1. There are a lot of Nervous Nellies out there worried about mean, tough and nasty postseason hockey. I’ve got news for them; that’s what playoff hockey is all about.
2. The hissing and moaning over what are and are not “dirty hits” is as old as the NHL. Repeat: THIS IS WHAT PLAYOFF HOCKEY IS ALL ABOUT.
3. About the dumbest thing I’ve seen on the internet is some schlemeel writing that Canadian hockey announcers put more emotion into their broadcasts than their American counterparts.
Playoff Notes For Rangers Fans And Others1. When it comes to a pair of teams being even in a series the Oilers-Kings battle sure fills the bill. Edmonton’s late comeback and OT winner last night could be a major demoralizer for LA.
4. By The Maven’s standards, the Capitals should get it over with tonight and simply crush the Canadiens.
5. If the Caps fail today, I’ll begin worrying about the Habs actually winning the series.
6. Anyone surprised at the Stars’ success so far should check The Hockey News’ Yearbook. Dallas is picked to win The Stanley Cup – ahem, by beating New Jersey.
7. The injury-wracked Devils will be fortunate to stay alive tonight in Raleigh. After all, the Canes are kings of home ice advantage.
8. I’m rooting very-very-very hard for a Senators win over the Leafs tonight. For that to happen, Linus Ullmark must come up bigger in goal. Much bigger!
9. For my money, the most interesting series pits the upstart Blues against Chevy’s Jets. You have to love Jim Montgomery’s coaching except that The Maven is at a loss to define how JM makes it work.
10. That said, I have to root for Winnipeg. Hey, the Jets have never won Stanley!
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