 Once again, the NHL playoffs have yet to disappoint. The Sabres won their first playoff game in 3 seasons last night so I am a bit bias, but let us look around the league shall we. Every game so far has been decided by a single goal including a couple overtime contests. Minus Vancouver and Buffalo we have all upsets as well.
Buffalo v Boston: This game got off to a quick start as Vanek sniped early to give the Sabres the lead, followed almost immediately was some bad blood. The Sabres got after Chara early and often and the bruins bruiser ended up getting involved with Vanek at center ice and then again moments later hit Kaleta from behind into the boards to give Buffalo the PP. Although Buffalo's PP was a tad terrible during the contest it still allowed the Sabres to retain momentum. Both goaltenders played well and led to an exciting 3rd period. The Sabres hustle was present in the third, after a sub par second, to draw the Bruins to the box over and over. The bruins lack of discipline kept them in the box late and allowed the Sabres a comfortable running of the clock.
Capitals v Canadiens: Although the Sabres were on at the same time, I managed to catch parts of this game. The story as I'm sure most will talk about is the Montreal focus on the best shooter in the league, Alex Ovechkin. Ovi was held without a single shot in the entire game. Don't expect that to last, but kudos to the Canadiens blueline for keeping him in check. Backstrom showed he was no push over however, getting involved physically and on the scoresheet. Look for him to continue to benifit from the extra focus on Ovi.
Vancouver v Los Angles: This blogger feels differenty then Tim on the subject of goaltending for the Kings. Jonathon Quick had a great season and IS a number 1 goalie in the NHL. He made tons of huge saves to keep the Kings in this one. The Sedin twins proved their worth however, as everytime they were on the ice they dominated the play. Look for this series to go longer than expected once the young skilled forwards for the Kings get their playoff legs.
Excited to get 5 games tonight,
Go Sabres! | 
