Good news and bad news

Hockey Playoffs, Round 1

Good news: The Griffins looked great dispatching the Toronto Marlies in 5 games, including two overtime victories. The team went 1-1 at home and 3-0 on the road. In fact, we won two games in Toronto with our third string goalie, since our first stringer was called up to Detroit and our second stringer is out with a long term injury. The Griffins looked confident beating a team with a hot, experienced goalie that gave them fits all season. Next we play Manitoba in the Division Finals. The Moose (yes Katie W, they are the Manitoba Moose, but you still aren’t allowed to cheer for them!) are another good team with a great goalie, so they will be another good challenge for the Griffins. At least we don’t have to worry about anyone being called up in this series because…

Bad news: The Red Wings got their asses handed to them by Edmonton, losing in 6 games. The Wings have way more talent, but they didn’t bring it when it mattered. The only Wings players that caught my eye as having a good series were Lebda, Kronwall, and Zetterberg. Captain Steve Yzerman’s injury and absence did not help as he is the heart and soul of the team. The Wings rested on their laurels, expecting Edmonton to just roll over. When they didn’t, the Wings didn’t adjust and up their game in time to avoid being ousted in the first round. The have only won one playoff series since their last Stanley Cup in 2002. The regular season excellence of the past few years means nothing when you can’t win in the playoffs.