An interesting day in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, as there were a blowout, a 3-0 lead, and a couple series that are now split.
Plus, one guy who looks like he's gunning for the Conn Smythe.
Let's recap Day 5, shall we?
First up, Philadelphia vs. NY Rangers.
It started out well enough with a 2-1 lead for the Rangers. But then they kinda did what they've done through the season, turn sour when they could have won to improve their position.
Also, Ray Emery was much better. He only allowed two goals in the first and shut the door afterward. That, and Lundqvist was not as good as he was in Game 1.
Game 3 is on Tuesday. The series is tied 1-1.
Next, Detroit vs. Boston.
Tuukka Rask has allowed two goals in two games and the series is tied 1-1.
If the guy isn't getting respect, there's a problem.
I don't want to jinx him or anything, but Rask is clearly the best goaltender in these playoffs. It didn't hurt that the rest of the Bruins stepped up and put four in on Jimmy Howard yesterday. There was an especially nice one by Milan Lucic (who's actually pretty good when he's not spearing other players in the man zone) off an assist from Jarome Iginla.
Like the above, the series is tied 1-1 and Game 3 is on Tuesday. Assuming Rask puts in another excellent performance, I'll likely extend more plaudits his way.
Next, Tampa Bay vs. Montreal.
It's official: the Lightning are in trouble. They're down 3-0 and Montreal will be looking to finish up the sweep at home.
Much of the discussion will center around a disallowed goal, but let's be honest here: Montreal has had Tampa's number through these three games, even in the first when Carey Price was less excellent. He shored up whatever holes were there.
And Montreal is now scoring with aplomb, not something that was generally expected.
Game 4 is on Tuesday. Montreal can win and sweep the series, and thus move to the next round.
Finally, Los Angeles vs. San Jose.
The result from this one made me chuckle. 7-2. In a playoff game.
Most people were talking up Jonathan Quick coming into the series. So far, he's flopped pretty hard. As good as Tuukka Rask has been, Quick is just about the opposite through two games.
San Jose's offense was humming on all cylinders with seven guys scoring goals. Joe Pavelski also had two assists to go with his goal. He's a player I tend to watch anyway, just because he seems to be really good. And usually, he is.
I guess the fourth line is what will really surprise people when they look back on the game in the morning. They put up three of the seven goals and were instrumental in getting the game turned to the Sharks' favor.
Game 3 is on Tuesday. The Sharks lead 2-0.
Later on today, Game 3 in Columbus, Minnesota, Chicago, and Dallas.
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