It's been two weeks (so, sorry for the lateness on this), but the passing of Gordie Howe is something not even this little corner of the hockey blogosphere can ignore.
When you try to picture the ideal hockey player, "Mr. Hockey" was who you'd likely picture. A tough-as-nail-take-no-crap from anyone on the ice player who also put up points at will. The amazing thing about him was that he was able to maintain the hard-nose style and point totals for so long. Over 26 seasons in the NHL, Gordie managed to score 801 goal and 1049 assists for 1850 points. It's even more impressive that in 6 WHA season (when he was well into his forties), he put up a 174-334-508 stat line. His accolades include 4 Stanley Cups, 6 Hart and 6 Art Ross trophies, and named to the first- or second-all star team 20 times.
The stats and awards are impressive enough, but there is so much more that adds to the lore of Gordie Howe. His nickname changed from "Mr. Elbows" to "Mr. Hockey", getting his own hockey term (Gordie How Hat Trick) and doing the ultimate family thing by playing with his sons Mark and Marty in a top professional league. This is on top of the fact there are hundreds (probably thousands) of stories of what he's done to opponents on the ice.
While he had a mean-streak on the ice, off the ice was a different story. While I've never had the chance to meet the legend, there are thousands who have. All the ones I've seen/heard about are nothing but how kind and how much of a class act he was.
Rest In Peace Gordie Howe, there will never be another one like you.
Friday, June 24, 2016
Monday, June 20, 2016
2016 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Series Review: (P3) San Jose Sharks vs. (W1) Nashville Predators
The series between the upsets. San Jose for beating Los Angeles in five games, and Nashville for shocking Anaheim in seven. This series was about the home teams, and if you were one, you'd win the game. San Jose got out to a 2-0 series lead thanks to a decisive win and a close one. It was Nashville's turn for the next two, doing it in similar style (with the close game needing three overtimes to decide a winner). The Sharks won the next game at home 5-1, pushing the Predators closer to elimination. Needing a win at home to survive, Nashville did just that, albeit in a game that was a little too close for comfort. Game 7 was all San Jose on the scoreboard, as for the third time in the series, the Sharks scored five times in a game. Martin Jones earned a shutout in the final game as well. The San Jose Sharks eliminated the Nashville Predators in seven games, and move on to the Western Conference Final.
Games
Nashville Predators 2 - San Jose Sharks 5
It looked like the home team struck early in the game, as a turnover over five minutes in led to Melker Karlsson getting a breakaway. He would get a shot off, but it needed to be reviewed, as Anthony Bitetto slid into Pekke Rinne, dislodging the net. The review showed that Karlsson's shot never went in, even after the net was off its moorings. The game remained 0-0, and stayed that way for the rest of the period, as both teams could failed to find the back of the net. An early powerplay in the second helped the Predators open the scoring. Mike Fisher would receive a rink-wide pass and proceed to beat Jones with a shot over his shoulder. The Sharks pushed for most of the period, but could not tie the game. Nashville headed into the second intermission up 1-0. San Jose would get an early powerplay in the third, and took advantage of it. Tomas Hertl beat Rinne short side, tying the game 1-1. The Sharks continued to press, and were rewarded midway through the period. Joel Ward would find himself on a breakaway, and managed to out-wait Rinne, tucking the puck past a beaten Predators goaltender. Minutes later, San Jose was back on the powerplay. Logan Couture tipped Joe Pavelski's pass into the Predators net on the man advantage, extending the Sharks lead. Nashville had a late pushed, and pulled Rinne with under three minutes remaining. They managed to get one, as Roman Josi's point shot banked off a Shark defender's foot, hit Ryan Johansen, and found the back of the Sharks net. That was all Nashville could muster through. Couture added an empty netter to cap off the scoring. San Jose went on to win 5-2, taking a 1-0 series lead.
Nashville Predators 2 - San Jose Sharks 3
The first period in this game was similar to the one in the previous game: both teams got shots, but neither did much in the way of putting one in the net. The first period went by with both San Jose and Nashville still tied 0-0. The start of the second was much better, starting with Couture getting stopped on a partial breakaway. The rebound went right to Joonas Donskoi, and while he got a shot at an open net, Rinne managed to slide over just in time to prevent a goal. Both teams would go back-and-forth in shots, but again neither team could score. Late in the period, Nashville would get called for too many men. They tried to get out of it though, as Josi attempted to jump into the Sharks bench. It did not work, and San Jose went on a powerplay. It was what the Sharks needed to open the scoring. Brent Burns' point shot was stopped, but Couture potted home the rebound, putting the Sharks up 1-0. It stayed that way to end the second period. San Jose got the best chance early in the third, with Couture and Nick Spaling on a 2-on-1 while shorthanded. Spaling got a stick on the pass from Couture, but Rinne made the save to preserve the one-goal game. The Predators started to push back, and would tie the game midway through the third, thanks to Mattias Ekholm. While Nashville kept pushing, it was San Jose who managed to get the next goal. Pavelski buried a rebound to put the Sharks back in the lead. Joe Thornton added an empty netter moments later to make it 3-1. The game didn't end that way, as Johansen scored with seconds left in the game. The remaining four seconds ticked off, and San Jose officially won the game 3-2, extending their series lead.
San Jose Sharks 1 - Nashville Predators 4
Nashville came out firing, thanks in no small part to an early powerplay. They could not best Jones though, as the game remained goalless. It wasn't until later in the period when the first goa lwas scored. Patrick Marleau raced past two Predators, collected the loose puck, and deked past Rinne en route to sliding the puck into the open net. Nashville looked to tie the game, but could not do so, as San Jose ended the first period up 1-0. The Predators caught a break early in the second, as Donskoi was given a double-minor for high-sticking. Nashville did manage to get a goal on the four-minute man advantage. James Neal (who drew the penalty) one-timed a pass from Ekholm into the Sharks net, tying the game. Nashville kept it up, but it wasn't until play went to 4-on-4 when they struck again. Shea Weber blasted a loose puck past Jones, putting the Predators in the lead. The Sharks got a powerplay late in the period, but Rinne would not let anything by him. This time, it was Nashville who ended a period up a goal. San Jose kept pressing in the third, with their best chance squeaking by Rinne, but sliding across the crease instead of into the net. The Predators added to their lead minutes later, as Colin Wilson put home a loose puck. The Sharks kept pressing, but their efforts were all for naught. A powerplay goal by Filip Forsberg capped off the scoring. Nashville took Game 3 by a score of 4-1, pulling them to within a game of tying the series.
San Jose Sharks 3 - Nashville Predators 4 (3OT)
Goals came early in this one. Just 41 seconds into the game, Wilson buried a rebound to give the Predators the lead. It didn't take long for the Sharks to respond. Moments later, Burns' shot found it's way past Rinne, tying the game. The tie lasted until the halfway mark of the period. Neal's slapshot would be turned aside by Jones, but Mike Fisher was right there to pot home the rebound, restoring the lead for Nashville. A late powerplay gave the Predators the chance to extend their lead, but they failed to do so. The period ended with Nashville up 2-1 on San Jose. The Sharks pushed for a tying goal early in the second, but even with a 4-on-4 chance, could not tie the game until later in the period. During the waning seconds of a powerplay, Donskoi one-timed the puck past Rinne. A late powerplay for the Predators did do anything for them, as the second period ended with both teams tied 2-2. Both teams swapped powerplays early in the third, with Nashville getting more chances on theirs. San Jose didn't get much going on their first powerplay, but would correct that moments later when they got another man advantage. Only three seconds into it, Burns point shot found its way through Rinne and into the net, giving the Sharks their first lead of the game. The Predators pushed back, looking to tie the game. They would do so later in the period. Ryan Ellis' shot would be blocked, but the puck bounced right to Neal, who had no problem putting the puck into the Sharks net. It stayed tied 3-3 as the third period buzzer went, meaning overtime was needed to find a winner. Nashville pushed to end it early, as their best chance saw Johansen hit the far post on his shot. San Jose would find the back of the net over eight minutes into the extra frame. A rush ended with Joe Pavelski swiping the puck into the Predators net with his stick. The goal was immediately waved off, as seconds before, Pavelski barged into Rinne, taking him completely out of the play. The shots were relatively even, but one extra period was not enough for both teams. A second overtime would be played. An early powerplay gave the Predators a chance to end it, but they could not capitalize on it. The Sharks controlled play for most of the fifth period, getting a couple great chances. Rinne was there though, keeping the puck out of the net. A second overtime was not enough, as a third overtime would be played in this marathon game. Marleau had a chance to end the game early in the period, but his wraparound attempt slid right through the crease. The Sharks once again control the puck most of the time, and even got a powerplay, but it would be the Predators who ended the game. Mike Fisher collected a rebound and beat Jones 11 minutes into the sixth period. Nashville's 4-3 win tied the series 2-2.
Nashville Predators 1 - San Jose Sharks 5
The Sharks were on the attack from the get-go, and got multiple chances to open the scoring. It wasn't until midway through the first when they did so. Donskoi's pass into the slot found a streaking Marleau, who wasted no time shooting the puck past Rinne to make it 1-0 for the Sharks. The lead stood for five minutes, as Fisher finished off a tic-tac-toe play to tie the game. San Jose pressed to regian the lead, and would be successful. The Joes (Thornton and Pavelski) connected, with Pavelski being the one to get the goal. The Sharks kept up the attack, but would not score for the rest of the period, as they heading into the first intermission up 2-1. It didn't take long for San Jose to add to their lead in the second. Couture would be hit with a pass and headed up on a breakaway. He managed to slide the puck through Rinne. making it 3-1 for the home team. Nashville started to push back, but could not get much for chances in the period. A late powerplay for San Jose resulted in Pavelski scoring his second of the game. The second period ended with the Sharks up 4-1. Nashville continued to push in the third, looking for a way to get back into the game. It got heated later in the period. Hertl's wraparound attempt was stopped, but kept jamming away at the puck, which created a crowd. Minor penalties were exchanged, with Johansen and Mike Ribeiro getting misconduct penalties as well. Carter Hutton would replace Rinne after the dust settled. Melker Karlsson scored in the last minute of the game to cap it. San Jose won 5-1, giving them a 3-2 series lead.
San Jose Sharks 3 - Nashville Predators 4 (OT)
It took a couple of minutes, but San Jose would take control early in the first. They would get the first goal of the game midway through the first, as Chris Tierney deflected Marc-Edouard Vlasic's point shot past Rinne. It was reviewed as Tierney's stick was high, but it was determined to be not high enough to wave off the goal. Just two minutes later, Tierney was at it again, burying a rebound to make it 2-0 for the Sharks. The Predators managed to get one minutes later, as Josi's backhander found it's way past Jones. A push by Nashville late in the period wasn't enough. San Jose ended the fist period up 2-1. The teams started the period 4-on-4, thanks to a couple of roughing penalties late in the first. This was favourable for Nashville, as they managed to score with the opened-up ice. Johansen deked into the slot and slid a backhander past Jones, tying the game. The Predators kept up their play, looking to take the lead. Despite dominating the puck for the last five minutes, Nashville could not take the lead. Both teams heading into the second intermission tied 2-2. The Predators kept pushing to start the third, but even a powerplay was of little help to them. The Sharks got a powerplay of their own midway through the period, and took advantage of it. The puck moved around and found Couture, who had no problem beating a downed Rinne. The Sharks would not be in the lead for long. Just under three minutes later, Wilson finished off a tic-tac-toe play to tie the game. It was all Nashville after that, as the home team looked to win the game and push the series to the distance. They didn't score for the rest of the third though, as regulation ended with both team tied 3-3. Overtime was needed, but unlike last time, it wasn't a marathon. Just two minutes into the extra frame, Viktor Arvidsson skated into the Sharks zone and beat Jones with a backhander from the faceoff dot. Nashville's 4-3 win in overtime helped them tie the series 3-3, and made it go to a Game 7.
Nashville Predators 0 - San Jose Sharks 5
Much like Game 5, it was the Sharks were on the attack. While they racked up the shots, they needed a powerplay midway through the first to open the scoring. Pavelski snapped a shot past Rinne on the man advantage, giving San Jose a 1-0 lead. the Sharks kept it up, and would be rewarded later in the period. Joel Ward would poke the puck past a defender, skate in, and slide the puck through Rinne and into the net. San Jose ended the first period up 2-0. Just 36 seconds into the second period, Couture would collect a bouncing puck and snap it by Rinne. Nashville started to push back, looking for a way to get on the board. Despite their efforts, it would not happen in the second. San Jose was still in the lead after 40 minutes, this time by a score of 3-0. The Sharks had a powerplay to start the third, and did not waste that opportunity. Couture's initial shot was stopped, but Thornton was there to poke home the rebound. Just three minutes later, Marleau finished off a 2-on-1 with Couture, scoring the Sharks fifth goal of the game. The massive deficit did not deter Nashville's efforts, as they continued to press for a goal. One was never scored, as Jones did everything he could to keep the puck out of the net. San Jose went on to win the game 5-0, and clinched the series 4-3.
Three Thoughts on the Series
The Sharks new secret weapon: Joe Paw-velski
Highlight of the Series
Old Man Marleau can still wheel past all those youngsters. OK, so Josi and Weber aren't exactly young, but still pretty impressive by Marleau.
Games
Nashville Predators 2 - San Jose Sharks 5
It looked like the home team struck early in the game, as a turnover over five minutes in led to Melker Karlsson getting a breakaway. He would get a shot off, but it needed to be reviewed, as Anthony Bitetto slid into Pekke Rinne, dislodging the net. The review showed that Karlsson's shot never went in, even after the net was off its moorings. The game remained 0-0, and stayed that way for the rest of the period, as both teams could failed to find the back of the net. An early powerplay in the second helped the Predators open the scoring. Mike Fisher would receive a rink-wide pass and proceed to beat Jones with a shot over his shoulder. The Sharks pushed for most of the period, but could not tie the game. Nashville headed into the second intermission up 1-0. San Jose would get an early powerplay in the third, and took advantage of it. Tomas Hertl beat Rinne short side, tying the game 1-1. The Sharks continued to press, and were rewarded midway through the period. Joel Ward would find himself on a breakaway, and managed to out-wait Rinne, tucking the puck past a beaten Predators goaltender. Minutes later, San Jose was back on the powerplay. Logan Couture tipped Joe Pavelski's pass into the Predators net on the man advantage, extending the Sharks lead. Nashville had a late pushed, and pulled Rinne with under three minutes remaining. They managed to get one, as Roman Josi's point shot banked off a Shark defender's foot, hit Ryan Johansen, and found the back of the Sharks net. That was all Nashville could muster through. Couture added an empty netter to cap off the scoring. San Jose went on to win 5-2, taking a 1-0 series lead.
Nashville Predators 2 - San Jose Sharks 3
The first period in this game was similar to the one in the previous game: both teams got shots, but neither did much in the way of putting one in the net. The first period went by with both San Jose and Nashville still tied 0-0. The start of the second was much better, starting with Couture getting stopped on a partial breakaway. The rebound went right to Joonas Donskoi, and while he got a shot at an open net, Rinne managed to slide over just in time to prevent a goal. Both teams would go back-and-forth in shots, but again neither team could score. Late in the period, Nashville would get called for too many men. They tried to get out of it though, as Josi attempted to jump into the Sharks bench. It did not work, and San Jose went on a powerplay. It was what the Sharks needed to open the scoring. Brent Burns' point shot was stopped, but Couture potted home the rebound, putting the Sharks up 1-0. It stayed that way to end the second period. San Jose got the best chance early in the third, with Couture and Nick Spaling on a 2-on-1 while shorthanded. Spaling got a stick on the pass from Couture, but Rinne made the save to preserve the one-goal game. The Predators started to push back, and would tie the game midway through the third, thanks to Mattias Ekholm. While Nashville kept pushing, it was San Jose who managed to get the next goal. Pavelski buried a rebound to put the Sharks back in the lead. Joe Thornton added an empty netter moments later to make it 3-1. The game didn't end that way, as Johansen scored with seconds left in the game. The remaining four seconds ticked off, and San Jose officially won the game 3-2, extending their series lead.
San Jose Sharks 1 - Nashville Predators 4
Nashville came out firing, thanks in no small part to an early powerplay. They could not best Jones though, as the game remained goalless. It wasn't until later in the period when the first goa lwas scored. Patrick Marleau raced past two Predators, collected the loose puck, and deked past Rinne en route to sliding the puck into the open net. Nashville looked to tie the game, but could not do so, as San Jose ended the first period up 1-0. The Predators caught a break early in the second, as Donskoi was given a double-minor for high-sticking. Nashville did manage to get a goal on the four-minute man advantage. James Neal (who drew the penalty) one-timed a pass from Ekholm into the Sharks net, tying the game. Nashville kept it up, but it wasn't until play went to 4-on-4 when they struck again. Shea Weber blasted a loose puck past Jones, putting the Predators in the lead. The Sharks got a powerplay late in the period, but Rinne would not let anything by him. This time, it was Nashville who ended a period up a goal. San Jose kept pressing in the third, with their best chance squeaking by Rinne, but sliding across the crease instead of into the net. The Predators added to their lead minutes later, as Colin Wilson put home a loose puck. The Sharks kept pressing, but their efforts were all for naught. A powerplay goal by Filip Forsberg capped off the scoring. Nashville took Game 3 by a score of 4-1, pulling them to within a game of tying the series.
San Jose Sharks 3 - Nashville Predators 4 (3OT)
Goals came early in this one. Just 41 seconds into the game, Wilson buried a rebound to give the Predators the lead. It didn't take long for the Sharks to respond. Moments later, Burns' shot found it's way past Rinne, tying the game. The tie lasted until the halfway mark of the period. Neal's slapshot would be turned aside by Jones, but Mike Fisher was right there to pot home the rebound, restoring the lead for Nashville. A late powerplay gave the Predators the chance to extend their lead, but they failed to do so. The period ended with Nashville up 2-1 on San Jose. The Sharks pushed for a tying goal early in the second, but even with a 4-on-4 chance, could not tie the game until later in the period. During the waning seconds of a powerplay, Donskoi one-timed the puck past Rinne. A late powerplay for the Predators did do anything for them, as the second period ended with both teams tied 2-2. Both teams swapped powerplays early in the third, with Nashville getting more chances on theirs. San Jose didn't get much going on their first powerplay, but would correct that moments later when they got another man advantage. Only three seconds into it, Burns point shot found its way through Rinne and into the net, giving the Sharks their first lead of the game. The Predators pushed back, looking to tie the game. They would do so later in the period. Ryan Ellis' shot would be blocked, but the puck bounced right to Neal, who had no problem putting the puck into the Sharks net. It stayed tied 3-3 as the third period buzzer went, meaning overtime was needed to find a winner. Nashville pushed to end it early, as their best chance saw Johansen hit the far post on his shot. San Jose would find the back of the net over eight minutes into the extra frame. A rush ended with Joe Pavelski swiping the puck into the Predators net with his stick. The goal was immediately waved off, as seconds before, Pavelski barged into Rinne, taking him completely out of the play. The shots were relatively even, but one extra period was not enough for both teams. A second overtime would be played. An early powerplay gave the Predators a chance to end it, but they could not capitalize on it. The Sharks controlled play for most of the fifth period, getting a couple great chances. Rinne was there though, keeping the puck out of the net. A second overtime was not enough, as a third overtime would be played in this marathon game. Marleau had a chance to end the game early in the period, but his wraparound attempt slid right through the crease. The Sharks once again control the puck most of the time, and even got a powerplay, but it would be the Predators who ended the game. Mike Fisher collected a rebound and beat Jones 11 minutes into the sixth period. Nashville's 4-3 win tied the series 2-2.
Nashville Predators 1 - San Jose Sharks 5
The Sharks were on the attack from the get-go, and got multiple chances to open the scoring. It wasn't until midway through the first when they did so. Donskoi's pass into the slot found a streaking Marleau, who wasted no time shooting the puck past Rinne to make it 1-0 for the Sharks. The lead stood for five minutes, as Fisher finished off a tic-tac-toe play to tie the game. San Jose pressed to regian the lead, and would be successful. The Joes (Thornton and Pavelski) connected, with Pavelski being the one to get the goal. The Sharks kept up the attack, but would not score for the rest of the period, as they heading into the first intermission up 2-1. It didn't take long for San Jose to add to their lead in the second. Couture would be hit with a pass and headed up on a breakaway. He managed to slide the puck through Rinne. making it 3-1 for the home team. Nashville started to push back, but could not get much for chances in the period. A late powerplay for San Jose resulted in Pavelski scoring his second of the game. The second period ended with the Sharks up 4-1. Nashville continued to push in the third, looking for a way to get back into the game. It got heated later in the period. Hertl's wraparound attempt was stopped, but kept jamming away at the puck, which created a crowd. Minor penalties were exchanged, with Johansen and Mike Ribeiro getting misconduct penalties as well. Carter Hutton would replace Rinne after the dust settled. Melker Karlsson scored in the last minute of the game to cap it. San Jose won 5-1, giving them a 3-2 series lead.
San Jose Sharks 3 - Nashville Predators 4 (OT)
It took a couple of minutes, but San Jose would take control early in the first. They would get the first goal of the game midway through the first, as Chris Tierney deflected Marc-Edouard Vlasic's point shot past Rinne. It was reviewed as Tierney's stick was high, but it was determined to be not high enough to wave off the goal. Just two minutes later, Tierney was at it again, burying a rebound to make it 2-0 for the Sharks. The Predators managed to get one minutes later, as Josi's backhander found it's way past Jones. A push by Nashville late in the period wasn't enough. San Jose ended the fist period up 2-1. The teams started the period 4-on-4, thanks to a couple of roughing penalties late in the first. This was favourable for Nashville, as they managed to score with the opened-up ice. Johansen deked into the slot and slid a backhander past Jones, tying the game. The Predators kept up their play, looking to take the lead. Despite dominating the puck for the last five minutes, Nashville could not take the lead. Both teams heading into the second intermission tied 2-2. The Predators kept pushing to start the third, but even a powerplay was of little help to them. The Sharks got a powerplay of their own midway through the period, and took advantage of it. The puck moved around and found Couture, who had no problem beating a downed Rinne. The Sharks would not be in the lead for long. Just under three minutes later, Wilson finished off a tic-tac-toe play to tie the game. It was all Nashville after that, as the home team looked to win the game and push the series to the distance. They didn't score for the rest of the third though, as regulation ended with both team tied 3-3. Overtime was needed, but unlike last time, it wasn't a marathon. Just two minutes into the extra frame, Viktor Arvidsson skated into the Sharks zone and beat Jones with a backhander from the faceoff dot. Nashville's 4-3 win in overtime helped them tie the series 3-3, and made it go to a Game 7.
Nashville Predators 0 - San Jose Sharks 5
Much like Game 5, it was the Sharks were on the attack. While they racked up the shots, they needed a powerplay midway through the first to open the scoring. Pavelski snapped a shot past Rinne on the man advantage, giving San Jose a 1-0 lead. the Sharks kept it up, and would be rewarded later in the period. Joel Ward would poke the puck past a defender, skate in, and slide the puck through Rinne and into the net. San Jose ended the first period up 2-0. Just 36 seconds into the second period, Couture would collect a bouncing puck and snap it by Rinne. Nashville started to push back, looking for a way to get on the board. Despite their efforts, it would not happen in the second. San Jose was still in the lead after 40 minutes, this time by a score of 3-0. The Sharks had a powerplay to start the third, and did not waste that opportunity. Couture's initial shot was stopped, but Thornton was there to poke home the rebound. Just three minutes later, Marleau finished off a 2-on-1 with Couture, scoring the Sharks fifth goal of the game. The massive deficit did not deter Nashville's efforts, as they continued to press for a goal. One was never scored, as Jones did everything he could to keep the puck out of the net. San Jose went on to win the game 5-0, and clinched the series 4-3.
Three Thoughts on the Series
- Have to give a ton of credit to Nashville. They weren't expected to do much in the first round, and ended up being a game away from the Western Conference Final.
- It ended up being a decent series, but the ending was a letdown.
- While I'm glad the Sharks won, part of me wonders how cool it would have been to see the Predators get to the third round for the first time in franchise history.
The Sharks new secret weapon: Joe Paw-velski
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| (Picture via NHL.com) |
Highlight of the Series
Old Man Marleau can still wheel past all those youngsters. OK, so Josi and Weber aren't exactly young, but still pretty impressive by Marleau.
Sunday, June 12, 2016
2016 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Series Review: (C1) Dallas Stars vs. (C2) St. Louis Blues
It was a series of polar-opposite styles. The Dallas Stars won the Central Division based on a high-flying offense, while the St. Louis Blues finished second in the division playing a structured defense. It also featured questions in net, for both teams. Dallas moreso than St. Louis, as the Stars swapped between Kari Lehtonen and Antti Niemi on multiple occasions, while the Blues had Jake Allen replace Brian Elliott only once (but there were speculation that Allen would start Game Seven). The end saw the more defensive team win out, as the St. Louis Blues eliminated the Dallas Stars in seven games, and move on to the conference finals for the first time since 2001.
Games
St. Louis Blues 1 - Dallas Stars 2
It didn't take long for penalties to happen in this series, starting off with Brian Elliott being called for delay of game. Just a minute later, Jamie Benn would sit down for cross-checking. 4-on-4 wouldn't result in much, and St. Louis started to take control when their powerplay happened. Even when the game went back to 5-on-5, the Blues could not break the tie. Dallas took over in the second half, peppering Elliott with shots. Elliott stood tall though, stopping everything that came his way. A late powerplay wasn't much help to Dallas, as both teams remained tied 0-0 after 20 minutes. The Stars started the second on the attack, but it wasn't the midway mark when they broke the deadlock. A rush lead to Radek Faksa getting a good chance from the slot, but he was stopped. The rebound would be whacked home by Antoine Roussel, putting Dallas in the lead. The Stars kept it up for the rest of the period, but failed to extend their lead. The second period ended with Dallas up by one. Both teams went at it in the third, but it was a while until one of them struck. After scrambling in front of the Stars net, the Blues moved the puck back to the point. Colton Parayko passed to Kevin Shattenkirk, who one-timed the puck past Kari Lehtonen. The goal gave St. Louis some momentum, as they controlled play for a bit after scoring. Dallas managed to weather that storm, and would find their way back into the lead. Just under five minutes remaining, Ales Hemsky received the puck and cut across the top of the crease. His attempt was stopped, but Faksa was there to bury the rebound. St Louis could not muster up much, as Dallas went on to win the opening game 2-1.
St. Louis Blues 4 - Dallas Stars 3 (OT)
Scoring came early and often in this game. Alex Goligoski pinched in the one-timed the puck over Elliott, putting the Stars on the board first. St. Louis responded 35 seconds later, as Patrik Berglund blasted one past Lehtonen to tie the game. Minutes later, Troy Brouwer connected with Joel Edmundson to put the Blues in the lead. The Stars pressed for a tying goal, but were unsuccessful. A powerplay late in the period resulted in Brouwer scoring. Despite only getting five shots in the period, St. Louis was up 3-1 after the first. A goalie change was needed, as Antti Niemi went in to relieve Lehtonen. Niemi solidified the Stars in net, stopping whatever chances the Blues got. Elliott was just as solid at the other end, as the second period was scoreless. The game remined 3-1 for the Blues after 40 minutes. The Stars started clawing back, starting with Mattias Janmark skated in on a breakaway and beat Elliott. St. Louis had a few chances later in the period, but the last six minutes was all Dallas. The pressure the Stars put on the Blues eventually paid off, with Jamie Benn getting a loose puck in front of the net and beating a downed Elliott, tying the game. The remaining two-plus minute went by, as regulation ended with both teams tied 3-3. An extra frame was needed to decide a winner. The Blues got a break early with a powerplay, but could not convert on the opportunity. The Stars would take over at even strength, but could not find the back of the net. Just under 11 minutes into overtime, Dallas would get another penalty, as Roussel was called for interference. This time, St. Louis made good on the man advantage. Alexander Steen's shot was stopped, but Berglund was right there to tuck home the rebound. The 4-3 overtime win helped St. Louis tie the series 1-1.
Dallas Stars 1 - St. Louis Blues 6
Niemi played so well last game that he got the start for the Stars in this one. It took a few minutes, but eventually both teams started going at it. Just under five minutes in, Dallas would strike. Jason Spezza had his first shot blocked, but he managed to get the puck back and beat Elliott. A minute after that, Steen found the back of the net to tie the game. Chances were exchanged, but the next goal didn't come until late in the period. A powerplay for the Blues resulted in David Backes tipping Shattenkirk's shot past Niemi and into the net. Dallas thought they scored late in the period to tie the game, but review showed that Jason Demers' shot it the crossbar. St. Louis ended the first period up 2-1. It didn't take long for the Blues to extend their lead in the second. Brouwer skated around the Dallas defense and tucked the puck over Niemi. That was it for Niemi, as Lehtonen went into the net for the Stars. He did not have a good start. A turnover in the Stars zone resulted in Vladimir Tarasenko's pass hitting a Stars defender and beating Lehtonen (who was in the net for just over a minute). Dallas had a few shots after that, but St. Louis would take over later in the period. A powerplay late in the period gave the Blues the chance to add to their lead. Lehtonen got most of Steen's shot, but not all of it, as the puck managed to trickle by and into the net. It was 5-1 for the Blues after 40 minutes, as the game looked to be slipping away for the Stars. Play would be relatively even in the third. It got rough late though, as Stephen John's boarding penalty led to Curtis McKenzie and Ryan Reeves dropping the gloves. A penalty by Brouwer dropped play to 4-on-4. It ended up favouring the Blues, as Backes managed to skate in alone and wrist it past Lehtonen. The end result was a 6-1 blowout by St. Louis, meaning that they now led the series 2-1.
Dallas Stars 3 - St. Louis Blues 2 (OT)
St. Louis had a rush of shots early on, but Dallas soon took over thanks to a powerplay. The Stars failed to convert on the man advantage, as the game remained 0-0. Midway through the period, Tarasenko would find himself alone in on a breakaway. He made good on the attempt, beating Lehtonen five-hole to open the scoring. The Blues picked up their play from there, getting a couple premium chances in the process. Tarasenko's goal would be the only one of the period though, as St. Louis headed into the intermission up 1-0. Edmundson gave a gift to the Stars early in the second, as his breakout pass went right to Faksa. The Czech center would turn that turnover into a goal, beating Elliott to tie the game. Just seconds later, Backes took a penalty, putting Dallas on the powerplay. They made good this time around, as Patrick Sharp buried a rebound. The Stars would hold the lead for a bit, while the Blues pushed to tie the game. A 4-on-3 helped St. Louis tie the game midway through the second. Paul Stastny tipped Tarasenko's shot past Lehtonen, making it 2-2. Shots were exchanged, but the score stayed the same, as both teams ended the second tied. Steen had a great chances early in the third, toe-dragging around a Stars defender, but could not get a lot on his shot. While both teams exchanged chances for the rest of the period, neither found the back of the net. The score remained 2-2 after the third, meaning overtime was needed. This one ended relatively early, as Cody Eakin's shot went over Elliott's shoulder and into the net. The 3-2 overtime win helped Dallas tie the series 2-2.
St. Louis Blues 4 - Dallas Stars 1
While shots were exchanged early on, it ended up being a pass that found the back of a net. Robby Fabbri's pass through the slot would hit the skate of a Stars player and slide past Lehtonen, putting the Blues in the lead. Dallas would respond minutes later, as Goligoski beat Elliott high glove. The rest of the period was mainly Dallas, as St. Louis failed to register a shot in the last six minutes. The first period ended with both teams tied 1-1. It wasn't until halfway through the second when St. Louis broke the deadlock. Dmitrij Jaskin's first shot was stopped, but scored on the rebound, tucking it between Lehtonen and the post. The Stars had a bit of a push after that, but St. Louis would control most of the later half of the second. It resulted in another goal for St. Louis. Lehtonen managed to slide over to stop Stastny's shot, but Brouwer was right in home to put the rebound home. The Blues ended the second period up 3-1. The Stars were in control in the third, looking to get back into it. Despite a couple of early chances and a few powerplay opportunities, Dallas did not have an answer for Elliott. The Blues netminder stood tall in the period, stopping 12 shots. Stastny would seal the game for the Blues with an empty netter. St. Louis took the game 4-1, giving them a 3-2 series lead.
Dallas Stars 3 - St. Louis Blues 2
Facing elimination, Dallas wasn't playing like they wanted to survive. Despite that, they managed to get the first goal of the game. Janmark would beat Elliott high glove five minutes into the game, putting the Stars up 1-0. That score only lasted 20 seconds, as Vernon Fiddler redirected Colton Sceviour's pass over Elliott and just enough into the net, making it 2-0. The Blues would get back on track and control play in the later half of the first. Again though, it was the Stars who found the back of the net. A powerplay late in the period resulted in Spezza skating in, toe-dragging a defender, and snapping it past Elliott. That spelled the end of Elliott's night, as Jake Allen came on in relieve. The shots in the first were only 9-7 in favour of the Blues, but the scoreboard favoured the Stars 3-0 after the first. It was much of the same in the second, with St. Louis controlling the puck. It took over seven minutes into the period, but the Blues efforts finally had a positive result. Lehtonen stopped Roberto Bertuzzo's shot, but kicked the rebound right to Steen. The Blues forward made no mistake, putting the puck into the net to get St. Louis' first goal of the game. That was all they got in the second, as the period ended with Dallas still up 3-1. Another period, another Blues-controlled one. An early powerplay didn't help them though, as Lehtonen did all he could to keep the Stars in the lead. St. Louis would break through near the midway point of the period. Some nifty passing in the Stars zone resulted in Berglund burying a goal from in close, pulling the Blues to within a goal. St. Louis kept pressing, looking to tie the game. Lehtonen was not having it though, and ended up stopping 35 of 37 shots in the game. Dallas hung on to win 3-2, pushing the series to a Game Seven.
St. Louis Blues 6 - Dallas Stars 1
It took just over five minutes for the scoring to start in this one thanks to a powerplay. Fabbri would jam home the puck on the man advantage, putting the Blues up 1-0. The Stars would push back and take over the middle part of the period, but were unsuccessful in their efforts to tie the game. Tarasenko looked to have extended the Blues lead later in the period, but it was challenged for offside. A review determined that Tarasenko lifted his skate just before the puck entered the zone, resulting in the goal getting nullified. It didn't take long for the Blues to make up for it though, as Stastny beat Lehtonen from a sharp angle to officially make it 2-0 for St. Louis. Berglund added one more in the dying seconds of the period. The Blues ended the first period up 3-0. The second period started with a change for the Stars, as Niemi once again took over goaltending duties for Lehtonen. Dallas pressed early, looking to get on the board. Sceviour had the best chance, getting a shot at an open net. Unfortunately for him, Elliott recovered and made a toe save, keeping the puck out of the net. A minute later, St. Louis took the puck up ice. Backes would skate in and beat Niemi from the faceoff dot, extending the Blues lead. The Stars kept at it though, but Elliott kept them off the scoreboard. Brouwer would add one more for the Blues later in the period. Heading into the second intermission, St .Louis led Dallas by a score of 5-0. The Stars finally got on the board five minutes into the third. Goligoski's shot banked off a Blues defender and right to Patrick Eaves at the side of the net. Eaves had no problem in putting the puck into the net. The Stars kept on pressing, and would pull Niemi for an extra attacker with about six minutes left in the third. That didn't help, as Tarasenko scored on the empty net. St. Louis blew out Dallas 6-1, taking the series 4-3.
Three Thoughts on the Series
The new star of the Blues: Tony X.
Highlight of the Series
Just look how open Tarasenko was on this goal. He wasn't even getting out of the penalty box.
Games
St. Louis Blues 1 - Dallas Stars 2
It didn't take long for penalties to happen in this series, starting off with Brian Elliott being called for delay of game. Just a minute later, Jamie Benn would sit down for cross-checking. 4-on-4 wouldn't result in much, and St. Louis started to take control when their powerplay happened. Even when the game went back to 5-on-5, the Blues could not break the tie. Dallas took over in the second half, peppering Elliott with shots. Elliott stood tall though, stopping everything that came his way. A late powerplay wasn't much help to Dallas, as both teams remained tied 0-0 after 20 minutes. The Stars started the second on the attack, but it wasn't the midway mark when they broke the deadlock. A rush lead to Radek Faksa getting a good chance from the slot, but he was stopped. The rebound would be whacked home by Antoine Roussel, putting Dallas in the lead. The Stars kept it up for the rest of the period, but failed to extend their lead. The second period ended with Dallas up by one. Both teams went at it in the third, but it was a while until one of them struck. After scrambling in front of the Stars net, the Blues moved the puck back to the point. Colton Parayko passed to Kevin Shattenkirk, who one-timed the puck past Kari Lehtonen. The goal gave St. Louis some momentum, as they controlled play for a bit after scoring. Dallas managed to weather that storm, and would find their way back into the lead. Just under five minutes remaining, Ales Hemsky received the puck and cut across the top of the crease. His attempt was stopped, but Faksa was there to bury the rebound. St Louis could not muster up much, as Dallas went on to win the opening game 2-1.
St. Louis Blues 4 - Dallas Stars 3 (OT)
Scoring came early and often in this game. Alex Goligoski pinched in the one-timed the puck over Elliott, putting the Stars on the board first. St. Louis responded 35 seconds later, as Patrik Berglund blasted one past Lehtonen to tie the game. Minutes later, Troy Brouwer connected with Joel Edmundson to put the Blues in the lead. The Stars pressed for a tying goal, but were unsuccessful. A powerplay late in the period resulted in Brouwer scoring. Despite only getting five shots in the period, St. Louis was up 3-1 after the first. A goalie change was needed, as Antti Niemi went in to relieve Lehtonen. Niemi solidified the Stars in net, stopping whatever chances the Blues got. Elliott was just as solid at the other end, as the second period was scoreless. The game remined 3-1 for the Blues after 40 minutes. The Stars started clawing back, starting with Mattias Janmark skated in on a breakaway and beat Elliott. St. Louis had a few chances later in the period, but the last six minutes was all Dallas. The pressure the Stars put on the Blues eventually paid off, with Jamie Benn getting a loose puck in front of the net and beating a downed Elliott, tying the game. The remaining two-plus minute went by, as regulation ended with both teams tied 3-3. An extra frame was needed to decide a winner. The Blues got a break early with a powerplay, but could not convert on the opportunity. The Stars would take over at even strength, but could not find the back of the net. Just under 11 minutes into overtime, Dallas would get another penalty, as Roussel was called for interference. This time, St. Louis made good on the man advantage. Alexander Steen's shot was stopped, but Berglund was right there to tuck home the rebound. The 4-3 overtime win helped St. Louis tie the series 1-1.
Dallas Stars 1 - St. Louis Blues 6
Niemi played so well last game that he got the start for the Stars in this one. It took a few minutes, but eventually both teams started going at it. Just under five minutes in, Dallas would strike. Jason Spezza had his first shot blocked, but he managed to get the puck back and beat Elliott. A minute after that, Steen found the back of the net to tie the game. Chances were exchanged, but the next goal didn't come until late in the period. A powerplay for the Blues resulted in David Backes tipping Shattenkirk's shot past Niemi and into the net. Dallas thought they scored late in the period to tie the game, but review showed that Jason Demers' shot it the crossbar. St. Louis ended the first period up 2-1. It didn't take long for the Blues to extend their lead in the second. Brouwer skated around the Dallas defense and tucked the puck over Niemi. That was it for Niemi, as Lehtonen went into the net for the Stars. He did not have a good start. A turnover in the Stars zone resulted in Vladimir Tarasenko's pass hitting a Stars defender and beating Lehtonen (who was in the net for just over a minute). Dallas had a few shots after that, but St. Louis would take over later in the period. A powerplay late in the period gave the Blues the chance to add to their lead. Lehtonen got most of Steen's shot, but not all of it, as the puck managed to trickle by and into the net. It was 5-1 for the Blues after 40 minutes, as the game looked to be slipping away for the Stars. Play would be relatively even in the third. It got rough late though, as Stephen John's boarding penalty led to Curtis McKenzie and Ryan Reeves dropping the gloves. A penalty by Brouwer dropped play to 4-on-4. It ended up favouring the Blues, as Backes managed to skate in alone and wrist it past Lehtonen. The end result was a 6-1 blowout by St. Louis, meaning that they now led the series 2-1.
Dallas Stars 3 - St. Louis Blues 2 (OT)
St. Louis had a rush of shots early on, but Dallas soon took over thanks to a powerplay. The Stars failed to convert on the man advantage, as the game remained 0-0. Midway through the period, Tarasenko would find himself alone in on a breakaway. He made good on the attempt, beating Lehtonen five-hole to open the scoring. The Blues picked up their play from there, getting a couple premium chances in the process. Tarasenko's goal would be the only one of the period though, as St. Louis headed into the intermission up 1-0. Edmundson gave a gift to the Stars early in the second, as his breakout pass went right to Faksa. The Czech center would turn that turnover into a goal, beating Elliott to tie the game. Just seconds later, Backes took a penalty, putting Dallas on the powerplay. They made good this time around, as Patrick Sharp buried a rebound. The Stars would hold the lead for a bit, while the Blues pushed to tie the game. A 4-on-3 helped St. Louis tie the game midway through the second. Paul Stastny tipped Tarasenko's shot past Lehtonen, making it 2-2. Shots were exchanged, but the score stayed the same, as both teams ended the second tied. Steen had a great chances early in the third, toe-dragging around a Stars defender, but could not get a lot on his shot. While both teams exchanged chances for the rest of the period, neither found the back of the net. The score remained 2-2 after the third, meaning overtime was needed. This one ended relatively early, as Cody Eakin's shot went over Elliott's shoulder and into the net. The 3-2 overtime win helped Dallas tie the series 2-2.
St. Louis Blues 4 - Dallas Stars 1
While shots were exchanged early on, it ended up being a pass that found the back of a net. Robby Fabbri's pass through the slot would hit the skate of a Stars player and slide past Lehtonen, putting the Blues in the lead. Dallas would respond minutes later, as Goligoski beat Elliott high glove. The rest of the period was mainly Dallas, as St. Louis failed to register a shot in the last six minutes. The first period ended with both teams tied 1-1. It wasn't until halfway through the second when St. Louis broke the deadlock. Dmitrij Jaskin's first shot was stopped, but scored on the rebound, tucking it between Lehtonen and the post. The Stars had a bit of a push after that, but St. Louis would control most of the later half of the second. It resulted in another goal for St. Louis. Lehtonen managed to slide over to stop Stastny's shot, but Brouwer was right in home to put the rebound home. The Blues ended the second period up 3-1. The Stars were in control in the third, looking to get back into it. Despite a couple of early chances and a few powerplay opportunities, Dallas did not have an answer for Elliott. The Blues netminder stood tall in the period, stopping 12 shots. Stastny would seal the game for the Blues with an empty netter. St. Louis took the game 4-1, giving them a 3-2 series lead.
Dallas Stars 3 - St. Louis Blues 2
Facing elimination, Dallas wasn't playing like they wanted to survive. Despite that, they managed to get the first goal of the game. Janmark would beat Elliott high glove five minutes into the game, putting the Stars up 1-0. That score only lasted 20 seconds, as Vernon Fiddler redirected Colton Sceviour's pass over Elliott and just enough into the net, making it 2-0. The Blues would get back on track and control play in the later half of the first. Again though, it was the Stars who found the back of the net. A powerplay late in the period resulted in Spezza skating in, toe-dragging a defender, and snapping it past Elliott. That spelled the end of Elliott's night, as Jake Allen came on in relieve. The shots in the first were only 9-7 in favour of the Blues, but the scoreboard favoured the Stars 3-0 after the first. It was much of the same in the second, with St. Louis controlling the puck. It took over seven minutes into the period, but the Blues efforts finally had a positive result. Lehtonen stopped Roberto Bertuzzo's shot, but kicked the rebound right to Steen. The Blues forward made no mistake, putting the puck into the net to get St. Louis' first goal of the game. That was all they got in the second, as the period ended with Dallas still up 3-1. Another period, another Blues-controlled one. An early powerplay didn't help them though, as Lehtonen did all he could to keep the Stars in the lead. St. Louis would break through near the midway point of the period. Some nifty passing in the Stars zone resulted in Berglund burying a goal from in close, pulling the Blues to within a goal. St. Louis kept pressing, looking to tie the game. Lehtonen was not having it though, and ended up stopping 35 of 37 shots in the game. Dallas hung on to win 3-2, pushing the series to a Game Seven.
St. Louis Blues 6 - Dallas Stars 1
It took just over five minutes for the scoring to start in this one thanks to a powerplay. Fabbri would jam home the puck on the man advantage, putting the Blues up 1-0. The Stars would push back and take over the middle part of the period, but were unsuccessful in their efforts to tie the game. Tarasenko looked to have extended the Blues lead later in the period, but it was challenged for offside. A review determined that Tarasenko lifted his skate just before the puck entered the zone, resulting in the goal getting nullified. It didn't take long for the Blues to make up for it though, as Stastny beat Lehtonen from a sharp angle to officially make it 2-0 for St. Louis. Berglund added one more in the dying seconds of the period. The Blues ended the first period up 3-0. The second period started with a change for the Stars, as Niemi once again took over goaltending duties for Lehtonen. Dallas pressed early, looking to get on the board. Sceviour had the best chance, getting a shot at an open net. Unfortunately for him, Elliott recovered and made a toe save, keeping the puck out of the net. A minute later, St. Louis took the puck up ice. Backes would skate in and beat Niemi from the faceoff dot, extending the Blues lead. The Stars kept at it though, but Elliott kept them off the scoreboard. Brouwer would add one more for the Blues later in the period. Heading into the second intermission, St .Louis led Dallas by a score of 5-0. The Stars finally got on the board five minutes into the third. Goligoski's shot banked off a Blues defender and right to Patrick Eaves at the side of the net. Eaves had no problem in putting the puck into the net. The Stars kept on pressing, and would pull Niemi for an extra attacker with about six minutes left in the third. That didn't help, as Tarasenko scored on the empty net. St. Louis blew out Dallas 6-1, taking the series 4-3.
Three Thoughts on the Series
- This goalie carousel Dallas has is good for the regular season, not so much for the playoffs.
- If Seguin was healthy, then the Stars might have squeezed this one out and advanced.
- Hey look, the Blues actually stuck with Elliott and managed to get past the second round. Guess it takes years of bypassing him to realize that.
The new star of the Blues: Tony X.
 |
| (Picture via St. Louis Blues twitter) |
Highlight of the Series
Just look how open Tarasenko was on this goal. He wasn't even getting out of the penalty box.
(Video via NHL26)
Thursday, June 9, 2016
2016 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Series Review: (M1) Washington Capitals vs. (M2) Pittsburgh Penguins
For only the second time ever, it was Ovechkin vs. Crosby. Or at least going into the series, as it was more like Ovechkin vs. Pittsburgh's third line. Carl Hagelin, Nick Bonino, and Phil Kessel (the HBK line) started to gel in this series, taking over offensively for Crosby and Malkin. The duel wasn't just offensively though, as Matt Murray managed to out-goaltend Braden Holtby at times. It was a closer series on the scoreboard though, as five of the six games ended with the winning team up by just a goal. Pittsburgh would be on the winning end of most of those games, as they eliminate Washington in six games.
Games
Pittsburgh Penguins 3 - Washington Capitals 4 (OT)
Pittsburgh started strong in the first five minutes, but the tide started to go in Washington's favour after that. A powerplay kept their momentum going, but they could not find the back of the net on it. Midway through the period, Washington would strike. Pittsburgh turned over the puck on a rush and Washington took it the other way on a 3-on-1. Jason Chimera's shot was stopped, but Andre Burakovsky was there to bury the rebound. The Capitals kept up the pressure, looking to add to their lead, but could not do so. The Penguins' got a turn to go on the man advantage but could not take advantage of the powerplay. The first period ended with Washington up 1-0. Pittsburgh wasn't sitting back, as they come out firing in the second. It took a while, but finally the Penguins broke through. Nick Bonino dangled into the Capitals zone and got a shot on Braden Holtby. Holtby stopped the shot, but Ben Lovejoy was in the right spot to tuck home the rebound and tie the game. Less than a minute later, Evgeni Malkin cut in, received a pass, and backhanded a shot over Holtby's shoulder, making it 2-1 for Pittsburgh. That lead didn't last long, as T.J. Oshie skated in on a breakaway and roofed one past Murray. Shots would be exchanged, but neither team could break the deadlock before the end of the period. It didn't mean there wasn't action though, as Jay Beagle provided some comic relief, getting a stick wedge in his visor. The second period ended with both teams tied 2-2. The tie was broken minutes into the third period. Alexander Ovechkin slid a pass over to Oshie, who managed to beat Matt Murray five-hole. A bit of 4-on-4 was played, with the Penguins dominating on the opened-up ice. Despite that, it wasn't until minutes after when they tied the game. A tic-tac-toe play resulted in Bonino getting the puck in the slot and snapping it past Holtby (his shot may have been deflected by a defender). A powerplay later on gave the Capitals a chance to regain the lead. They came close, as Matt Niskanen hit the post and Chimera could not get enough on the rebound to finish it. A late push by Washington resulted in nothing, as the game was tied 3-3 after 60 minutes. Both teams had about the same number of shots in overtime, but only one of them managed to go into a net. Oshie looked to be the hero for Washington, scoring on a wraparound to complete his hat trick. A review was needed first, and it was determined that the puck crossed the line just enough to count. Washington wins 4-3 in overtime, giving them a 1-0 lead in the series.
Pittsburgh Penguins 2 - Washington Capitals 1
Washington looked to keep their momentum going after winning Game 1. The first period was mostly Pittsburgh's though, as they took control after an early Washington penalty. Even with the man advantage though, the Penguins could not find the back of the net. The Capitals got a few chances of their own late, but Murray was there to stop them. The first period ended as it started, with both teams tied 0-0. Pittsburgh was once again on the attack early in the second thanks to a powerplay. They could not score on the man advantage, but they did get the opening goal later in the period. Nick Bonino went around the net and found an open Carl Hagelin in the slot. Hagelin wasted no time in shooting the puck past Holtby to make it 1-0 Penguins. The Capitals almost tied it up minutes later, but Jason Chimera's shot rang off the far post. Pittsburgh had a couple more powerplays in the period, but could not use them to extend their lead. Washington looked to have tied the game, with Nate Schmidt burying a rebound. The goal was immediately waved off though, as Evgeni Kuznetsov fell down on Murray just before, rendering the goaltender unable to attempt a save. Kuznetsov would get a penalty for goaltending interference, but Washington managed to kill it. The second period ended with Pittsburgh up 1-0. Washington would be the beneficiaries of an early powerplay in the third, and they made good use of it. John Carlson's point shot was blocked and trickled into the crease. Marcus Johansson was in the right spot, tapping home the loose puck to tie the game. Play would go back-and-forth for a while, with the Capitals getting most of the quality chances. It wasn't until there was less than five minutes left when the tied would be broken. Malkin passed into the slot, where Eric Fehr managed to get his stick on the puck and redirect it past Holtby. Washington pressed in the remaining minutes, but even with the extra attacker, could not find another tying goal. Pittsburgh held on to win 2-1, tying the series.
Washington Capitals 2 - Pittsburgh Penguins 3
The series headed to Pittsburgh tied. It was the visiting team who got off to a hot start, but nothing would come of it for the Capitals. The Penguins took over minutes later, and would not waste their opportunities. Trevor Daley's point shot would be tipped by Hornqvist and bounce past a screened Holtby to open the scoring for the home team. A minute later, a rush saw Matt Cullen's pass get tipped up, hit Tom Kuhnhackl's back, and go past Holtby. Washington turned up the pressure, looking to get on the board. Even with a couple powerplays though, they could not beat Murray (or the goalpost). Pittsburgh ended the first period up 2-0. Washington wasn't backing down, putting up shot after shot. It was Pittsburgh who would get the lone goal of the period though, as Hagelin tapped in a pass from Bonino. The 14-6 shot discrepancy in the period meant nothing for the Capitals, as the Penguins led 3-0 after two period. To Washington's credit, they did not let the score get to them. They would eventually break through, as Ovechkin's wrister from the point beat Murray, breaking the shutout. The Capitals kept up the pressure, but even a powerplay was not helpful. They pulled Holtby late for an extra attacker, and that worked for them. Ovechkin hit the post, but Justin Williams put home the rebound, pulling Washington to within a goal of tying the game. They would run out of time though, as Pittsburgh held on to kill off the remaining 56 seconds. The 3-2 win put Pittsburgh in the series lead.
Washington Capitals 2 - Pittsburgh Penguins 3 (OT)
It didn't take long for Washington to get the opening goal in this one. Three minutes into the game, Beagle beat Murray with a sharp-angle backhand, making it 1-0 for the Capitals. It wasn't until midway through the period for the Penguins to respond. Daley's shot bounced off a defender and trickled past Holtby before he could adjust. The weird goal tied the game for the Penguins. Powerplays were prevalent late in the first, with both teams swapping multiple man advantages. It would not amount to much though, as it remained tied 1-1 after 20 minutes. Pittsburgh broke the deadlock minutes into the middle frame, as Cullen got behind the defense, collected the loose puck, and snapped it past Holtby to make it 2-1. Pittsburgh continued to press, but failed to extend their lead. Washington tied up late in the second. Williams caused a turnover in offensive zone and hit Carlson with a pass. Carlson proceeded to beat Murray before the Penguins goaltender could get set. It got a bit heated before the period ended, with Tom Wilson and Ian Cole getting offsetting roughing minors. The second period ended with both teams tied a 2-2. Play was back-and-forth to start, but eventually Washington started to take control. While both teams had chances as close calls, neither could score the go-ahead goal. Just like the second period, the third ended with the Capitals and Penguins tied 2-2. Overtime was needed for the second time in this series. Pittsburgh didn't want this one to take too long, and ended it before the extra frame was three minutes old. Mike Weber's attempt to clear the puck from the front of the net ended up putting it on Hornqvist's stick. The Penguin's winger made no mistake, shooting it through a sliding Holtby to win the game. Pittsburgh's 3-2 overtime win put them up 3-1 in the series.
Pittsburgh Penguins 1 - Washington Capitals 3
For the second straight game, the Capitals got an early goal. Thanks to a powerplay minutes into the first, Ovechkin was able to set up and one-time a shot past Murray. The tide woulf change minutes later, as the Penguins found themselves on the man advantage. Pittsburgh threw a lot at Holtby, and eventually found a way to beat him. Chris Kunitz, standing at the top of the crease, would whack the loose puck into the net. Chances were swapped, but again both teams ended a first period tied. Just like the first period, Washington would find themselves on the powerplay after Pittsburgh took a penalty minutes into the period. Ovechkin was able to tee one up, but this time Murray stopped it. Oshie battled for the rebound, and managed to get enough of the puck to put it into the net. Shots were exchanged, and later on in the period, the Capitals managed to extend their lead. Williams would be the beneficiary of a turnover in the Penguins zone. Murray got some of Williams' shot, but not enough, as it trickled by him and into the net. Pittsburgh got a couple of chances late in the period, but Holtby was there to stop them. The second period ended in Washington's favour, as they led 3-1 after 40 minutes. It was a battle in the third, with Pittsburgh looking to close the gap while Washington wanted to widen it. While both teams got their chances, neither goalie wanted to let up another goal. Holtby and Murray held the period scoreless. Washington went on to win 3-1, surviving for one more game.
Washington Capitals 3 - Pittsburgh Penguins 4 (OT)
The Capitals came out firing early, but it was the Penguins who got on the board first. Just under six minutes in, Kessel skated over the blueline and released a long wrist shot, beating Holtby. The action would pick up later in in the period, with both teams exchanging shots. The puck stayed out of either net though, as Pittsburgh ended the first period up 1-0. This continued early in the second, but eventually the Penguins started to control play thanks to a double-minor penalty by Brooks Orpik. Pittsburgh did not waste that opportunity. Kessel managed to cut out in front and slip the puck around Holtby's outstretched pad, doubling Pittsburgh's lead. Only 33 seconds later, Hagelin tipped Olli Maatta's point shot into the Washington net. The Capitals started to push back, but it wasn't until late in the period when they responded. Oshie scored on the powerplay to finally put Washington on the board. Pittsburgh was still in the lead though, up 3-1 after two periods. The Penguins didn't sit on their two-goal lead, as they came out pressing, looking to extend it. The opposite would happen though, with Williams skating out from behind the net and beating Murray. Penalty trouble would befall the Penguins midway through the period, as they were called for flipping the puck over the glass three times. The last one would be the killer. John Carlson stepped into a one-timer and beat Murray on the 5-on-3, tying the game. Both teams looked to break the deadlock before the period ended, but it didn't happen. The game remained tied 3-3 after 60 minutes, meaning overtime was needed again. Pittsburgh looked to put this away early, and managed to get the Washington defense scrambling. Daley had an open net to shoot at, but Beagle dove in, stopping the puck with his stick. The heroics only delayed the game's conclusion for a couple minutes though. Hagelin has his shot stopped, but Bonino was there, free in the slot, to put home the rebound. Bonino's goal won the game 4-3 for Pittsburgh. The win was the Penguins' fourth of the series, as they now move on to the conference finals.
Three Thoughts on the Series
Jay Beagle's luck with sticks wasn't great in Game 1...
Highlight of the Series
...Game 6 on the other hand...
Games
Pittsburgh Penguins 3 - Washington Capitals 4 (OT)
Pittsburgh started strong in the first five minutes, but the tide started to go in Washington's favour after that. A powerplay kept their momentum going, but they could not find the back of the net on it. Midway through the period, Washington would strike. Pittsburgh turned over the puck on a rush and Washington took it the other way on a 3-on-1. Jason Chimera's shot was stopped, but Andre Burakovsky was there to bury the rebound. The Capitals kept up the pressure, looking to add to their lead, but could not do so. The Penguins' got a turn to go on the man advantage but could not take advantage of the powerplay. The first period ended with Washington up 1-0. Pittsburgh wasn't sitting back, as they come out firing in the second. It took a while, but finally the Penguins broke through. Nick Bonino dangled into the Capitals zone and got a shot on Braden Holtby. Holtby stopped the shot, but Ben Lovejoy was in the right spot to tuck home the rebound and tie the game. Less than a minute later, Evgeni Malkin cut in, received a pass, and backhanded a shot over Holtby's shoulder, making it 2-1 for Pittsburgh. That lead didn't last long, as T.J. Oshie skated in on a breakaway and roofed one past Murray. Shots would be exchanged, but neither team could break the deadlock before the end of the period. It didn't mean there wasn't action though, as Jay Beagle provided some comic relief, getting a stick wedge in his visor. The second period ended with both teams tied 2-2. The tie was broken minutes into the third period. Alexander Ovechkin slid a pass over to Oshie, who managed to beat Matt Murray five-hole. A bit of 4-on-4 was played, with the Penguins dominating on the opened-up ice. Despite that, it wasn't until minutes after when they tied the game. A tic-tac-toe play resulted in Bonino getting the puck in the slot and snapping it past Holtby (his shot may have been deflected by a defender). A powerplay later on gave the Capitals a chance to regain the lead. They came close, as Matt Niskanen hit the post and Chimera could not get enough on the rebound to finish it. A late push by Washington resulted in nothing, as the game was tied 3-3 after 60 minutes. Both teams had about the same number of shots in overtime, but only one of them managed to go into a net. Oshie looked to be the hero for Washington, scoring on a wraparound to complete his hat trick. A review was needed first, and it was determined that the puck crossed the line just enough to count. Washington wins 4-3 in overtime, giving them a 1-0 lead in the series.
Pittsburgh Penguins 2 - Washington Capitals 1
Washington looked to keep their momentum going after winning Game 1. The first period was mostly Pittsburgh's though, as they took control after an early Washington penalty. Even with the man advantage though, the Penguins could not find the back of the net. The Capitals got a few chances of their own late, but Murray was there to stop them. The first period ended as it started, with both teams tied 0-0. Pittsburgh was once again on the attack early in the second thanks to a powerplay. They could not score on the man advantage, but they did get the opening goal later in the period. Nick Bonino went around the net and found an open Carl Hagelin in the slot. Hagelin wasted no time in shooting the puck past Holtby to make it 1-0 Penguins. The Capitals almost tied it up minutes later, but Jason Chimera's shot rang off the far post. Pittsburgh had a couple more powerplays in the period, but could not use them to extend their lead. Washington looked to have tied the game, with Nate Schmidt burying a rebound. The goal was immediately waved off though, as Evgeni Kuznetsov fell down on Murray just before, rendering the goaltender unable to attempt a save. Kuznetsov would get a penalty for goaltending interference, but Washington managed to kill it. The second period ended with Pittsburgh up 1-0. Washington would be the beneficiaries of an early powerplay in the third, and they made good use of it. John Carlson's point shot was blocked and trickled into the crease. Marcus Johansson was in the right spot, tapping home the loose puck to tie the game. Play would go back-and-forth for a while, with the Capitals getting most of the quality chances. It wasn't until there was less than five minutes left when the tied would be broken. Malkin passed into the slot, where Eric Fehr managed to get his stick on the puck and redirect it past Holtby. Washington pressed in the remaining minutes, but even with the extra attacker, could not find another tying goal. Pittsburgh held on to win 2-1, tying the series.
Washington Capitals 2 - Pittsburgh Penguins 3
The series headed to Pittsburgh tied. It was the visiting team who got off to a hot start, but nothing would come of it for the Capitals. The Penguins took over minutes later, and would not waste their opportunities. Trevor Daley's point shot would be tipped by Hornqvist and bounce past a screened Holtby to open the scoring for the home team. A minute later, a rush saw Matt Cullen's pass get tipped up, hit Tom Kuhnhackl's back, and go past Holtby. Washington turned up the pressure, looking to get on the board. Even with a couple powerplays though, they could not beat Murray (or the goalpost). Pittsburgh ended the first period up 2-0. Washington wasn't backing down, putting up shot after shot. It was Pittsburgh who would get the lone goal of the period though, as Hagelin tapped in a pass from Bonino. The 14-6 shot discrepancy in the period meant nothing for the Capitals, as the Penguins led 3-0 after two period. To Washington's credit, they did not let the score get to them. They would eventually break through, as Ovechkin's wrister from the point beat Murray, breaking the shutout. The Capitals kept up the pressure, but even a powerplay was not helpful. They pulled Holtby late for an extra attacker, and that worked for them. Ovechkin hit the post, but Justin Williams put home the rebound, pulling Washington to within a goal of tying the game. They would run out of time though, as Pittsburgh held on to kill off the remaining 56 seconds. The 3-2 win put Pittsburgh in the series lead.
Washington Capitals 2 - Pittsburgh Penguins 3 (OT)
It didn't take long for Washington to get the opening goal in this one. Three minutes into the game, Beagle beat Murray with a sharp-angle backhand, making it 1-0 for the Capitals. It wasn't until midway through the period for the Penguins to respond. Daley's shot bounced off a defender and trickled past Holtby before he could adjust. The weird goal tied the game for the Penguins. Powerplays were prevalent late in the first, with both teams swapping multiple man advantages. It would not amount to much though, as it remained tied 1-1 after 20 minutes. Pittsburgh broke the deadlock minutes into the middle frame, as Cullen got behind the defense, collected the loose puck, and snapped it past Holtby to make it 2-1. Pittsburgh continued to press, but failed to extend their lead. Washington tied up late in the second. Williams caused a turnover in offensive zone and hit Carlson with a pass. Carlson proceeded to beat Murray before the Penguins goaltender could get set. It got a bit heated before the period ended, with Tom Wilson and Ian Cole getting offsetting roughing minors. The second period ended with both teams tied a 2-2. Play was back-and-forth to start, but eventually Washington started to take control. While both teams had chances as close calls, neither could score the go-ahead goal. Just like the second period, the third ended with the Capitals and Penguins tied 2-2. Overtime was needed for the second time in this series. Pittsburgh didn't want this one to take too long, and ended it before the extra frame was three minutes old. Mike Weber's attempt to clear the puck from the front of the net ended up putting it on Hornqvist's stick. The Penguin's winger made no mistake, shooting it through a sliding Holtby to win the game. Pittsburgh's 3-2 overtime win put them up 3-1 in the series.
Pittsburgh Penguins 1 - Washington Capitals 3
For the second straight game, the Capitals got an early goal. Thanks to a powerplay minutes into the first, Ovechkin was able to set up and one-time a shot past Murray. The tide woulf change minutes later, as the Penguins found themselves on the man advantage. Pittsburgh threw a lot at Holtby, and eventually found a way to beat him. Chris Kunitz, standing at the top of the crease, would whack the loose puck into the net. Chances were swapped, but again both teams ended a first period tied. Just like the first period, Washington would find themselves on the powerplay after Pittsburgh took a penalty minutes into the period. Ovechkin was able to tee one up, but this time Murray stopped it. Oshie battled for the rebound, and managed to get enough of the puck to put it into the net. Shots were exchanged, and later on in the period, the Capitals managed to extend their lead. Williams would be the beneficiary of a turnover in the Penguins zone. Murray got some of Williams' shot, but not enough, as it trickled by him and into the net. Pittsburgh got a couple of chances late in the period, but Holtby was there to stop them. The second period ended in Washington's favour, as they led 3-1 after 40 minutes. It was a battle in the third, with Pittsburgh looking to close the gap while Washington wanted to widen it. While both teams got their chances, neither goalie wanted to let up another goal. Holtby and Murray held the period scoreless. Washington went on to win 3-1, surviving for one more game.
Washington Capitals 3 - Pittsburgh Penguins 4 (OT)
The Capitals came out firing early, but it was the Penguins who got on the board first. Just under six minutes in, Kessel skated over the blueline and released a long wrist shot, beating Holtby. The action would pick up later in in the period, with both teams exchanging shots. The puck stayed out of either net though, as Pittsburgh ended the first period up 1-0. This continued early in the second, but eventually the Penguins started to control play thanks to a double-minor penalty by Brooks Orpik. Pittsburgh did not waste that opportunity. Kessel managed to cut out in front and slip the puck around Holtby's outstretched pad, doubling Pittsburgh's lead. Only 33 seconds later, Hagelin tipped Olli Maatta's point shot into the Washington net. The Capitals started to push back, but it wasn't until late in the period when they responded. Oshie scored on the powerplay to finally put Washington on the board. Pittsburgh was still in the lead though, up 3-1 after two periods. The Penguins didn't sit on their two-goal lead, as they came out pressing, looking to extend it. The opposite would happen though, with Williams skating out from behind the net and beating Murray. Penalty trouble would befall the Penguins midway through the period, as they were called for flipping the puck over the glass three times. The last one would be the killer. John Carlson stepped into a one-timer and beat Murray on the 5-on-3, tying the game. Both teams looked to break the deadlock before the period ended, but it didn't happen. The game remained tied 3-3 after 60 minutes, meaning overtime was needed again. Pittsburgh looked to put this away early, and managed to get the Washington defense scrambling. Daley had an open net to shoot at, but Beagle dove in, stopping the puck with his stick. The heroics only delayed the game's conclusion for a couple minutes though. Hagelin has his shot stopped, but Bonino was there, free in the slot, to put home the rebound. Bonino's goal won the game 4-3 for Pittsburgh. The win was the Penguins' fourth of the series, as they now move on to the conference finals.
Three Thoughts on the Series
- Poor Ovechkin, he played really well, but his team could not get past the second round.
- Poor Capitals as well, this was probably the best team they've ever had, and just ran into a good Penguins team.
- This was a great series. Pretty neat that all but one game was decided by a single goal (unless you are a Caps fan).
Jay Beagle's luck with sticks wasn't great in Game 1...
Highlight of the Series
...Game 6 on the other hand...
Thursday, June 2, 2016
2016 IIHF World Championship Review - Playoffs
We had repeat champions this year, as Canada wins back-to-back gold medals for the first time since they did it in 2003-04 (Russia also pulled off this feat in 2008-09). Finland went undefeated until the last game, getting shut out in the gold medal game, and settling for silver. The host Russians had no problems winning the bronze in front of the home crowd. The United States could not repeat last year's performance, and went home empty-handed.
Note: Most information from the fancy IIHF website.
Quarter Finals
Czech Republic 1 - United States 2 (SO)
The Czechs would outshoot the Americans in the first, and got an excellent chance to open the scoring late in the period. Tomas Zohorna was hooked on a breakaway, resulting in a penalty shot being awarded. He made good on the attempt, beating Keith Kinkaid to put the Czechs in the lead. The United States would pick up their play in the second. It paid off early, with Auston Matthews scoring 87 seconds into the period to tie the game. Interference was the name of the game later in the second, with both teams getting called multiple times for it. It remained tied 1-1 at the end of the second. Neither team would find the back of the net in the third, meaning overtime would be played. The United States had a couple good chances in the extra frame, but Dominik Furch was there to keep the puck out of the net. Ten minutes decided nothing, making a shootout necessary. Matthews was once again the hero for the Americans, as he scored the lone goal in the event. The United States move on to the semi-finals with a 2-1 win.
Finland 5 - Denmark 1
It was mostly Finland in the first, but despite being in control, it wasn't until the later half of the period when they opened the scoring. Mikael Granlund roofed one over Sebastian Dahm to put Finland up 1-0. The Finns extended their lead early in the second thanks to Jarno Koskiranta. Denmark managed to get one back midway through the second. Lars Eller scored on the powerplay, pulling the Danes to within a goal. Finland restored their two-goal lead late in the period. Patrik Laine worked his magic, getting into the slot and beating Dahm. Denmark tried, but could not get any closer to tying the game. Goals by Jussi Jokinen and Granlund capped off the scoring. Finland moves on to the next round thanks to their 5-1 win over Denmark.
Russia 4 - Germany 1
The Germans shocked the host Russians with an early goal in the first. Some pressure led to Patrick Reimer beating Sergei Bobrovski to put Germany up 1-0. They managed to hang on to the lead for the rest of the first period. Things changed in the second, with Vadim Shipachyov scored 40 seconds into the period to tie the game. Shipachyov then set up Yevgeni Dadonov over six minutes later to put Russia in the lead. Shipachyov capped off an amazing period with a goal 14 minutes into the second. Russia coasted the rest of the game, with Alexander Ovechkin scoring early in the third. The 4-1 win pushed Russia past Germany and into the semi-finals.
Canada 6 - Sweden 0
This game would be Canada's for the taking. It took a while, but the Canadians got on the board late in the first, when Mark Scheifele tipped Ryan O'Reilly's point shot into the Swedish net. A bad hit by Andre Burakovsky gave Canada a powerplayin the second. They took advantage of having the extra man, as Matt Dumba scored to extend the lead. Dumba was in on Canada's next goal, as his shot bounced off the back boards and to Brad Marchand, who put the puck into the net. Just 11 seconds after Marchand scored, Max Domi got a goal of his own, making it 4-0 for Canada. Sweden was desparate for a goal in the third, and even pulled Jacob Markstrom for an extra attacker when they had a two-man advantage. Their attempts were all for naught though, as Cam Talbot would not let anything by him. Matt Stone and Derick Brassard added goals midway through the third period. Tablot stopped all 24 shots he faced, as Canada shut out Sweden 6-0 to advance to the semi-finals.
Semi-Finals
Finland 3 - Russia 1
The host had a good start to this game. Sergei Shirokov tucked home a rebound three minutes into the game to put Russia up 1-0. They would outshoot the Finns in the period, but Mikko Koskinen did what he could to keep it a one-goal game. Finland managed to tie the game thanks to a powerplay early in the second. Sebastian Aho one-timer beat Bobrovsky, making it a 1-1 game. Jokinen and Laine connected later in the period, with Jokinen finishing off their play to put Finland in the lead. Minutes later, Aho got his second powerplay goal of the game, as Finland entered the second intermission up 3-1. Russia dominated in the third period, outshooting Finland 13-2. All 13 shots though would be stopped, as Koskinen showed that he could not be beat. Finland hung on to win 3-1, earning a spot in the gold medal game. The lost put the host Russian in the bronze medal game.
United States 3 - Canada 4
It was the battle of North America, with the winner going to the gold medal game. Both teams were nervous in the first, but managed to put up 12 shots a piece in the period. Only Canada managed to find the back of the net though, starting with Brendan Gallagher's goal nine minutes into the period. Marchand converted on a two-on-one late in the period, making it 2-0 for Canada. The United States started their comeback early in the second. Matthews kicked it off with a powerplay goal just over a minute into the period. A few minutes later, David Warsofsky blasted one past Talbot to tie the game. Midway through the period, Tyler Motte scored to put the Americans in the lead. It lasted for seven minutes, as Brassard scored on the powerplay to tie the game. It remained tied until early in the third, when Ryan Ellis scored his first of the tournament to put Canada up by one. The Americans pushed back, looking to tie the game once again. The Canadian squad would hold on though, with Talbot stopping what the Americans threw at him. The 4-3 win clinches Canada's spot in the gold medal game. The United States are bumped down to the bronze medal game as a result.
Bronze Medal Game
United States 2 - Russia 7
The battle between two rival nations saw Russia get the first goal. Vyacheslav Voinov got a point shot threw traffic and past Kinkaid. Sergei Mozyakin got one on the powerplay midway through the period to extend the host nation's lead. Russia played rough late in the first and early in the second, leading to the United States getting a couple of powerplays. The Americans could not capitalize with the extra man though, as they stayed off the scoreboard. Russia continued their scoring ways halfway through the period, with Ivan Telegin getting things started. An odd man rush moments later led to Dadonov getting a goal, making it 4-0 for the host. The United States got another powerplay minutes later, and this time made good on it. Frank Vatrano beat a screened Bobrovski to put the United States on the board. It didn't take long for Russia to strike back, as Artemi Panarin scored 53 seconds later to restore Russia's four-goal lead. A change was needed for the United States in the third, with Mike Condon coming in to replace Kinkaid in net. Vatrano scored his second of the game minutes into the period. That would be as close as the Americans got to a comeback. Mozyakin and Shipachyov scored in the later half of the third to seal the game. Russia won 7-2, winning the bronze and giving the home crowd something to cheer about.
Gold Medal Game
Canada 2 - Finland 0
Going into the game, Canada was looking to repeat (and get a bit of revenge) while Finland was looking at history. The rematch showed it would be a different game, as Connor McDavid quickly corralled a loose puck and snapped it past Koskinen. Laine would get a chance to tie the game later on, receiving a pass in the slot with no one around him. Talbot waited him out though, and made the save to preserve the lead. The second period was all Canada, as they held Finland to just four shots while putting up 13 of their own. They kept up that play in the third, limiting Finland to very few chances. Matt Duchene scored with 0.6 seconds left on the clock to cap the game. Talbot was solid throughout the 60 minutes, stopping 16 shots in the shutout effort. Canada's 2-0 win made them repeat champions, as they won the gold medal. Finland settled for silver after a very good tournament by them.
Final Ranking
1 (Gold) - Canada
2 (Silver) - Finland
3 (Bronze) - Russia
4 - United States
5 - Czech Republic
6 - Sweden
7 - Germany
8 - Denmark
9 - Slovakia
10 - Norway
11 - Switzerland
12 - Belarus
13 - Latvia
14 - France
15 (Relegated) - Hungary
16 (Relegated) - Kazakhstan
Best Power Ranking
Belarus: When in doubt, use more Canadians (May 6)
Canada: Look! It's a Canadian team playing in May! (May 6)
Czech Republic: Birner has his own festival: Birning Man (May 10)
Denmark: Trevor? It's Jim. This is a different Nicklas Jensen, right? (May 14)
Finland: Video reviews are fun because you can drink more beer (May 14)
France: Russia was rough on Napoleon too. (Too soon?) (May 19)
Germany: Cologne. For teams that don't want to stink. (May 22)
Hungary: French kissing is banned (May 17)
Kazakhstan: "Love in an elevator/ Livin' it up while I'm goin' down" (May 17)
Latvia: [Inserts naughtys Latvians words] (May 12)
Norway: The Stavanger Oilers win more than the other Oilers (May 21)
Russia: Vicotry is ours! (Unless we massively screw up.) (May 17)
Slovakia: We begged Gallagher to jump Marchand (May 14)
Sweden: We mention Nyqvist. He wins the Derby. Coincidence? (May 8)
Switzerland: No, really, you do dream of playing for Team Europe (May 6)
United States: Our Wideman has no problem with the refs (May 12)
Note: Most information from the fancy IIHF website.
Quarter Finals
Czech Republic 1 - United States 2 (SO)
The Czechs would outshoot the Americans in the first, and got an excellent chance to open the scoring late in the period. Tomas Zohorna was hooked on a breakaway, resulting in a penalty shot being awarded. He made good on the attempt, beating Keith Kinkaid to put the Czechs in the lead. The United States would pick up their play in the second. It paid off early, with Auston Matthews scoring 87 seconds into the period to tie the game. Interference was the name of the game later in the second, with both teams getting called multiple times for it. It remained tied 1-1 at the end of the second. Neither team would find the back of the net in the third, meaning overtime would be played. The United States had a couple good chances in the extra frame, but Dominik Furch was there to keep the puck out of the net. Ten minutes decided nothing, making a shootout necessary. Matthews was once again the hero for the Americans, as he scored the lone goal in the event. The United States move on to the semi-finals with a 2-1 win.
Finland 5 - Denmark 1
It was mostly Finland in the first, but despite being in control, it wasn't until the later half of the period when they opened the scoring. Mikael Granlund roofed one over Sebastian Dahm to put Finland up 1-0. The Finns extended their lead early in the second thanks to Jarno Koskiranta. Denmark managed to get one back midway through the second. Lars Eller scored on the powerplay, pulling the Danes to within a goal. Finland restored their two-goal lead late in the period. Patrik Laine worked his magic, getting into the slot and beating Dahm. Denmark tried, but could not get any closer to tying the game. Goals by Jussi Jokinen and Granlund capped off the scoring. Finland moves on to the next round thanks to their 5-1 win over Denmark.
Russia 4 - Germany 1
The Germans shocked the host Russians with an early goal in the first. Some pressure led to Patrick Reimer beating Sergei Bobrovski to put Germany up 1-0. They managed to hang on to the lead for the rest of the first period. Things changed in the second, with Vadim Shipachyov scored 40 seconds into the period to tie the game. Shipachyov then set up Yevgeni Dadonov over six minutes later to put Russia in the lead. Shipachyov capped off an amazing period with a goal 14 minutes into the second. Russia coasted the rest of the game, with Alexander Ovechkin scoring early in the third. The 4-1 win pushed Russia past Germany and into the semi-finals.
Canada 6 - Sweden 0
This game would be Canada's for the taking. It took a while, but the Canadians got on the board late in the first, when Mark Scheifele tipped Ryan O'Reilly's point shot into the Swedish net. A bad hit by Andre Burakovsky gave Canada a powerplayin the second. They took advantage of having the extra man, as Matt Dumba scored to extend the lead. Dumba was in on Canada's next goal, as his shot bounced off the back boards and to Brad Marchand, who put the puck into the net. Just 11 seconds after Marchand scored, Max Domi got a goal of his own, making it 4-0 for Canada. Sweden was desparate for a goal in the third, and even pulled Jacob Markstrom for an extra attacker when they had a two-man advantage. Their attempts were all for naught though, as Cam Talbot would not let anything by him. Matt Stone and Derick Brassard added goals midway through the third period. Tablot stopped all 24 shots he faced, as Canada shut out Sweden 6-0 to advance to the semi-finals.
Semi-Finals
Finland 3 - Russia 1
The host had a good start to this game. Sergei Shirokov tucked home a rebound three minutes into the game to put Russia up 1-0. They would outshoot the Finns in the period, but Mikko Koskinen did what he could to keep it a one-goal game. Finland managed to tie the game thanks to a powerplay early in the second. Sebastian Aho one-timer beat Bobrovsky, making it a 1-1 game. Jokinen and Laine connected later in the period, with Jokinen finishing off their play to put Finland in the lead. Minutes later, Aho got his second powerplay goal of the game, as Finland entered the second intermission up 3-1. Russia dominated in the third period, outshooting Finland 13-2. All 13 shots though would be stopped, as Koskinen showed that he could not be beat. Finland hung on to win 3-1, earning a spot in the gold medal game. The lost put the host Russian in the bronze medal game.
United States 3 - Canada 4
It was the battle of North America, with the winner going to the gold medal game. Both teams were nervous in the first, but managed to put up 12 shots a piece in the period. Only Canada managed to find the back of the net though, starting with Brendan Gallagher's goal nine minutes into the period. Marchand converted on a two-on-one late in the period, making it 2-0 for Canada. The United States started their comeback early in the second. Matthews kicked it off with a powerplay goal just over a minute into the period. A few minutes later, David Warsofsky blasted one past Talbot to tie the game. Midway through the period, Tyler Motte scored to put the Americans in the lead. It lasted for seven minutes, as Brassard scored on the powerplay to tie the game. It remained tied until early in the third, when Ryan Ellis scored his first of the tournament to put Canada up by one. The Americans pushed back, looking to tie the game once again. The Canadian squad would hold on though, with Talbot stopping what the Americans threw at him. The 4-3 win clinches Canada's spot in the gold medal game. The United States are bumped down to the bronze medal game as a result.
Bronze Medal Game
United States 2 - Russia 7
The battle between two rival nations saw Russia get the first goal. Vyacheslav Voinov got a point shot threw traffic and past Kinkaid. Sergei Mozyakin got one on the powerplay midway through the period to extend the host nation's lead. Russia played rough late in the first and early in the second, leading to the United States getting a couple of powerplays. The Americans could not capitalize with the extra man though, as they stayed off the scoreboard. Russia continued their scoring ways halfway through the period, with Ivan Telegin getting things started. An odd man rush moments later led to Dadonov getting a goal, making it 4-0 for the host. The United States got another powerplay minutes later, and this time made good on it. Frank Vatrano beat a screened Bobrovski to put the United States on the board. It didn't take long for Russia to strike back, as Artemi Panarin scored 53 seconds later to restore Russia's four-goal lead. A change was needed for the United States in the third, with Mike Condon coming in to replace Kinkaid in net. Vatrano scored his second of the game minutes into the period. That would be as close as the Americans got to a comeback. Mozyakin and Shipachyov scored in the later half of the third to seal the game. Russia won 7-2, winning the bronze and giving the home crowd something to cheer about.
Gold Medal Game
Canada 2 - Finland 0
Going into the game, Canada was looking to repeat (and get a bit of revenge) while Finland was looking at history. The rematch showed it would be a different game, as Connor McDavid quickly corralled a loose puck and snapped it past Koskinen. Laine would get a chance to tie the game later on, receiving a pass in the slot with no one around him. Talbot waited him out though, and made the save to preserve the lead. The second period was all Canada, as they held Finland to just four shots while putting up 13 of their own. They kept up that play in the third, limiting Finland to very few chances. Matt Duchene scored with 0.6 seconds left on the clock to cap the game. Talbot was solid throughout the 60 minutes, stopping 16 shots in the shutout effort. Canada's 2-0 win made them repeat champions, as they won the gold medal. Finland settled for silver after a very good tournament by them.
Final Ranking
1 (Gold) - Canada
2 (Silver) - Finland
3 (Bronze) - Russia
4 - United States
5 - Czech Republic
6 - Sweden
7 - Germany
8 - Denmark
9 - Slovakia
10 - Norway
11 - Switzerland
12 - Belarus
13 - Latvia
14 - France
15 (Relegated) - Hungary
16 (Relegated) - Kazakhstan
Best Power Ranking
Belarus: When in doubt, use more Canadians (May 6)
Canada: Look! It's a Canadian team playing in May! (May 6)
Czech Republic: Birner has his own festival: Birning Man (May 10)
Denmark: Trevor? It's Jim. This is a different Nicklas Jensen, right? (May 14)
Finland: Video reviews are fun because you can drink more beer (May 14)
France: Russia was rough on Napoleon too. (Too soon?) (May 19)
Germany: Cologne. For teams that don't want to stink. (May 22)
Hungary: French kissing is banned (May 17)
Kazakhstan: "Love in an elevator/ Livin' it up while I'm goin' down" (May 17)
Latvia: [Inserts naughtys Latvians words] (May 12)
Norway: The Stavanger Oilers win more than the other Oilers (May 21)
Russia: Vicotry is ours! (Unless we massively screw up.) (May 17)
Slovakia: We begged Gallagher to jump Marchand (May 14)
Sweden: We mention Nyqvist. He wins the Derby. Coincidence? (May 8)
Switzerland: No, really, you do dream of playing for Team Europe (May 6)
United States: Our Wideman has no problem with the refs (May 12)
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