Devils’ struggles continue
Whatever you think of New Jersey’s recent 6-game losing streak, you can’t put the blame on Marty Brodeur. His defense in front of him has been non-Devil like. They’re giving up nearly 36 shots a game in the last 8 games, which they’ve lost 7. Also, the offense has run dry as they’ve scored a grand total of 7 goals during this losing streak. And it’s interesting to point out that these struggles have come immediately after Brodeur’s celebratory 552nd win.

Last year they had a brutal 5-game losing streak at this same time in the season, and ended up losing in 5 games to the Rangers in the first round. I think it’s important for them to get on a groove heading into the playoffs. I don’t think they’ll draw the Rangers in the opening round, which is a good thing for New Jersey. The Devils’ schedule eases up a bit, so it’s possible that they win 4 of 5 (or all 5) heading into the postseason.

Sabres basically done in a flash
The look on Ryan Miller’s face after Ilya Kovalchuk’s winner last night told the whole story. Shock, awe, and disappointment… he knew right then and there that Buffalo’s season basically went down the drain with their frustrating OT loss to the Thrashers. Thomas Vanek scored 2 goals in regulation last night, but ended being the goat for his turnover that led to Kovalchuk’s breakaway goal.

Another season of mediocrity in Buffalo has to fire up the questions about Lindy Ruff and Darcy Regier’s job status. The Sabres don’t have an identity. Their pretty good offensively, pretty good defensively… but it doesn’t seem to blend into any consistency. The franchise has missed out on the playoffs 5 of the last 7 seasons. This is a big offseason for the Sabres, whether they clean house or try to patch it up as always. Nevertheless, it’s going to be a long summer in upstate New York.

Canucks are my favorite to win west
Here’s why:
- (Knock on wood) No significant injuries
- They’ve been the hottest team in the league over the last 2 months.
- Roberto Luongo… think about this… Luongo was dominant in the 2007 playoffs, posting a 1.77 GAA and a .941 save percentage. But Vancouver couldn’t get past Anaheim in the 2nd round because of an abysmal offense. If Luongo can put up those numbers again this spring, there’s no doubt in my mind that the Canucks will represent the west in the Cup Finals.
- Improved offense… like I said above, offense has been their weakness since the lockout. Breakout seasons by Burrows & Kesler, along with the additions of Sundin & Demitra have made this team 6 games away from capturing the Northwest Division title. They can win a game any way… 5-4, 2-1, you name it.

And when you look at San Jose & Detroit… they’re quite vulnerable. The Sharks’ frame of mind as they get deeper into the playoffs has to be a weakness (not a strength) until they get that monkey off their back. They’ve also been hit by the injury bug often this year. For the Red Wings, goaltending has been their big bugaboo this year, whether it’s ‘Ozzie’ or ‘Conks’ in net. Also, the last time they won it all, they were swept in the 1st round by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim!

[Source: RedLightDistrict.com]

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