Old Rivals The New York Rangers didn’t face Detroit last season as the Red Wings paved their path to a fourth Stanley Cup since 1996-97.
Author: Mark
Opposite Strenghs The Washington Capitals used a dynamic offense to make their first playoff appearance in four years last season, while the New Jersey Devils rode one of the NHL’s best defenses to their 11th consecutive postseason.
Not What Expected Entering the season as a No. 1 goaltender for the first time, Peter Budaj has gotten off to a nightmarish start. Being the starter is nothing new to Marty Turco, but things haven’t gone much better for him.
Huricanes Head West It’s too early to have made much impact in the standings, but Carolina Hurricanes coach Peter Laviolette knows his team can’t afford to keep spending vital minutes in the penalty box.
Opposite Directions When the season began, there seemed little reason to doubt that the San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks would be battling for the Pacific Division title. Instead, they appear to be headed in opposite directions.
Hometown Favorite Todd Bertuzzi is a polarizing figure in the NHL, and his offseason signing by the Calgary Flames wasn’t universally applauded by the hometown fans. The 13-year veteran, however, is winning the Flames’ faithful over with a strong start for his new team.
Old Rivals After falling short in their attempt to make history, the New York Rangers will face a Toronto Maple Leafs team on Friday that has put together disappointing efforts in its last two games.
One Win Away No longer major league baseball’s doormats, the Tampa Bay Rays are one win from the World Series.
Red Wings In Form After spending a day off at the White House, the Detroit Red Wings can re-focus on defending the Stanley Cup championship that earned them that visit.
Wild Look Strong Though the Minnesota Wild cut ties with several key players during the offseason, they don’t appear to be missing them much so far.