The Avalanche, Rangers and Sharks all find themselves down two games and battling to hang onto their playoff hopes tonight. Before the games start I will share a few quick thoughts:
On the Red Wings vs. Avalanche series: If the Avs have any hope of advancing (which they pretty much don’t) They need Forsberg to play (I don’t care if he is on his death bed!) and Theodore to stop goals. It seems so simple, yet, so impossible. The Wings are looking hot, scoring goals, drawing penalties, scoring short handed, playing defense–basically they are playing hockey. Something the woebegone Avalanche could aim for. Sadly, apart from Cody McCormick’s scrap with McCarty, neither team is doing much to rekindle the rivalry.
On the Rangers vs. Penguins Series: Both teams fought hard on Sunday afternoon but the Ranger’s simply couldn’t get the puck in the net (before the whistle that is). Expect more physical play, and energy from the young Penguin’s team. Lundqvist was good on Sunday, but his team needs to help him out. As for Fleury, I’m still not convinced that he is a Cup caliber goalie, but he has proven himself so far.
On the Sharks vs. Stars Series: I expect the Sharks will come back now that they have had a chance to feel out the Stars. I’ll be honest though, I have been so busy following the other games I haven’t watched any of this series.
