(Video) CBC HNIC Stanley cup Playoffs Tribute 2013

Just like that, the 2013 season is over. This is a pretty good video and I am sad that I don't get CBC anymore, since I switched over to DirecTV. None the less, this is a very good video by CBC's Hockey Night in Canada.

Steve Rosenbloom on the Boychuk hit

All right! Interesting perspective, no mystery that the NHL isn’t consistent in their call of the head shots, it’s well documented. Here’s my question; why is it, that players like Dustin Brown of the L.A. Kings has been able to get away with many of the same kind of hits for so long? Most of them have been deemed hockey hits, just like the hit that Brown put on Toews in the Western Conference Finals.

Steve Rosenbloom, The RosenBlog – Boston defenseman Johnny Boychuk went after Jonathan Toews' head with his forearm in the second period of Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final on Saturday night. Toews didn’t play a shift in the third period. Game over. Game 6 over for Boychuk.

Just as a penalty in the first period is supposed to be a penalty in the third period, then a head-hunting move in Game 5 of the final ought to warrant a suspension the way it does in Game 1 of the regular season.

It wouldn't matter if it was Viktor Stalberg instead of Toews, but I'd bet if it was done to Sidney Crosby, then Boychuk would've been suspended between periods.

The product the NHL is selling is not Boychuk’s act. It is selling exceptionally skilled players. It is selling stars such as Toews and Crosby.

Like Crosby, Toews is part of the Hart Trophy conversation. At least he is when Eastern writers stay up late to watch.

Also like Crosby, Toews is a repeated concussion victim whose head is targeted continually.

The league cannot afford these kinds of acts. The Hawks certainly can’t.

I have always said, “that the NHL has two sets of rules. One for goon’s and fourth line players and one for super stars.” I don't know why the NHL didn't take action against Boychuk or why they pick and choose which hits to discipline. I don’t know how anyone can make rhyme or reason out of the NHL’s Department of Player Safety’s rulings anymore. They're allover the place.

I like everyone else is confused, as a Bruins fan, I guess I am kind of relieved that Boychuk can play, but know he may have gotten away with one, but so have a lot of other players, as well. It sounds like both Toews and Bergy are going to play in game six tonight.

The emerging theme; the officiating is not good during the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs

I used to follow Damien Cox, but I couldn’t take all of his constant political rants in my twitter feed anymore. This article is worth a look because it does provoke thought. Here’s the problem. There’s an emerging theme coming out of this season’s 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The officiating has been poor, but in defense of the officials, the officiating has been poor all season long. Not just during the playoffs. That being said, the officiating is still better in the NHL game than it is in college game. Sidney Crosby, Gary Bettman’s favorite player was whining about the officiating after game one between the Boston Bruins and the Pittsburgh Penguins. I didn’t hear many whining when Chicago Blackhawks forward Jonathan Toews was being mugged by the Detroit Red Wings.

Damien Cox, The Spin – For sure in Chicago and Boston, and certainly throughout Canada, and beyond, well, we'll see. In the world of the Bettman administration, this Stanley Cup final would only be better if all seven games were scheduled for Wrigley and Fenway.

Otherwise, two great American sports cities, and two terrific hockey towns, suggest this is some kind of peculiar reward from the hockey gods to the NHL owners and players after the grinding 113-day lockout that produced something for both side and nothing for the fans.

But the fact that a lot of people will be watching also means is that if the NHL were of such a mind, a correction right now would be most helpful.

That is, after allowing the rulebook to be stretched, perverted and torn to shreds over three rounds, now would be a good time to re-establish a little structure.

Hell, if they can change the standard halfway through the season and then again the playoffs, they can change it back again.

And let's face it, things have become rather ridiculous. Sure, the spirit of "letting them play" has merit within the sometimes dubious history of the game, but beyond that, allowing blatant fouls to go uncalled at key points of hockey games has turned these playoffs into a bit of a joke.

What do you think? Has the officiating in the NHL a problem during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Is there going to be a change how the games are called during the Stanley Cup Playoffs going forward?

L.A. Kings and Chicago Blackhawks schedule (Greene vs. Toews)

Game 1: Saturday, June 1 - L.A. at Chicago 4:00 p.m. NBCSN

Game2: Sunday, June 2 - L.A. at Chicago 7:00 p.m. NBCSN

Game 3: Tuesday, June 4 - Chicago at L.A. 8:00 p.m. NBCSN

Game 4: Thursday, June 6 - Chicago at L.A. 8:00 p.m. NBCSN

Game 5: Saturday, June 8 - L.A. at Chicago 7:00 p.m. NBC

Game 6: Monday, June 10 - Chicago at L.A. 8:00 p.m. NBCSN

Game 7: Wednesday, June 12 - L.A. at Chicago TBD NBCSN  

Final Numbers Second Round: Former NCAA Hockey Players

Here is the list of NHL hockey players that are currently playing in the second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs that have played college hockey (Division I & III).

The players are listed by their NHL team. These are players that have played in at least “one” Stanley Cup Playoff game during in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs. I have also listed their point totals as well.

This list doesn’t include players from teams that have been eliminated. The list doesn’t include players that are currently injured, or on their teams roster, but haven’t played in the Stanley Cup Playoff games yet.  I will update the list as much as I can.

Final points lead after the second round

The second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs is in the books. Former Wisconsin Badgers and current San Jose Sharks forward Joe Pavelski (4g-8a—12pts) has retained his lead as the points leader, but his team was eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs by the defending Stanley Cup Champions, so there will be a new points leaders in the next round.

Former Catamount’s and current Chicago Blackhawk forward Patrick Sharp (7g-4a—11pts) is alone in second place.

Here’s how the rest of the top six places for former college hockey players; currently playing in the Stanley Cup playoffs shakes out.

In third place, there is a four way tie. The Pittsburgh Penguins have a pair of former college hockey players, former Gopher defenseman Paul Martin (2g-7a—9pts) is tied with his teammate former Ferris State Bulldog forward Chris Kunitz (4g-5a—9pts). Also, Ottawa Senators and former Wisconsin Badgers forward Kyle Turris (6g-3a—9pts) is “currently” tied for third place along with former Michigan State Spartan and current Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith (1g-8a—9pts). Turris’ spot in the top three is temporary, because his season is over; the Senators were eliminated by the top seeded Pittsburgh Penguins this past week four games to one.  

Leader Board (national rank in parentheses)

1. (7) Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 11GP, (4g-8a—12pts)

2. (10) Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 12GP, (7g-4a—11pts)

3. (21) Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 11GP, (2g-7a—9pts)

3.  (21) Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 11GP, (4g-5a—9pts)

3. (21) Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 10GP, (6g-3a—9pts)

3. (21) Duncan Keith, D, Michigan State, 12GP, (1g-8a—9pts)

Badgers king in this year’s 2013 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The Wisconsin Badgers are well represented in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs; if my math is correct they have six players that are still currently playing in the second round of the SCP.

 If I have forgotten a player on this list, feel free to drop me a line at thegoon48@gra.midco.net

 Boston Bruins (3)

Torey Krug, D, Michigan State, 5GP, (4g-1a—5pts)

Matt Bartkowski, D, Ohio State, 7GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Richard Peverley, F, St. Lawrence University, 11GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

 Chicago Blackhawks (6)

Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 12GP, (7g-4a—11pts)

Duncan Keith, D, Michigan State, 12GP, (1g-8a—9pts)

Jonathon Toews, F, North Dakota, 12GP, (1g-5a—6pts)

Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota, 12GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Victor Stalberg, F, Vermont, 10GP, (0G-2A—2pts)

Brandon Bollig, F, St. Lawrence, 5GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Detroit Red Wings (6) (Eliminated by the Chicago Blackhawks 4-3)

Gustav Nyquist, F, Maine, 14GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Brendan Smith, F, Wisconsin, 14GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Justin Abdelkader, F, Michigan State, 12GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Patrick Eaves, F, Boston College, 13GP, (1g-2a—3pts)

Danny Dekeyser, D, Western Michigan, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jimmy Howard, G, Maine, 7-7, .924 SV%, 2.44 GAA

 LA Kings (5)

Dustin Penner, F, Maine, 13GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Alec Martinez, D, Miami, 6Gp, (0g-2a—2pts)

Rob Scuderi, D, Boston College, 13GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Matt Greene, D, North Dakota, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Jonathan Quick, UMass, 13GP, 8-5, .948 SV% 1.50 GAA

 New York Rangers (6) (Eliminated by the Boston Bruins 4-1)

Carl Hagelin, F, Michigan, 12GP, (3g-3a—6pts)

Brian Boyle, F, Boston College, 11GP, (3g-2a—5pts)

Derek Stepan, F, Wisconsin, 12GP, (4g-1a—5pts)

Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin, 10GP, (1g-3a—4pts)

Chris Kreider, F, Boston College, 8GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Darroll Powe, F, Princeton, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Ottawa Senators (6) (Eliminated by the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-1)

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 10GP, (6g-3a—9pts)

Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 10GP, (1g-6a—7pts)

Cory Conacher, F, Canisius College 8GP, (3g-0a—3pts)

Colin Greening, F, Cornell, 10GP, (3g-1a—4pts)  

Eric Gryba, D, Boston University, 4Gp, (0g-0a—0pts)

Patrick Wiercioch, D, Denver, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Pittsburgh Penguins (9)

Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 11GP, (2g-7a—9pts)

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 11GP, (4g-5a—9pts)

Douglas Murray, D, Cornell, 11GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Mark Eaton, D, Notre Dame, 7GP, (0g-3a—3pts)

Matt Niskanen, D, Duluth, 11GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Brooks Orpik, D, Boston College, 8GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Craig Adams, F, Harvard, 11GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tanner Glass, F, Dartmouth, 5GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Beau Bennett, F, Denver, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

San Jose Sharks (8) (Eliminated by the San Jose Sharks 4-3)

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 11GP, (4g-8a—12pts)

Dan Boyle, D, Miami, 11GP, (3g-5a—8pts)

Tommy Wingels, F, Miami, 11GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

T.J. Galiardi, F, Dartmouth, 11GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Justin Braun, D, UMass, 11GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Irwin, D, UMass, 11GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tim Kennedy, F, Michigan State, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Adam Burish, F, Wisconsin, 6GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Cross-posted at the Hockey Writers Combine.  

Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/21/2013)

Here is the list of NHL hockey players that are currently playing in the second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs that have played college hockey (Division I & III).

The players are listed by their NHL team. These are players that have played in at least “one” Stanley Cup Playoff game during in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs. I have also listed their point totals as well.

 This list doesn’t include players from teams that have been eliminated. The list doesn’t include players that are currently injured, or on their teams roster, but haven’t played in the Stanley Cup Playoff games yet.  I will update the list as much as I can.

 Points Lead changes hands

 Former Vermont Catamout forward Patrick Sharp leads all former college hockey players with (6g-4a—10pts). In second place, Wisconsin Badgers forward Joe Pavelski, (4g-5a—9pts) is tied with former Gopher defenseman Paul Martin (2g-7a—9pts). In fourth place former Ferris State forward Chris Kunitz, (3g-4a—7pts) is tied with Notre Dame forward Erik Condra (1g-6a—7pts).

 The Wisconsin Badgers are well represented in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs; if my math is correct they have six players that are still currently playing in the second round of the SCP.

 If I have forgotten a player on this list feel free to drop me a line at hegoon48@gra.midco.net

 Boston Bruins (3)

Torey Krug, D, Michigan State, 2GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Matt Bartkowski, D, Ohio State, 4GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Richard Peverley, F, St. Lawrence University, 8GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

 Chicago Blackhawks (6)

Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 8GP, (6g-4a—10pts)

Duncan Keith, D, Michigan State, 8GP, (1g-5a—6pts)

Jonathon Toews, F, North Dakota, 8GP, (0g-3a—3pts)

Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota, 8GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Victor Stalberg, F, Vermont, 6GP, (0G-1A—1pts)

Brandon Bollig, F, St. Lawrence, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

 Detroit Red Wings (6)

Gustav Nyquist, F, Maine, 10GP, (2g-2a—4pts)

Brendan Smith, F, Wisconsin, 10GP, (2g-2a—4pts)

Justin Abdelkader, F, Michigan State, 8GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Patrick Eaves, F, Boston College, 9GP, (0g-2a—1pts)

Danny Dekeyser, D, Western Michigan, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jimmy Howard, G, Maine, 6-4, .923 SV%, 2.43 GAA

 LA Kings (4)

Dustin Penner, F, Maine, 9GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Alec Martinez, D, Miami, 9Gp, (0g-2a—2tps)

Rob Scuderi, D, Boston College, 9GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Jonathan Quick, UMass, 8GP, 6-3, .947 SV% 1.60 GAA

New York Rangers (6)

Carl Hagelin, F, Michigan, 9GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Brian Boyle, F, Boston College, 8GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Derek Stepan, F, Wisconsin, 9GP, (3g-0a—2pts)

Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin, 9GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Chris Kreider, F, Boston College, 5GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Darroll Powe, F, Princeton, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Ottawa Senators (6)

Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 8GP, (1g-6a—7pts)

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 8GP, (4g-2a—6pts)

Cory Conacher, F, Canisius College 7GP, (3g-0a—3pts)

Colin Greening, F, Cornell, 8GP, (3g-0a—3pts)  

Eric Gryba, D, Boston University, 4Gp, (0g-0a—0pts)

Patrick Wiercioch, D, Denver, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

 Pittsburgh Penguins (9)

Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 9GP, (2g-7a—9pts)

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 9GP, (3g-5a—8pts)

Douglas Murray, D, Cornell, 9GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Mark Eaton, D, Notre Dame, 5GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Matt Niskanen, D, Duluth, 9GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Craig Adams, F, Harvard, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tanner Glass, F, Dartmouth, 5GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Beau Bennett, F, Denver, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Brooks Orpik, D, Boston College, 6GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

San Jose Sharks (8)

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 7GP, (4g-5a—9pts)

Dan Boyle, D, Miami, 7GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Tommy Wingels, F, Miami, 7GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Justin Braun, D, UMass, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Irwin, D, UMass, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tim Kennedy, F, Michigan State, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Adam Burish, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

T.J. Galiardi, F, Dartmouth, 7GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Cross-posted @ the Hockey Writers Combine.

EDIT: Sharks' Torres Scheduled for hearing for hit on Kings' Jarrett Stoll

EDIT: I don't know... Raffi Torres doesn't leave his feet, he keeps his elbow in and he attempts to hit him in the torso, I think this call is based on reputation. Just for the record, I am not a Sharks fan by any stretch, I think the Chris Kelly elbow on James van Riemsdyk was worse and there wasn't a suspension for that hit. I am not saying that Torres doesn't deserve a suspension, but in this case I think the league is piling on and is going to make an example out of Torres like they did with Matt Cooke.

@goon48 25 games last yr for hit on hossa - same hit. he has a request for an in person hearing. minimum 5 games as such.
— HiMaui (@HiMaui) May 15, 2013

Based on his past history, you have to guess this hearing won’t end well for Sharks' forward Raffi Torres. In looking at the hit, while it's a hit to the head, and I can see a game or two suspension for this hit, I have seen worse hits not get scrutiny, this past season. I don't think that this hit is worthy of a big-time suspension. The fact that the hearing is in-person means that the suspension could be five game suspenior longer for this hit.

TSN.CA STAFF -- San Jose Sharks forward Raffi Torres is scheduled for a disciplinary hearing for his hit on Jarret Stoll of the Los Angeles Kings in Game 1 on Tuesday.

The league has offered an in-person hearing, meaning Torres could be suspended for five or more games.

Just for the record, I am no way an apologist for Raffi Torres, but I at like to see the Wheel of Justice spin equally for all involved. I am wondering what others think of this hit. Is the league going to throw the book at Torres?

Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/15/2013)

Here is the list of NHL hockey players that are currently playing in the second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs that have played college hockey (Division I & III).

The players are listed by their NHL team. These are players that have played in at least “one” Stanley Cup Playoff game during in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs. I have also listed their point totals as well. 

For instance, defenseman Matt Greene from L.A. is a former UND hockey player but is currently injuried and has not played a single during the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs. As soon as he plays, he will be added to the list.

This list doesn’t include players from teams that have been eliminated. The list doesn’t include players that are currently injured, that are on their teams roster, but haven’t played at least one Stanley Cup Playoff games yet.  I will update the list as much as I can.

Former Wisconsin Badgers forward Joe Pavelski, leads all former college hockey players with (4g-4a—8pts).In second place are former Ferris State forward Chris Kunitz, (3g-4a—7pts) and former Gopher defenseman Paul Martin (2g-5a—7pts).

Boston Bruins

Richard Peverley, F, St. Lawrence University, 5 GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Matt Bartkowski, D, Ohio State, 2GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Chicago Blackhawks

Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 5GP, (5g-1a—6pts)

Duncan Keith, D, Michigan State, 5GP, (1g-4a—5pts)

Jonathon Toews,F,  North Dakota, 5GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Victor Stalberg, F, Vermont, 5GP, (0G-1A—1pts)

Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota, 5GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Brandon Bollig, F, St. Lawrence, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Detroit Red Wings

Brendan Smith, F, Wisconsin, 7GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Gustav Nyquist, F, Maine, 7GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Patrick Eaves, F, Boston College, 6GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Justin Abdelkader, F, Michigan State, 5GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Danny Dekeyser, D, Western Michigan, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jimmy Howard, G, Maine, 4-3, .911 SV%, 2.65 GAA

LA Kings

Alec Martinez, D, Miami, 5Gp, (0g-2a—2tps)

Dustin Penner, F, Maine, 5GP, (2g-0a—2pts)

Rob Scuderi, D, Boston College, 7GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Jonathan Quick, UMass, 6GP, 5-2, .953 SV% 1.36 GAA

New York Rangers

Carl Hagelin, F, Michigan, 7GP, (2g-2a—4pts)

Brian Boyle, F, Boston College, 6GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Derek Stepan, F, Wisconsin, 7GP, (2g-0a—2pts)

Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Darroll Powe, F, Princeton, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Chris Kreider, F, Boston College, 3 GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Ottawa Senators

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 6 GP, (3g-2a—5pts)

Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 6GP, (1g-4a—5pts)

Cory Conacher, F, Canisius College 5GP, (3g-0a—3pts)

Eric Gryba, D, Boston University, 4Gp, (0g-0a—0pts)

Patrick Wiercioch, D, Denver, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Pittsburgh Penguins

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 7Gp, (3g-4a—7pts)

Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 7GP, (2g-5a—7pts)

Mark Eaton, D, Notre Dame, 4GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Douglas Murray, D, Cornell, 7GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Craig Adams, F, Harvard, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tanner Glass, F, Dartmouth, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Beau Bennett, F, Denver, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Matt Niskanen, D, Duluth, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Brooks Orpik, D, Boston College, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

San Jose Sharks

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 5GP, (4g-4a—8pts)

Dan Boyle, D, Miami, 5GP, (1g-3a—4pts)

Tommy Wingels, F, Miami, 5GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Justin Braun, D, UMass, 5GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Irwin, D, UMass, 5GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tim Kennedy, F, Michigan State, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Adam Burish, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

T.J. Galiardi, F, Dartmouth, 5GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Cross Posted at the Hockey Writers Combine.

Eastern Conference Semifinals: BOSTON VS. NEW YORK SCHEDULE

GAME 1: AT BOS THU MAY 16, 6:30 PM CT,  NBCSN

GAME 2: AT BOS SUN MAY 19, 200 PM CT, NBC

GAME 3: AT NYR TUE MAY 21, 6:30 PM CT, NBCSN

GAME 4: AT NYR THU MAY 23, 6:00 PM CT, CNBC

GAME 5: AT BOS SAT MAY 25, TBD ›

GAME 6: AT NYR MON MAY 27, TBD ›

GAME 7: AT BOS WED MAY 29, TBD 

Is there another Boston Collapse coming?

I have a bad feeling. I’ve seen this act before. Back in the 2010 SCP when the Boston Bruins were up 3-1 on the Philadelphia Flyers only to lose three games in a row and the series 4-3.

Steve Simmons, Toronto Sun – But everything is tilting in their direction.

All the momentum - if there is such a thing at playoff time - favours the Leafs.

All the pressure - if that matters in a Game 7 of a series played at this high a level, this intense a matchup, this much coaching acumen and excellent goaltending from both teams when it’s matterd most - is on the Bruins.

They were expected to win this series.

They were predicted to win this series.

Last night, the Boston Bruins looked gassed and out of breath. Moving forward, I have to think that if the Bruins lose this series to the Toronto Maple Leafs, there are going to be changes in Boston, starting with the head coach Claude Julien. Losing this series to the Toronto Maple Leafs is unacceptable.

Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs

Here is the list of NHL hockey players that are currently playing in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs that have played college hockey (Division I & III).

The players are listed by their NHL team. These are players that have played in at least “one” Stanley Cup Playoff game during in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs. I have also listed their point totals as well.

This list doesn’t include players that are currently injured or that on their teams roster, but haven’t played at least one Stanley Cup Playoff games yet.  I will update the list weekly.

Anaheim Ducks

Nick Bonino, F, Boston University, 4 GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Kyle Palmieri, F, Notre Dame, 4 GP, (1g-2a—3pts)

Andrew Cogliano, F, University of Michigan, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Ben Lovejoy, D, Dartmouth, 4 GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

David Steckel, F, Ohio State, 4 GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Daniel Winnik, F, New Hampshire, 4 GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Boston Bruins

Richard Peverley, F, St. Lawrence University, 2 GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Chicago Blackhawks

Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 4GP, (4g-1a—5pts)

Duncan Keith, D, Michigan State, 4GP, (1g-2a—3pts)

Victor Stalberg, F, Vermont, 4GP, (0G-1A—1pts)

Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Jonathon Toews,F,  North Dakota, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Brandon Bollig, F, St. Lawrence, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Detroit Red Wings

Brendan Smith, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Gustav Nyquist, F, Maine, 4GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Patrick Eaves, F, Boston College, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Justin Abdelkader, F, Michigan State, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Danny Dekeyser, D, Western Michigan, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jimmy Howard, G, Maine, 2-2, .900 SV%, 2.82 GAA

LA Kings

Alec Martinez, D, Miami, 2Gp, (0g-2a—2tps)

Dustin Penner, F, Maine, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Rob Scuderi, D, Boston College, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jonathan Quick, UMass, 4GP, 2-2, .941 SV% 1.67 GAA

Minnesota Wild

Matt Cullen, F, St. Cloud, 4GP, (0g-3a—3pts)

Jason Zucker, F, Denver, 4GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Charlie Coyle, F, Boston University, 4GP, (0a-2a—2pts)

Zach Parise, F, North Dakota, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Tom Gilbert, D, Wisconsin, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Ryan Suter, D, Wisconsin, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Torrey Mitchell, F, Vermont, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Montreal Canadiens

Rene Bourque, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Brian Gionta, F, Boston College, 2GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Jeff Halpern, F, Princeton University, 2GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Max Pacioretty, F, Michigan, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

New York Islanders

Kyle Okposo, F, Minnesota, 4GP, (3g-1a—4pts)

Matt Moulson, F, Cornell, 4GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Colin McDonald, F, Providence, 4GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Keith Aucoin, F, Norwich University, 4GP, (0a-1a—1pts)

Brad Strait, D, Boston University, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Marty Reasoner, F, Boston College, 1 GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

New York Rangers

Brian Boyle, F, Boston College, 2 GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin, 3GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Carl Hagelin, F, Michigan, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Derek Stepan, F, Wisconsin, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Darroll Powe, F, Princeton, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Chris Kreider, F, Boston College, 1 GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Ottawa Senators

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (2g-2a—4pts)

Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Cory Conacher, F, Canisius College 3GP, (1G-0a—1pts)

Eric Gryba, D, Boston University, 2Gp, (0g-0a—0pts)

Patrick Wiercioch, D, Denver, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Pittsburgh Penguins

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 4Gp, (2g-2a—4pts)

Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 4GP, (0g-3a—3pts)

Mark Eaton, D, Notre Dame, 4GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Craig Adams, F, Harvard, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Douglas Murray, D, Cornell, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Tanner Glass, F, Dartmouth, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Beau Bennett, F, Denver, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Matt Niskanen, D, Duluth, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

San Jose Sharks

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (4g-4a—8pts)

Dan Boyle, D, Miami, 4GP, (1g-3a—4pts)

Tommy Wingels, F, Miami, 4GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Justin Braun, D, UMass, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Irwin, D, UMass, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tim Kennedy, F, Michigan State, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Adam Burish, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

T.J. Galiardi, F, Dartmouth, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

St. Louis Blues

T.J. Oshie, F, North Dakota, 4GP, (2g-0a—2pts)

Kevin Shattenkirk, D, Boston University, 4GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

David Backes, F, Minnesota State, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Jordan Leopold, D, Minnesota, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Andy McDonald, D, Colgate, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Chris Porter, F, North Dakota, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jaden Schwartz, F, Colorado College, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Brian Elliott, G, Wisconsin, 4GP, 2-2, .935 SV% 1.67

Toronto Maple Leafs

James Van Riemsdyk, F, New Hampshire, 3GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Phil Kessel, F, Minnesota, 3GP, (2g-0a—2pts)

Jake Gardiner, D, Wisconsin, 2GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Matt Frattin, F, North Dakota, 2GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tyler Bozak, F, Denver, 3GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

John-Michael Liles, D, Michigan State, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Ryan O’Byrne, D, Cornell, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Michael Kostka, D, UMass, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Vancouver Canucks (Eliminated 4-0 by the Sharks)

Ryan Kessler, F, Ohio State, 4GP, (2g-0a—2pts)

Kevin Bieksa, D, Bowling Green, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Andrew Alberts, D, Boston College, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Chris Higgins, F, Yale, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Mason Raymond, F, Duluth, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Andrew Ebbett, F, Michigan, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jason Garrison, D, Duluth, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Cory Schneider, G, Boston College, 2GP, 0-2, .880 SV%, 4.62 GAA

Washington Capitals

Jay Beagle, F, Anchorage, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Jack Hillen, F, Colorado College, 3GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Steven Oleksy, D, Lake Superior State, 3GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Hendricks, F, Saint Cloud, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Cross Posted at the Hockey Writers Combine...

SCP: Blackhawks (Toews) vs. Wild (Parise)

Wild (26-19-3) 8^th vs. Blackhawks (36-7-5)1^st

Game 1: at Chicago Tuesday, April 30, 2013 7:00 PM CT, CBC, FSN, NBCSN

Game 2: at Chicago Friday, May 3, 2013 8:30 PM CT, CBC, FSN, NBCSN

Game 3: at Minnesota Sunday May 5, 2013 2:00 PM CT, CBC, NBC

Game 4: at Minnesota Tuesday, April 30, 2013 May 7, 8:30 PM CT, CBC, FSN, NBCSN

GAME 5: at Chicago Thursday May 9, 2013 TBD (If Necessary)

GAME 6: at Minnesota Saturday May 11, 2013 TBD (If Necessary)

GAME 7: at Chicago Sunday May 12, 2013 TBD (If Necessary)

On paper this series looks like a mismatch and one that could be very short series if the Wild don’t right their ship. You have the President’s Trophy winner versus a team that basically backed into the Stanley Cup Playoffs on the last day of the season. The Wild went 1-2 against the Chicago Blackhawks this season.

How bad were the Wild?

The Wild went 5-8-1 during the month of April and had to be the lowly Colorado Avalanche 3-1 on the last game of the season, to gain the eighth and final playoff spot.

Two Former Sioux go head-to-head  

 There is an interesting series side note; you have two former Fighting Sioux forwards Zach Parise (18g-20a—38pts) and Jonathan Toews (23g-25a—48pts) who both played two seasons at the University of North Dakota. Currently, both are leaders on their current squads, as well.

While neither player played with each other, while they were at the University of North Dakota.  Parise (49g-67a—116pts) played at UND from 2002-04 and Toews (40g-45a—85pts) played at UND from 2005-07. Both players enjoy icon like status at the University of North Dakota and in city of Grand Forks.

The Quest For The Cup Begins!

The Stanley Cup Playoffs are here, starting tomorrow night. Who's your choice to win the Stanley Cup?