Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/23/2013)

NHL's Stanley Cup. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Here is the list of NHL hockey players that are currently playing in the second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffsthat 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

We have a tightening at the top of the points standings. Former Vermont Catamout and current Chicago Blackhawk forward Patrick Sharp (6g-4a—10pts) is tied for the lead with former Wisconsin Badgers and current San Jose Shark forward Joe Pavelski (4g-6a—10pts). 

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

In third place; the Pittsburgh Penguins have a pair of players, former Gopher defenseman Paul Martin (2g-7a—9pts) is tied team mate former Ferris State Bull Dog forward Chris Kunitz (4g-5a—9pts).  

Ottawa Senators forwards, former Notre Dame Irish forward Erik Condra (1g-6a—7pts) is tied for fifth with teammate former Wisconsin Badgers forward Kyle Turris (5g-2a—7pts)

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

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 8GP, (4g-6a—10pts)

3. Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 10GP, (2g-7a—9pts)

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 10GP, (4g-5a—9pts)

5. Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 9GP, (1g-6a—7pts)

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 9GP, (5g-2a—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 thegoon48@gra.midco.net

 Boston Bruins (3)

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

Matt Bartkowski, D, Ohio State, 5GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Richard Peverley, F, St. Lawrence University, 9GP, (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 (5)

Dustin Penner, F, Maine, 10GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

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

Rob Scuderi, D, Boston College, 10GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

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

Jonathan Quick, UMass, 10GP, 6-4, .944 SV% 1.64 GAA

 New York Rangers (6)

Carl Hagelin, F, Michigan, 10GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Brian Boyle, F, Boston College, 10GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Derek Stepan, F, Wisconsin, 10GP, (3g-0a—2pts)

Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin, 10GP, (1g-2a—3pts)

Chris Kreider, F, Boston College, 6GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

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

Ottawa Senators (6)

Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 9GP, (1g-6a—7pts)

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 9GP, (5g-2a—7pts)

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

Colin Greening, F, Cornell, 9GP, (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, 10GP, (2g-7a—9pts)

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 10GP, (4g-5a—9pts)

Douglas Murray, D, Cornell, 10GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Mark Eaton, D, Notre Dame, 6GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Matt Niskanen, D, Duluth, 10GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Craig Adams, F, Harvard, 10GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

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

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

Brooks Orpik, D, Boston College, 7GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

San Jose Sharks (8)

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 8GP, (4g-6a—10pts)

Dan Boyle, D, Miami, 8GP, (2g-4a—6pts)

Tommy Wingels, F, Miami, 8GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Justin Braun, D, UMass, 8GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Irwin, D, UMass, 8GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

T.J. Galiardi, F, Dartmouth, 8GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

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

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

Cross-posted at the Hockey Writers Combine.

Related articles

• Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/23/2013) (thehockeywriters.com)
• Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/21/2013) (thehockeywriters.com)
• Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/17/2013) (thehockeywriters.com)
• Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/15/2013) (thehockeywriters.com)

Where are is all the antipathy coming from in regards to UND head coach Dave Hakstol

Recently, ESPN posted an article that was written by Craig Custance on their Internet site (subscription required) about possible future coaching candidates for NHL and AHL jobs. UND head coach Dave Hakstol was listed as the top college coach candidates by Custance. I mean, it makes sense to me.  I have always been a big advocate of coach Hakstol’s work and I think he’s a very good college hockey coach.

Naturally, UND Hockey beat writer Brad Schlossman posted a quote from the article on his media blog.  Why not? The head coach of the team you cover just made a major publication and he’s getting major props. Kind of blows up the Hakstol hater’s story line as well.

Almost on cue, the haters came out to post their displeasure and thoughts about coach Hakstol.  It’s funny how brave people become when they can hide behind the anonymity of a computer screen and a fake name. None of these people, would have the guts to say these things to Dave’s face.

Top college coach candidate

Dave Hakstol, North Dakota — He runs the powerhouse North Dakota college hockey program, one that continues to pump out NHL players such as Jonathan Toews, T.J. Oshie, Travis Zajac, Drew Stafford and Matt Greene.

“This guy is really intelligent,” said one NHL source. “I think he’s got a pro mind.”

Hakstol signed a six-year contract in 2012 that would keep him behind the bench in North Dakota through 2017-18 and said his focus is on sustaining his success there.

“I have a high level of respect for the guys who are able to produce successful and sustainable results at the NHL level. At some point in my career if I was able to earn an opportunity to work with a good organization, it would be a consideration,” Hakstol wrote in an email on Monday when asked whether he has NHL interest. “All that being said, I don’t spend much time thinking about hypotheticals. I feel like our entire staff has been around the game long enough to have a real appreciation for what we have here and has a commitment to producing that long-term success and sustainability at UND.”

So if you look at Coach Hakstol’s impressive resume, he’s lacking “one thing” an NCAA title. My question is; does this impressive resume deserve this much scrutiny, angst and antipathy? I don’t know, I don’t believe it does.

Years at UND: 9
235-119-37 (.648)
NCAA Appearances: 9
NCAA Frozen Four Appearances: 5
NCAA Championship Appearances: 1
WCHA Final Five Appearances: 9
WCHA Final Five Championships: 4
WCHA Final Five Championship Appearances: 5
WCHA MacNaughton Cup Championships: 2

I guess I don’t understand where the flames of discontent are coming from? The coaching staff at the University of North Dakota is second to none. All three coaches played hockey at UND. All three coaches have played professionally in the NHL, AHL or IHL, so they have the experience necessary to play at the next level. Dane Jackson (AHL) and Brad Berry (NHL) have coach in the professional ranks. Not a lot of Division I hockey programs can make that claim.

Cross-posted at the Hockey Writers Combine...

Did the Kings get screwed?

Wow! Looks like a blown call that went in the San Jose Sharks favor. I am not a fan of either team, but I want to see the games called correctly. It appears that Dustin Penner had scored a goal.

A few of the deleted tweets from the Kings Twitter Feed

Here are a few of the tweets that were deleted from the L.A. Kings Twitter that were posted by account by @thekevinryder You have to wonder what the L.A. Kings were thinking when they let a Disc Jockey from a local radio station in L.A. do tweets for a period. The L.A. Kings are a first class organization. Here is the link to the radio station and it says, "Tonight, Kevin will also take over the Kings’ official twitter account for the 2nd period of the game."

L.A. Kings let fan tweet for them for a period. Not a really good call.

We apologize for the tweets that came from a guest of our organization. They were inappropriate and do not reflect the LA Kings.
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

This is what I'm talking about! - @thekevinryder RT @melvitomartinez: @lakings refuse to lose hope. #gokingsgo
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

Trivia time: What year did the @sanjosesharks win the Stanley Cup? Give up? Me too. I can’t see the future. - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

The L.A. Kings let a fan tweet for a period for them during tonight's game, I bet they don't do that again anytime soon. Check it out the ones that weren't deleted by the Kings. There was a tasteless tweet that made a joke about being raped that has since been deleted you can see it at the link provided.

just for the record, the Kings have been out shot by the Sharks in every game of this series. Badly. Find a way to win. - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

(1 of 2) “This is L.A.” by the Briggs used by the Kings. The Ducks, use…hang on, let me find a Ducks game. Be right back… - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

If they're reading my tweets we have bigger problems. RT@suemenval: @lakings @thekevinryder 2 periods to go...show the boys some positivity!
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

Jonathan Quick, like last year, is keeping us in it. Plus he punched a dude. @thekevinryder RT @lbchopshop: Angry Quick is hot. And angry.
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

This is Kevin from the Kevin and Bean show on KROQ. Tough game to do a Twitter takeover. Sharks 1-0. #GoKingsGo - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

I’ll let @genamazzeo introduce me: twitter.com/kingestkong/st… - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

(Video) Bruins Merlot line lead B's to a 3-0 Series lead

The Boston Bruins have pushed the New York Rangers to the brink of elimination, with a 2-1 victory over the New York Rangers, Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden. The Bruins erased a 1-0 Rangers lead in the third period with goals from Johnny Boychuk and Daniel Paille.

I don’t know how you could describe Paille’s miraculous goal, the goal came off a goofy rebound that should have found its way into the net, but had eyes. Seriously, you have to see this goal to believe it. The puck that was shot by Gregory Campbell looked like it came off the face of a sand wedge and had some serious back-spin on it. If I was going to describe it, the puck’s movement looked more like Titleist Pro V1 golf than a hockey puck. The puck was going towards the goal line – hit the goal line and spun back like it was hit by Tiger Woods. The puck never broke the plane until Paille put the puck past Henrik Lundqvist on the rebound, for the game winning goal.

I know some people are sick of hearing about the fourth line, but you can see that the Merlot line had the majority of the points for the Boston Bruins tonight, Shawn Thornton (0g-2a—2pts), Gregory Campbell (0g-1a—1pts), Daniel Paille (1g-1a—2pts). Boston Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk also got his fourth goal of the playoffs tonight as well.

New Drinking game. Everytime Pierre McGuire mentions the Bruins fourth line drink a beer, you will not be sober by the end of the game.
— Eric J. Burton (@goon48) May 22, 2013

Zdeno Chara gets hit in the face by Ryan Callahan, no call on the play

The Officiating has been poor in the Stanley Cup Playoffs this year, there is no doubt about it. This is an obvious high stick by Rangers forward Ryan Callahan on Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara that went uncalled, that should drawn a double minor penalty. Four officials on the ice and no one saw it. The Officials did manage to call a very weak penalty on Jaromir Jagr that was much less serious than this.

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.

(Video) Patrick Kane goal and did Johan Franzen take a dive?

Nice goal by Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane. One of the lone bright spots in tonight's game for the Blackhawks. The Redwings proved to be the better team again for a second game in a row.

If you’re a fan of either team, you might not be the one to ask. Watch the video; I want to see if anyone else is seeing this as well. It appears that Detroit forward Johan Franzen embellished this hit just a bit; I am not saying he wasn't hit from behind, because he was. But in my opinion, I think that Franzen could have received an academy award for his acting ability. Thoughts... Should the refs blown the whistle on the play? In my opinion, I thought the refs made the right call my not blowing the play dead. Feel free to disagree if you like.

Big story of the afternoon: Jim Scherr might be leaving the NCHC

The "big story" to break this afternoon is that NCHC commissioner Jim Scherr might be leaving the NCHC to take another job. Okay, more power to Commissioner Scherr for possibly getting another opportunity, I have never faulted anyone that has had an opportunity to better themselves and move on.

Brad Schlossman, Grand Forks Herald -- Prior to joining the NCHC, Scherr was the chief executive officer of the U.S. Olympic Committee.

UND athletic director Brian Faison, the chair of the NCHC board of directors, said he’s aware of Scherr’s discussions with “another job opportunity,” but says nothing has been finalized yet.

“The NCHC board of directors is well aware that commissioner Scherr has been approach with another job opportunity,” Faison said in a statement. “The recent published reports that Jim has already accepted a position are erroneous. He has been forthcoming with information regarding a competing bid for his services. Since this is an internal personnel matter, the conference will offer no further comment at this time.”

No matter what the NCHC does, there are going to be the distractors and haters. That is just a fact of life. To these haters, nothing the league does is going to change their opinion. Some of the haters are the foam at the mouth variety. The fact that the University of North Dakota is involved in the NCHC makes their foaming at the mouth a bonus. All it is; is blind hatred and jealousy. That's what this boils down to.

There were a lot of people that are upset with what transpired two summer ago and will always hold a grudge towards the way things were handled. I don't blame them, it could have been handled better. Maybe the optics were that great and there were a few glitches getting the league off of the ground but none of them have marveled the WCHA's questionable tournament marketing scheme.

That being said, there are some that just can't help themselves. I have had a lot of discussion with other fans, bloggers and media types about the formation of the NCHC. It's water over the bridge. None of us were asked for our opinion, so really we're just bystanders.

So how does that affect the average fan that will be watching college hockey this fall and winter. Won't mean a thing. The fans are going to go the game no matter who is running the league office.

Related articles

• NCHC Coaching Résumés (thehockeywriters.com)

(VIDEO) Viktor Stalberg misses check on the wings Jakub Kindl

Ouch! That has to hurt... This is the end result of Viktor Stalberg’s attempted check on Detroit defenseman Jakub Kindl, as you can see by the video, the Red Wings defenseman moved at last second and Stalberg whiffed on the attempted hit.

(Video) Brooks Orpik hit on Chris Neil

This is the hit that Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik put on Ottawa Senators forward Chris Neil. There was no penalty called on the play, in my opinion, this was a dangerous hit, but not necessarily dirty, but dangerous.

If you're a fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins you probably think this is a good hockey play. If you're a fan of the Senators, you probably wanted a penalty on the play. The head coach of the Ottawa Sentors Paul MacLean didn't like the play and was unhappy about on the players bench. I suppose in the regular season, there might have been a penalty called on the hit, it's a what we call a push check, a form of checking from behind. What do others think of the hit?

#TribHKY >> Neil lost footing, Orpik give him good shove during his fall. #pens #sens
— Rob Rossi (@RobRossi_Trib) May 20, 2013

Chris Neil.....hi...you're injured!
— Injury Ninja (@InjuryNinja) May 20, 2013

Like Lucic's hit on Gunnarson, that's a penalty a month ago.
— Joe Meloni (@JoeMeloni) May 20, 2013

John Tortorella speaks after the Rangers Game 2 loss to the Bruins

Video courtesy of our friends at Bruins Daily, stop by and visit their blog, you won't be disappointed. This is one of the longer press conferences you will probably see from New York Rangers head coach John Tortorella. This post game presser lasted a grand total of 02:14, that's pretty impressive if you ask me.

(Video) Boychuk, Marchand and Lucic goals... Bruins 5 Rangers 2

English: 37 Patrice Bergeron (C, BOS) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Boston Bruins took the New York Rangers to the woodshed today. It appears that the Bruins might have been a bit off or even worn out from their screwed up schedule in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

One my friends – a great hockey mind – told me that the Boston Bruins were lucky to win their first round series against the Maple Leafs. This is a fact that I agree with.

I have said on a couple occasion that I think that the Boston Bruins slept walked through the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Bruins looked tired and didn't have any energy in their step, that all seems to have changed now. I don't know if the Bruins are  more rested or of they have found a second gear. I am not sure what is going on here, but the Boston Bruins are playing better.

In the second round so far, the Bruins top six forwards have been absolutely awesome. In the first round, many of us were ready to send out a search party for them.

Boston Bruins forward Brad Marchand had another two point game (1g-1a—2pts) and now has five points in his last three games (2g-3a—5pts) after only scoring two points in the first round against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Patrice Bergeron is starting to find his game as well and has been red hot as of late as well… Bergy has (2g-4a—6pts) in the last three games after scoring just a single point in the first five games that he played in.

(Video) Torey Krug scores his second goal in two games for the Bruins

Make that two goals in two games for Boston Bruins rookie defenseman, Torey Krug. The Livonia, Michigan product has played in a grand total of five NHL games and has two NHL goals, both in this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs.

05:28 BOS T. KRUG (2) SNAP - ASST: N. HORTON (5) AND D. KREJCI (10)

With an assist on Krug's goal, Krejci put himself back in first in playoff scoring with 15 points (5g, 10a), one ahead of Evgeni Malkin ^CS
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) May 19, 2013

2013 Memorial Cup American National Anthem Screw Up, Anthems in general...

This is the American National Anthem that was sung before the Portland and Halifax game at the 2013 Memorial Cup. The woman singing the anthem is Alexis Normand, apparently she didn’t know the words to the American anthem, maybe she shouldn’t have sang it. This is a joke, the players on the bench are laughing at her... I guess, I would expect better, especially during the Memorial Cup.

I'm embarrassed and deeply sorry. I wish I'd had more time to learn the American anthem. Thanks so much for the crowd's help! #memorialcup
— Alexis Normand (@Alex6Normand) May 19, 2013

But that isn’t the only place that this happens, I went to the races at River Cities Speedway on Friday night and woman the sang the Canadian and American Anthems was absolutely brutal, and shouldn’t been singing the either anthem and offended two countries with her brutal renditions. It was absolutely disgusting. It does matter.

At least the woman that miss sang the American anthem can actually sing, this woman that sang the anthem at the races on Friday night, couldn’t sing at all. Why is it a big deal? The American and Canadian anthems are serious songs and both countries have proud, rich histories and traditions. So yeah, I do think it’s important to give both countries anthems respect. I would rather hear a band or a recording of of the anthems then listen to someone slaughter the American and or Canadian anthems.

The woman that sang the anthems before the races offended two countriestonight. Absolutely brutal.
— Eric J. Burton (@goon48) May 18, 2013

Max Domi hammers Shane McColgan

Wow! What a hard clean hit by the London Knights forward Max Domi on Saskatoon Blades forward Shane McColgan. This is Domi's draft year and he's a players that will probably get drafted this pretty high this summer in the 2013 NHL draft. The Memorial Cup is on the NHL network May 17-26 May.

Tweaking the Pairwise and other NCAA Hockey issues

Todd Milewski Executive Editor of USCHO has a couple of interesting blog posts that are posted up on USCHO and think there are a couple of points that are worth addressing… They are as follows.

Minor discussions on rules

The rules committee is in the middle of a two-year rule book cycle, so no changes can be made this offseason. There were some small discussions, however, on giving on-ice officials the ability to use video to review major penalties and ways to increase offense.

Anastos, the rules committee chair, said the most prominent idea presented to increase scoring opportunities was to not allow players to intentionally leave a skating position (i.e., kneel or lay down) to block shots.

First off, shot blocking is part of the game of hockey and any talk of taking shot blocking out of hockey should immediately be dismissed and discredited. I can't see that going anywhere and any talk of this needs to stop. This would be a good way for college hockey to lose the top blue chip recruits to the CHL immediately.

To quote BSU head coach Tom Serratore, shot blocking is part of the game of hockey. “You got to block shots,” Serratore said. “That’s hockey; that’s not a key, that’s automatic, that’s non-negotiable, that’s part of being a hockey player, that’s sacrifice.

As far as tweaking the criteria for the Pairwise Ranking for road wins. I am all for it. Bravo! Let’s do it. There are teams that for whatever reason, that refuse to travel, that’s a fact. The teams that travel for nonconference games should be rewarded for their travel; it’s harder to play in another team’s rink. That team should get a bump in the pairwise, especially when they get a quality win against a top-ten opponent.

I still think that there is going to be a movement by some to get the NCAA regionals back to campus. Starting in September 2013, UND Athletic Director Brian Faison is going to be part of the NCAA Ice Hockey Rules committee, so there will be an advocate of moving the NCAA Division I Hockey regionals back to campus.

Earlier this month, the NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Committee heard ideas from coaches on changes to improve the regional atmosphere, but there was no consensus. The movement to return NCAA games to campus sites has its supporters but there also has been a good amount of pushback. [USCHO]

I am interested in seeing what others think about some of these issues. I would love to see what schools actually pushed back against bringing the NCAA regionals back on campus. I have not heard yet, but I have my suspicions.

North Dakota announces 2013-14 incoming freshman class

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – University of North head men’s hockey coach Dave Hakstol announced today that eight incoming freshmen will join the program for the 2013-14 season.

North Dakota’s incoming class includes: defensemen Gage Ausmus, Paul LaDue, Keaton Thompson, and Troy Stecher; forwards Luke Johnson, Wade Murphy, and Adam Tambellini, and; goaltender Matt Hrynkiw.

Additional incoming freshmen may still be announced at a later date, according to Hakstol.

2013-14 Incoming Freshmen (Alphabetical):

Name: Gage Ausmus                   Ht: 6-1    Wt: 204      Pos: D    Hometown: East Grand Forks, Minn.     Previous Team: U.S. NTDP

Draft eligible in 2013 and is ranked 148^th among North American skaters by Central Scouting ... Spent the past two seasons with the United States National Team Development Program (NTDP) where he was a teammate of fellow incoming freshman defenseman Keaton Thompson … Played in in 66 games with the U.S. Under-18 Team in 2012-13 and registered two goals and 12 assists … Tied for second on the team with a +22 rating … Helped Team USA win a silver medal at the World Under-18 Championship … Spent the 2011-12 season with the U.S. Under-17 Team and collected two goals and four assists in 54 games … Named to Media All-Tournament Team at the 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in Windsor, Ontario, where the U.S. placed second … Helped lead the 2011 U.S. National Under-17 Team to a Four Nations Tournament title in Balishikha, Russia … Played at East Grand Forks (Minn.) High School in 2010-11 prior to joining the NTDP and scored three goals and 11 assists in 15 games.

Name: Matt Hrynkiw                    Ht: 5-11 Wt: 179      Pos: G    Hometown: Saskatoon, Sask.                Previous Team: Humboldt (SJHL)    

Spent the past three seasons with the Humboldt Broncos of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) … Named Canada’s 2012-13 national Junior A goaltender of the year and SJHL Goaltender of the Year after going 27-11-2 and leading the league in goals against average (1.83), save percentage (.939) and shutouts (six) … Went 10-6 with a 2.11 GAA and .932 SV% during the SJHL playoffs … Earned SJHL Goaltender of the Month honors four out of six months … Named Humboldt’s Team MVP, Hardest Worker, Best Team Player, Most Dedicated Player, and 3-Star Award winner … Helped Humboldt to an SJHL championship in 2011-12 after leading the league in GAA (2.28) and shutouts (four) … Last name is pronounced huh-RINK-you.

Name: Luke Johnson                   Ht: 5-11 Wt: 165      Pos: F     Hometown: Grand Forks, N.D.               Previous Team: Lincoln (USHL)        

Draft eligible in 2013 and is ranked 96^th among North American skaters by Central Scouting ... Spent the past two seasons with the Lincoln Stars of the United States Hockey League (USHL), where he was a teammate of fellow incoming freshman and Grand Forks native Paul LaDue, who is also is cousin … Recorded 46 points (19g, 27a) and a team-leading nine power-play goals in 57 games in 2012-13 … Collected 55 points (20g, 35a) in 55 games in 2011-12 … Participated in the USHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in each of his two years with Lincoln … Helped lead Team USA to a gold medal at the 2012 World Junior A Challenge, collecting four assists in four games … Played at Grand Forks (N.D.) Central High School as a freshman (2009-10) and sophomore (2010-11), winning a state title as a sophomore and earning all-state honors as a sophomore … Father, Steve, played at UND from 1984-88, was a member of UND’s 1987 NCAA championship team, and was a first-team All-American and Hobey Baker Award finalist in 1987-88 … Uncle, Chad Johnson, was his head coach in Lincoln and played at UND from 1990-93.

Name: Paul LaDue                        Ht: 6-2    Wt: 185      Pos: D    Hometown: Grand Forks, N.D.               Previous Team: Lincoln (USHL)

Selected in the sixth round (191^st overall) by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft … Spent the past two seasons with the Lincoln Stars of the USHL where he was a teammate of fellow incoming freshman and Grand Forks native Luke Johnson, who is also his cousin … Set the franchise scoring record for defensemen with 83 points (21g, 62a) and was a +63 in 118 career games with Lincoln … Was named the USHL Defenseman of the Year in 2012-13 after leading the league’s defensemen in points (49) and assists (37) in 62 games … Collected 34 points (9g, 22a) in 56 games with Lincoln in 2011-12 and led USHL defensemen with a +36 rating … Spent the 2010-11 season with the Alexandria Blizzard of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) and was named to the NAHL All-Rookie Second Team after recording three goals and 19 assists in 56 games … Played prep hockey at Grand Forks (N.D.) Central High School in 2009-10 and had 10 goals and 25 assists in 27 games.

Name: Wade Murphy                   Ht: 6-0    Wt: 180      Pos: F     Hometown: Victoria, B.C.                       Previous Team: Penticton (BCHL)

Draft eligible in 2013 … Led Penticton of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) in points (70) and assists (47) in 2012-13 and earned his second straight BCHL Interior Conference First All-Star Team … Tied for fifth in the BCHL scoring race … Added five goals and six assists in 15 playoff games … Was a teammate of fellow incoming freshman Troy Stecher … Joined Penticton midway through the 2011-12 season and helped lead the Vees to BCHL and Canadian national championships … Collected 14 goals and 15 assists in 22 games with the Vees after scoring 22 goals and 40 assists in 38 games with the Victoria Grizzlies … His 91 total points ranked fourth overall in league’s scoring race … Added nine goals and nine assists in 15 playoff games … Helped lead Canada West to a silver medal at the 2012 World Junior A Challenge, earning all-tournament honors with three goals and three assists in four games.

Name: Troy Stecher                     Ht: 5-11 Wt: 180      Pos: D    Hometown: Richmond, B.C.                    Previous Team: Penticton (BCHL)

Spent the past three seasons with the Penticton Vees of the BCHL … A teammate of fellow incoming freshman Wade Murphy for the past two years … Was named 2012-13 BCHL Interior Conference Defenseman of the Year after collecting 47 points (8g, 39a) in 52 games … Was also named to the BCHL Interior Conference First All-Star Team … Led the league’s defensemen in assists … Served as team captain in 2012-13 … Won a silver medal with Canada West at the 2012 World Junior A Challenge … Was named to the BCHL Interior Conference Second All-Star Team in 2011-12 after recording 42 points (5g, 37a) in 53 games  and leading the Vees to a BCHL championship … Went on to be named RBC Cup Playoffs Top Defenseman after scoring 15 points in 26 games and leading Penticton to a Canadian Junior A national championship … Helped Canada West to a gold medal at the 2011 World Junior A Challenge … Had 20 points (5g, 15a) in 54 games as a rookie with Penticton in 2010-11 … Last name is pronounced STETCH-ur.

Name: Adam Tambellini              Ht: 6-4    Wt: 177      Pos: F     Hometown: Edmonton, Alberta             Previous Team: Surrey (BCHL)

Draft eligible in 2013 and is ranked 42^nd among North American skaters by Central Scouting ... Finished the 2012-13 season with the BCHL’s Surrey Eagles, collecting 14 goals and 12 assists in just 16 games … Had begun the year with Vernon and amassed 22 goals and 17 assists in 36 games … His 36 total goals tied him for third in the BCHL … Helped lead Surrey to a BCHL championship and is currently competing in the Royal Bank Cup national Junior A championship … Has 10 goals and eight assists in 17 playoff games … Earned BCHL Coastal Conference Second All-Star Team honors … Spent the entire 2011-12 season with the Vernon Vipers and recorded 27 goals and 29 assists in 55 games … Father, Steve Tambellini, enjoyed a 10-year playing career in the NHL and most recently served as general manager of the Edmonton Oilers from 2008-09 to 2012-13.

Name: Keaton Thompson           Ht: 6-0    Wt: 185      Pos: Defense     Hometown: Devils Lake, N.D.

Draft eligible in 2013 and is ranked 53^rd among North American skaters by Central Scouting ... Spent the past two seasons with the United States National Team Development Program (NTDP), where he was a teammate of fellow incoming freshman defenseman Gage Ausmus … Appeared in 67 games with the U.S. Under-18 Team in 2012-13 and registered four goals and 16 assists with a +18 rating … Helped Team USA win a silver medal at the World Under-18 Championship …Appeared in 54 games with the U.S. Under-17 Team in 2011-12 and scored five goals and 17 assists … Member of the U.S. National Under-17 Team that finished first at the Vlad Dzurilla Under-18 Tournament … Helped lead the 2011 U.S. National Under-17 Team to a Four Nations Tournament title in Balishikha, Russia.

Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/17/2013)

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.

Former Vermont Catamout forward Patrick Sharp leads all former college hockey players with (6g-3a—9pts). Wisconsin Badgers forward Joe Pavelski, (4g-4a—8pts) is in second place and former Ferris State forward Chris Kunitz, (3g-4a—7pts) and former Gopher defenseman Paul Martin (2g-5a—7pts) are tied for third place in points.

Former Michigan State defenseman Torey Krug, who was signed as a free agent last spring by the Boston Bruins, scored his first NHL goal, in only his fourth NHL game. Krug made, in Stanley Cup playoff debut  in game one against the New York Rangers. Krug’s power play goal at the mark 02:55 of the third period, tied the game 2-2 to send the game to overtime. Boston forward Brad Marchand won the game in overtime with a goal at the 15:40 mark of the overtime period.

Boston Bruins

Richard Peverley, F, St. Lawrence University, 7GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Matt Bartkowski, D, Ohio State, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Torey Krug, D, Michigan State, 1GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Chicago Blackhawks

Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 6GP, (6g-3a—9pts)

Duncan Keith, D, Michigan State, 6GP, (1g-4a—5pts)

Jonathon Toews, F, North Dakota, 6GP, (0g-3a—3pts)

Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota, 6GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

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

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

Detroit Red Wings

Gustav Nyquist, F, Maine, 7GP, (1g-2a—3pts)

Justin Abdelkader, F, Michigan State, 6GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Brendan Smith, F, Wisconsin, 8GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Patrick Eaves, F, Boston College, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

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

Jimmy Howard, G, Maine, 4-4, .913 SV%, 2.77 GAA

LA Kings

Dustin Penner, F, Maine, 8GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

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

Rob Scuderi, D, Boston College, 8GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Jonathan Quick, UMass, 8GP, 6-2, .947 SV% 1.56 GAA

New York Rangers

Carl Hagelin, F, Michigan, 8GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Brian Boyle, F, Boston College, 7GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Derek Stepan, F, Wisconsin, 8GP, (3g-0a—2pts)

Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin, 8GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Chris Kreider, F, Boston College, 4GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

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

Ottawa Senators

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 6GP, (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)

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

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

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, 6GP, (4g-4a—8pts)

Dan Boyle, D, Miami, 6GP, (1g-3a—4pts)

Tommy Wingels, F, Miami, 6GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Justin Braun, D, UMass, 6GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Irwin, D, UMass, 6GP, (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, 6GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Cross-posted @ the Hockey Writers Combine.

 

Raffi Torres suspended the rest of the second round

I said this the other day. --> 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, he does, 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.

I am going to stand by these comments. Raffi Torres is a reckless player, but he has cleaned up his act, a bit this year. I don't think that this hit is worthy of a 4-6 game suspension. This hit is worthy of a suspension. But whatever. 

I am going to pose a question; what if this was the Kings Dustin Brown laying this hit on the Sharks Patrick Marleau or Joe Pavelski, how long of a suspension would he get for the same hit? Has he not made some of the same kinds of plays only to escape suspension? Thoughts? 

Brad Marchand wins it in O.T. for the Bruins... 3-2

The Boston Bruins were lucky to get the win against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first round, the Boston Bruins outshot the New York Rangers 48-35 and had a 16-5 edge in shots in the overtime period. New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist kept the Rangers in the game by stopping 45/48 shots.

Brad Marchand had two points in the first six games that he played in during the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs, now has three point in two games and (1g-4a—5pts) in eight games. Patrice Bergeron had two points in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, now has four points in last two games and has been a big part of the Bruins turn around.

A Tired Johnny Boychuk

All I can think of is Ace Ventura slamming his face into the bench #Bruins twitpic.com/cr2x81
— CJ Fogler (@cjzero) May 17, 2013

s/t @cjzero Boston Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk took a beating during game one.

(Video) Taylor Pyatt boards Johnny Boychuck

New York Rangers forward Taylor Pyatt was giving a two minute minor for boarding for this hit on Boston Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuck. This hit ramped the game up for both teams. It's interesting to see how some classify the hit.

Pyatt hip checks Boychuk's head into the boards at 2:22 of the scoreless second period. Boychuk down on ice for a while.
— Andrew Gross (@AGrossRecord) May 17, 2013

NHL plans to "overdo" the outdoor game experience

Wow! Just for the record, I do think overdo is appropriate word in this case by definition. Per the dictionary - overdo to do too much, or to excess Remember when one outdoor game a season used to be sufficient? Now there is going to be two games alone at Yankee Stadium and the Rangers are going to play in two of the games in one season.

Pat Leonard, NEW YORK DAILY NEWS – The Bronx is freezing.

The NHL is planning an outdoor Stadium Series for next season headlined by two Rangers games at Yankee Stadium, one against the New Jersey Devils on Jan. 26 and another against the Islanders on Jan. 29, the Daily News has confirmed.

TSN first reported the planned series, which is not yet contractually finalized but would include six outdoor games total, beginning with the Jan. 1 Winter Classic between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings at Michigan Stadium.

I am not really a fan of the outdoor game. But like a good car accident, I like to take look. I can imagine that beer sales will be very good for the two game event. I mean what next? Do we have a block of 10 outdoor games?

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?