First Night, Second Round

The San Jose Sharks and Detroit Red Wings opened up the second round with quite the game. The Sharks managed to jump out to a big early start, only to have the veteran presence of the Red Wings claw back into the game and keep it close. When it was all said and done, the Sharks managed to hold off the Wings for a 4-3 victory and a 1-0 series lead.

If the Sharks are going to go all the way this Spring, they are likely going to ride on the shoulders of Joe Pavelski, who has carried them through the first round and again though the first game of the second round.  Pavelski led the way against the Red Wings with another strong effort, including 2 goals and an assist, not to mention eventually getting credit with the game-winner for a 4-point night in the pool.  

Other notable players in the game include, Dan Boyle (3 assists), Dany Heatley (goal & assist), Jason Demers (2 assists), Johan Franzen (goal & assist) and Pavel Datsyuk (2 assists).

It should come as no surprise when the injury listing for the evening says "undisclosed," especially when it's one of your team's top three scorers. Patrick Marleau was a scratch for Game One against the Red Wings.  According to the broadcast on Thursday night, he didn't take the skate with the team in the morning and was made a late scratch just before the start.  Of course there won't be any word on what his status will be for Game Two until just before the game. 

Tonight's Games


Just like the Red Wings the night before, the Canadiens didn't have long to wait before their next series got started.  Friday's only game will be Game One between the Penguins and the Habs in Pittsburgh.  You would have to think that the legs of Montreal are still buzzing after their thrilling Game Seven win over Washington, but the Penguins and their weathered legs must have enjoyed some time off from intensive game action before starting a new series.