Good to hear Ward's coming back. That cut to Corvo was weird. You're absolutely right, it didn't look like anything. There's still plenty of time for Carolina to turn things around. Even the once Mighty Red Wings are having a rough go this season! Another great article, as usual.
So A&W is back in Carolina eh? I'll admit this seems like a pointless shuffling at first glance, but I've always liked Ward (and hated to see Scotty B bounce him from the Wings just before they won the cup) so I'm hoping this is one of those 'I want to finish my career in a place I like' deals where the old warrior plays his heart out for the duration. But you're right, the Canes really need to make some new friends. Recycling is great for the environment but it won't win the Cup.
Ah, Jiminy Christmas. Scrappy little winger and face off specialist, played for Hartford I think. The Canes got it handed to them last night but there are some good things they can take away from the game as well. Game 1 is the game to lose if you're the visitor. The Bruins were amped up, but there's still lots of hockey left. And they had some very good stretches. Nobody said Boston would be easy, but I predict a grittier game 2.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. Ray Whitney is the most under appreciated player in the NHL. The guy is smart, talented, generous, and durable. If Carolina can clone him they can have a dynasty. Another excellent article, with the best description of a Staal (kind of) hit I've ever read!
I absolutely love it when the stay at home guys score. And when a stay at home guy scores the game winner AND it's in OT, well I only hope he got that puck! Beating the Devils in their own house is a very big deal indeed in the playoffs That could be just the lever the Canes need push Marty out of the way.
Good article. The Canes are really lighting it up down the stretch. I was glad to see that Conboy is still up as well!
Re: “Despite the dangers, hockey's old-school, rough justice is essential to its appeal”
Well Said.
As as a long time (some might say incredibly old and partially senile)fan, I do remember the days of Probert, Neely et al, and I loved to see them mix it up. But today's game is simply too fast paced for much banging unless it's almost scheduled between the two players, which reduces it's impact for me. But the dangers of dropping the gloves are worse than many realize. Concussions are mounting in the league and nothing says concussion like tagging your noggin on the ice after getting your lights put out in a fight.