San Jose and Pittsburgh Advance; Join Flyers in Semi-Finals

The San Jose Sharks overcame Dan Boyle’s colossal mistake in game three to advance into the Western Conference semifinals. During the final three games of the series the Sharks outscored the Colorado Avalanche 12-3. Joe Pavelski led the Sharks with five goals in the series, including two game-winners. "We realized that nothing comes easy after last year," Pavelski said.

The Sharks were on the verge of another disappointing playoff campaign before goaltender Evgeni Nabokov played lights-out during game four with 33 saves in a 2-1 overtime win. The game was highlighted by Dan Boyle who netted the game winner in overtime. It was sweet redemption for Boyle who in game three scored on his own team to win the game in overtime for the Avalanche.

Finally, what we have learned from this series? San Jose can battle adversity and overcome tough losses meaning they have the ability to go deep into the playoffs.

The defending Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins finished off the Ottawa Senators in overtime to advance in six games next round. Pittsburgh’s experience and offense was no match for Ottawa as the series progressed. Pascal Dupuis scored his first goal in the series in overtime helping his club advance. Sidney Crosby leads the NHL in points during the playoffs with 14 (5 g, 9 a).

I did predict the games for each series, check out how I did.
Western Conference Predictions:
Eastern Conference Predictions:

Crosby, Penguins Back on Track

Crosby helps Pens get back on track, 2-1 series lead.



After the Ottawa Senators spoiled a much-anticipated debut on home ice for the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Pens have battled back and won the past two games of the series. Penguins captain Sidney Crosby scored the game-winning goal in game three; to give the Pens the 2-1 series lead.

Pittsburgh seemed to settle down and play the brand of hockey that many of us are used to seeing during game three, highlighted by Crosby’s third straight multi-point effort. In fact, Crosby currently has the most points of any player in the playoffs with seven (two goals and five assists).

"It's impossible to stop him, especially every night," Senators coach Cory Clouston said about Crosby, after Ottawa’s 5-4 win in game one. "He was the best player on the ice and he showed what he is able to do. When they needed a goal, he made a big play.” If the Senators have any chance at brining this series back to Ottawa after game four, they will have to try to eliminate Crosby’s second chance opportunities.

To add insult to injury the Senators will be without two of their premier forwards Alex Kovalev and Milan Michalek. Kovalev and Michalek tore their ACL’s during Ottawa’s 5-4 win in game one. Oh, did I forget to mention defenseman Filip Kuba will also be out for the remainder of the playoffs? Yikes!

"We have to pull together right now," Senators right-winger Daniel Alfredsson said. "It helps that we're so comfortable with our system.” They will have to get better production out of goaltender Brian Elliot who has looked shaky during the series posting a 3.39 gaa and an atrocious .868 save percentage. Many predicted the Penguins to falter in the playoffs including myself, however one thing we did not take into account for would be injuries. Game four is scheduled for Tuesday April 20 at 7 P.M.