Zetterberg is God

That would be a significant loss but plugging the Mule in there would obviously be the best solution. As for what they do for Homer's roster spot, I wouldn't go back to McCarty but instead go to Justin Abdelkader. Rookie or not he's shown enough that he could put in some quality minutes in an energy/checking role.

Canucks defenceman Luc Bourdon killed in motorcycle accident

Fucking Christ, as good as Pittsburgh played the Wings had just too many fucking chances to tie the game. A late power play was a fucking gift and nothing. That aspect of the game better pick up and Lilja really needs to be taken out. Ericsson or Meech would be vastly superior options at this point.

I could see the Wings tying it but they need to tighten up considerably and Datsyuk and Zetterberg need to get in sync.

Jesus Christ the Mule is just too good right now.

It's scary how bad the Wings are playing right now. Nothing is fucking working and the Pens are using the Wings' own plan against them to perfection. Step it the fuck up already.

I figure I should have at least one heavy hitter on D so: Scott Stevens, D 196 goals 712 assists 908 points +393 in his career 2785 PIM 3 Stanley Cups Conn Smythe Trophy Winner 13 all star game appearances Hall of Fame inductee, 2007 (first year of eligibility)

Two of the guys I was thinking of taking haven't been taken yet so as long as I go after Max's third rounder it should work I think.

What about my pity pick? It was partially my fault for not making it (but moreso the guy I asked to do it instead who didn't) but I explained that I wouldn't be able to make it and I got skipped without mention which fucked things up in the first place.

Again I could be wrong but doesn't Max pick after Gobblin? It also seems like Smartly made two picks in this round (unless he was supposed to and I missed it). The order is fucked and we really should start keeping better track of it.

Another solid performance from the Wings. The Pens gooning it up shows they're getting pretty desperate. Seeing Datsyuk and Franzen dishing it right back is awesome and despite Osgood's embellishment, he had another solid performance. It's between him and Zetterberg for the Conn Smythe but consecutive shut-outs maybe put it in his hands.

Just got back from game one and it was awesome of course despite the unbelievable amount of Pittsburgh fans but kudos to them for showing up. The ceremonial faceoff with Stevie Y was a great moment and the building was rocking the entire night. Best part of the win was seeing Samuelsson and Cleary snap lengthy droughts. Hopefully the Mule's return tonight gives them the W.

So I might not have computer access for a bit while I'm in Detroit so someone I know who posts here might have to submit my picks.

Tabernac. I second that sentiment. Figured he might fall to me. Anyway I was going goalie or defense here so: Jacques Plante, G 434 career wins 82 career shutouts 2.38 career G.A.A. Winner of five consecutive Stanley Cups Winner of seven Vezina trophies, including five consecutively Hart Trophy winner Eight all star game appearences First goaltender to use a mask regularly Hall of Fame inductee, 1978

Since I'm completely reckless with my money (and I love the Red Wings that much) I'm heading down to Detroit for game one. It'll be my first game there and I can't think of a better game to mark my first visit to the JLA. Should be a hell of a time and I just pray that Detroit gets a win to make the trip that much better.

. Maybe if you're referring to their total game, their ability to play in all three zones. But it doesn't seem to be that, it seems like you're referring exclusively to their offensive prowress. And even though their point totals are comparable this post-season (in fact I think that they're identical) the Wings have also played a couple more games, so their PPG is slightly lower. While I'll concede that the Pens duo may have an edge offensively, if we include the overall package I think Datsyuk and Zetterberg are right there. Both are Selke nominees and play the PK often (and are a threat to score in that role which adds another dimension to their games). In time Malkin and Crosby will get there but to me offense is their only weapon so that's why I put Hank and Pav up there. Hell, Zetterberg probably would have hit top three scoring had he not gotten injured (but I guess you could say the same about Crosby). Either way that matchup is what is going to make this series exciting.

This could end up being a great series. I think for forwards I'd give a slight edge to Pittsburgh. Zetterberg and Datsyuk are just as good (if not better) than Malkin and Crosby but Hossa, Sykora and Malone give them a slight advantage. If Johan Franzen makes it back I'd call the forwards a draw. As for defense, no question the edge goes to Wings. Their top four is outstanding and Kronwall is showing why he was sorely missed in last year's run. Goaltending is going to be crucial but I'd say it's an even battle. Both Fleury and Osgood have been solid but not tested by the kind of offenses they're about to face. Osgood has been here before so he has that going for him. In the end, I think Pittsburgh has a legitimate chance but Detroit's superior defense and overall experience carries them to victory in six games. Henrik Zetterberg will win the Conn Smythe trophy.

Fucking amazing to see the Wings back in the Cup final. I think it's going to be a tough series but I think they can win it. Keeping Malkin and Hossa in check will obviously be key and so will the play of Osgood. Wings in six.

So far so good for the Wings. The best part of the lead is pretty much all of it came from secondary scoring. Dallas is looking pretty flat so Detroit just has to play careful and not take penalties to close it out.

Fantastic. Dallas with all the momentum in the world going into game six. The Wings better get their asses in fucking gear or they're done.

Detroit is in trouble if this keeps up. They can't score to save their lives at this point.

Didn't think it would happen but I won one of the lottery spots to purchase Bills in Toronto tickets. It's probably just as expensive (or even cheaper) to go to Buffalo but it'll be a blast either way to see a Bills game in person.

I could be wrong but isn't UndertakerHart before you 909? He hasn't picked yet so Orr could go to him if he so desires.

I was tempted to go with Bobby Orr here but I'll go with my original pick (and it's one I would have made whether I was a Wings fan or not): Gordie Howe, RW 801 goals 1049 assists 1850 points Six time Hart Trophy winner Six time Art Ross Trophy winner Named to the All Star team 23 times (including 12 first team nominations) Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, 1972 Namesake of the Gordie Howe hat trick

Detroit didn't deserve to win tonight. Obviously that no goal was bullshit but even so they didn't cash in on their other chances (and there were plenty) and they also took way too many penalties. They better close it out Saturday or this one is probably going seven. Also, it may just be me but Brian Rafalski is getting on my goddamn nerves. The game winner was pretty much his fault. It's not the first questionable play he's made and way too many of his shots are being blocked. He's not playing horrifically bad or anything but I know he can do much better and that's probably what's pissing me off.