first since 2002. The Lightning also got good news on Thursday when winger Martin St. Louis was named one of three finalists for the Hart Trophy. St. Louis, the 2004 MVP, finished second in scoring with 99 points, getting 31 goals and a franchise record-tying 68 assists. He's also a finalist for the Lady Byng Trophy after amassing just 12 penalty minutes during his sixth 30-goal season.
The Capitals should be well rested as they finished off the New York Rangers in five games last Saturday. How rare was that? Since Bruce Boudreau became coach for Washington in 2007, the Caps had been in four playoff series and all four had gone seven games. The Capitals hadn't won a series in fewer than seven games since 1998.
Washington went 4-1-1 this season against Tampa Bay – in the two losses the Capitals were blanked. Alexander Semin had seven goals in four games against Tampa Bay, including a pair of hat tricks. In the most recent game against the clubs in March, he scored the tying goal on Roloson in a 2-1 shootout win. In two games started vs. the Lightning this season, Caps goalie Michal Neuvirth is 1-0 with a goals-against average of 3.00.
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Tampa Bay beat Pittsburgh 1-0 in the Steel City on Wednesday night to join just a handful of teams to rally from 3-1 series deficits. Dwayne Roloson, who didn’t even open the season with the Lightning, improved to an incredible 6-0 in his career in elimination games. It was only the sixth 1-0 Game 7 in NHL playoff history and the first since 2002. The Lightning also got good news on Thursday when winger Martin St. Louis was named one of three finalists for the Hart Trophy. St. Louis, the 2004 MVP, finished second in scoring with 99 points, getting 31 goals and a franchise record-tying 68 assists. He's also a finalist for the Lady Byng Trophy after amassing just 12 penalty minutes during his sixth 30-goal season.
The Capitals should be well rested as they finished off the New York Rangers in five games last Saturday. How rare was that? Since Bruce Boudreau became coach for Washington in 2007, the Caps had been in four playoff series and all four had gone seven games. The Capitals hadn't won a series in fewer than seven games since 1998.
Washington went 4-1-1 this season against Tampa Bay – in the two losses the Capitals were blanked. Alexander Semin had seven goals in four games against Tampa Bay, including a pair of hat tricks. In the most recent game against the clubs in March, he scored the tying goal on Roloson in a 2-1 shootout win. In two games started vs. the Lightning this season, Caps goalie Michal Neuvirth is 1-0 with a goals-against average of 3.00.
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The words Philadelphia Flyers are practically blasphemy in Boston and have been since last year’s Stanley Cup playoffs when the Flyers rallied not only from a 3-0 series deficit to stun the Bruins in seven games but even were down 3-0 in Boston for that Game 7. It was simply an epic collapse for the B’s as they became just the third team to blow a 3-0 series lead in NHL history. Starting Saturday, in Philadelphia Boston gets a chance for payback – bet on this series with Bodog’s NHL odds.
This time it’s the Flyers with home-ice advantage. Both Philly and Boston were stretched to Game 7s in their first-round series earlier this week. The Flyers have the advantage of an extra day off after they beat Buffalo on Tuesday followed by Boston’s overtime win over Montreal on Wednesday. That was the first time in 26 tries, by the way, that the Bruins won a series after trailing 2-0. And they did so without scoring a single power-play goal in the series – that won’t work against the deep Flyers.
The big injury news hers is that of the Flyers’ Jeff Carter, who led the team with 36 goals during the season. He missed the final three games of the Buffalo series but is expected back for this series – although Game 1 is in question. The Flyers got back star defenseman Chris Pronger for the final two games vs. Buffalo after he had been out since mid-March with a broken hand so he’s fine to go.
In net, the Bruins have no questions as they will start Tim Thomas, who went 3-1 with a 1.96 GAA during the regular season vs. the Flyers. Philadelphia started three goalies in the Sabres series but is expected to go with Brian Boucher in Game 1 after he won Game 7 vs. Buffalo as the starter. He was 1-2 with 2.95 GAA vs. the Bruins in the regular season.
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This time it’s the Flyers with home-ice advantage. Both Philly and Boston were stretched to Game 7s in their first-round series earlier this week. The Flyers have the advantage of an extra day off after they beat Buffalo on Tuesday followed by Boston’s overtime win over Montreal on Wednesday. That was the first time in 26 tries, by the way, that the Bruins won a series after trailing 2-0. And they did so without scoring a single power-play goal in the series – that won’t work against the deep Flyers.
The big injury news hers is that of the Flyers’ Jeff Carter, who led the team with 36 goals during the season. He missed the final three games of the Buffalo series but is expected back for this series – although Game 1 is in question. The Flyers got back star defenseman Chris Pronger for the final two games vs. Buffalo after he had been out since mid-March with a broken hand so he’s fine to go.
In net, the Bruins have no questions as they will start Tim Thomas, who went 3-1 with a 1.96 GAA during the regular season vs. the Flyers. Philadelphia started three goalies in the Sabres series but is expected to go with Brian Boucher in Game 1 after he won Game 7 vs. Buffalo as the starter. He was 1-2 with 2.95 GAA vs. the Bruins in the regular season.
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There are unlikely playoff heroes and then there is San Jose’s Benn Ferriero. I guarantee most Sharks fans didn’t know who he was before Friday’s Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Detroit Red Wings, but now Ferriero is a household name in San Jose. Thanks to him the Sharks try for a 2-0 series lead on Detroit in Sunday’s Game 2 – bet on it with Bodog’s NHL odds.
San Jose won an exciting Game 1 2-1 in overtime. Ferriero scored 7:03 into the extra period on a deflected goal. Oh, and it happened to be his 24th birthday. Ferriero's shot hit off Detroit defenseman Brad Stuart's stick and got past Jimmy Howard for the game-winner just seconds after the Red Wings had killed off a four-minute penalty. Ferriero has just seven goals in 57 career regular-season games and played only once in the NHL after Feb. 5 this season. This was his first career playoff game. Ferriero is the first player to score an overtime goal in his playoff debut since another Shark, Niko Dimitrakos, against St. Louis on April 8, 2004. Ferriero became the first NHL player ever to score a playoff overtime goal on his birthday.
It was San Jose’s fourth win in five games vs. Detroit this season and the Sharks’ fourth straight overtime win in these playoffs, and their fifth one-goal victory over the Wings in the past two playoffs. The Sharks deserved the Game 1 win, outshooting Detroit 46-25 (7-1 in overtime). The Wings stayed in the game thanks to stellar goaltending from Howard. The Wings killed 5-of-6 San Jose power plays and it was largely due to Howard.
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San Jose won an exciting Game 1 2-1 in overtime. Ferriero scored 7:03 into the extra period on a deflected goal. Oh, and it happened to be his 24th birthday. Ferriero's shot hit off Detroit defenseman Brad Stuart's stick and got past Jimmy Howard for the game-winner just seconds after the Red Wings had killed off a four-minute penalty. Ferriero has just seven goals in 57 career regular-season games and played only once in the NHL after Feb. 5 this season. This was his first career playoff game. Ferriero is the first player to score an overtime goal in his playoff debut since another Shark, Niko Dimitrakos, against St. Louis on April 8, 2004. Ferriero became the first NHL player ever to score a playoff overtime goal on his birthday.
It was San Jose’s fourth win in five games vs. Detroit this season and the Sharks’ fourth straight overtime win in these playoffs, and their fifth one-goal victory over the Wings in the past two playoffs. The Sharks deserved the Game 1 win, outshooting Detroit 46-25 (7-1 in overtime). The Wings stayed in the game thanks to stellar goaltending from Howard. The Wings killed 5-of-6 San Jose power plays and it was largely due to Howard.
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After leading the Eastern Conference for most of the regular season, the Philadelphia Flyers looked like a solid bet to win the Stanley Cup this season. But once again their goaltending has melted down, causing many NHL betting fans to leap from the bandwagon. Game 2 of Philly’s first-round series with the Boston Bruins gets underway Monday.
Game 1 was nothing short of a nightmare for Philly fans. The Flyers were absolutely crushed 7-3, and once again the club was forced to pull its goalie—a sight becoming way too familiar in the City of Brotherly Love.
Brian Boucher got the start in Game 1 after making 26 saves in Philadelphia’s Game 7 win over the Buffalo Sabers. That nice effort didn’t carry over, as Boucher was lit up for five goals on just 23 shots before getting yanked late in the second period. The Flyers have now cycled through three goalies in these playoffs. Head coach Peter Laviolette has already pulled his starting goalie four times through eight playoff games—a mind-boggling number.
Each time Laviolette has yanked his netminder, he’s turned to someone else in the following game. Boucher and his teammates, however, expect Boucher to get the nod on Monday. Either way, it’s hard to imagine Philly getting a difference-making performance—at this point, it would take just an average evening from any one of its goalies.
In stark contrast, Tim Thomas has been a difference maker for Boston. He has a 2.34 goals-against average and .920 save percentage in the playoffs—which are “bad” numbers compared to his regular season (a 2.00 goals-against average and NHL-record .938 save percentage). Philadelphia’s goalies, meanwhile, have combined for a 3.09 goals-against average and .898 save percentage. Thomas is as clutch as they come, as he backstopped Boston to three overtime wins in the first-round series against Montreal.
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Game 1 was nothing short of a nightmare for Philly fans. The Flyers were absolutely crushed 7-3, and once again the club was forced to pull its goalie—a sight becoming way too familiar in the City of Brotherly Love.
Brian Boucher got the start in Game 1 after making 26 saves in Philadelphia’s Game 7 win over the Buffalo Sabers. That nice effort didn’t carry over, as Boucher was lit up for five goals on just 23 shots before getting yanked late in the second period. The Flyers have now cycled through three goalies in these playoffs. Head coach Peter Laviolette has already pulled his starting goalie four times through eight playoff games—a mind-boggling number.
Each time Laviolette has yanked his netminder, he’s turned to someone else in the following game. Boucher and his teammates, however, expect Boucher to get the nod on Monday. Either way, it’s hard to imagine Philly getting a difference-making performance—at this point, it would take just an average evening from any one of its goalies.
In stark contrast, Tim Thomas has been a difference maker for Boston. He has a 2.34 goals-against average and .920 save percentage in the playoffs—which are “bad” numbers compared to his regular season (a 2.00 goals-against average and NHL-record .938 save percentage). Philadelphia’s goalies, meanwhile, have combined for a 3.09 goals-against average and .898 save percentage. Thomas is as clutch as they come, as he backstopped Boston to three overtime wins in the first-round series against Montreal.
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Mike Fisher, acquired at the trade deadline from Ottawa, was the star for Nashville in Game 1 with two goals and an assist, and Pekka Rinne made 27 saves as the Predators won a road opener in the playoffs for the second year in a row. Nashville has yet to win a playoff series as the team has been knocked out in the first round all five times it has made the postseason. Fisher's second goal, on a wrist shot through traffic, prompted Anaheim coach Randy Carlyle to pull former Nashville goalie Dan Ellis with 19:04 to play. And it appears Ellis, who allowed the four goals on 24 shots, will stay on the bench.
Ray Emery missed the final two regular-season games with a lower-body injury but was well enough to replace Ellis on Wednesday and was solid in mop-up duty. Carlysle all but said that Emery would start assuming he gets through Friday’s morning skate at 100 percent health. Emery wasn’t even in the NHL as late as February. Friday would be his first playoff start since being in net for Ottawa when the Senators lost to the Ducks in the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals.
Anaheim's Corey Perry, who led the NHL in goals, finished the game minus-three with five shots. It was just the second time in the past 13 game he didn’t record a point. The Ducks hadn't scored fewer than two goals in their last 16 games.
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