Well, both the Sharks and Ducks couldn't squeeze out a 7th game. Chicago jumped out to an early lead, just like the previous game; and the Flames couldn't recover. Both the Flames and Sharks are notorious playoff underachievers; their respective legacys continue. It's good to see the Hawks back in contention. I always felt that the post-JR and Chelios era was a dark time for that franchise. But, there's new life, youth and hope in Chicago.
Goaltending. What a wild situation. Nabokov and Kiprusoff are no strangers to the playoffs, yet got outplayed by Hiller and Khabibulin? I'm pretty sure that Chicago had given up on Khabi and were looking forward to his pending free agency. They mentioned last night that he hadn't started 6 games in a row all season, until last night. I personally wouldn't re-sign Khabi, but good for him; as his prospects of re-signing and extending his career are 5Xs higher after a solid playoff round. GS Giguere who? Hiller was solid and sometimes spectacular.
Most of all I'm sad for JR. I wanted him to win a Cup before hanging up the skates. He has been a solid veteran and locker-room guy playing on the 4th line, the last two years. But clearly, his best days are behind him. I don't want to see him play that role another year. I expect a retirement announcement this summer. Hopefully ESPN picks up the NHL again and JR provides color commentary.
Two eastern conference game 7's tonight!
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