NHL FanHouse

Cam Ward Taken to Hospital Following Cut on Leg

Adam Gretz — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 22:30:00 EST

Filed under: Blue Jackets, Hurricanes, NHL Injuries

Scary moment in Columbus on Saturday night as Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Cam Ward had to leave the game early in the first period and be taken to a hospital after receiving cut on his leg following a collision with the skate blade of Blue Jackets forward Rick Nash.

Ward was down for quite a while, and as he slowly made his way to the bench blood could be seen on the ice. Video after the jump (and it's not as graphic as you might think. It's hard to even see what happened).

According to Hurricanes head coach Paul Maurice following the game, Ward's injury is "significant." Obviously the first thing that comes to mind when talking about players being injured by skate blades are the horrific accidents involving former Buffalo Sabres goalie Clint Malarchuk and former Florida Panthers forward Richard Zednik.

Hopefully for Ward's sake, his injury isn't anywhere near as serious.

As for the game itself, the Hurricanes dropped their 12th in a row, 3-2, and fall to 2-11-3 overall. They currently have a league-worst seven points in the standings.

Cam Ward Taken to Hospital Following Cut on Leg originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 22:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Carolina's Nightmare Start Continues

Adam Gretz — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, Sharks

Newsmakers in the NHL: During the regular season it's our weekday look at the previous night's action and some of the story lines taking place around the league. Have a tip or something you want linked? Send it in to nhlfanhouse@gmail.com.

Sharks 5, Hurricanes 1: Six months ago, the Carolina Hurricanes were in the Eastern Conference Final, just four wins away from playing for the right to claim Lord Stanley's Cup. Granted, they were swept in four straight games by the team that eventually won it all, but the point remains, they were one of the final four teams playing in the NHL. Fast forward to early November, and the 'Canes find themselves near the bottom of the standings, having now lost nine straight games, including Sunday's 5-1 drubbing at home against San Jose.

Through the first 13 games of this season, only one team -- Toronto -- has fewer points than Carolina's seven, while no team has scored fewer than its 28 goals. The 'Canes are also tied with Toronto for the most goals allowed with 50. Over their past three losses, they've been outscored by a lopsided 16-4 margin.

On an individual level, Eric Staal, who left Sunday's loss with an injury, has just five points (three goals, two assists), while Cam Ward, the franchise goaltender, has been mediocre at best between the pipes.

If you're a 'Canes fan, I guess the optimistic viewpoint is that there's still 69 games to play in the regular season (and that's a lot of hockey) and it's pretty hard to imagine that Staal and Ward, the two players that make this team go, are going to continue to be this bad. Still, as far as bad starts go, it's hard to picture one worse than this.

Sunday's Other Games

Marian Gaborik returned to the lineup for the Rangers and scored the only goal (his 11th of the season) in a 1-0 win over Boston. Henrik Lundqvist stopped all 29 shots he faced for his first shutout of the season. [Box Score, Recap]

The Blue Jackets defeated Washington in overtime. The Capitals played most of the game without the services of Alex Ovechkin. [Box Score, Ovechkin Hurt]

Andrew Raycroft steps up and gets the shutout in Vancouver's 3-0 win over Colorado. [Box Score, Recap]

Loose Pucks

-- The top five goalie masks in the NHL. Of the top two, my personal preference would be Josh Harding's, but still some solid choices. This is important because ... [The Program]

-- ... this past weekend was the anniversary of Jacques Plante becoming the first goaltender to protect his face/head with a mask. [Puck Daddy]

-- And one more on goalie masks, this from Bruce M at the Copper & Blue. [The Copper & Blue]

Video Of The Day

Awesome sequence in the Carolina vs. San Jose game, as Evgeni Nabokov makes a huge save at one end of the ice, which leads to a two-on-one rush for the Sharks that is finished with Marc-Edouard Vlasic's second goal of the season.

Monday's Key Games

Islanders vs. Oilers: This would have been an outstanding matchup 24 years ago. The New York Islanders have won three in a row, and they look to add to their streak when Dustin Penner and the Edmonton Oilers come to town.

Lightning vs. Flyers: The Flyers are just 3-4-1 over their past eight games, but are coming off a 6-1 dismantling of Carolina over the weekend. They host Steven Stamkos and the Tampa Bay Lightning who have earned a point in four straight contests.

Coyotes vs. Kings: Two teams off to their best starts in quite some team face off in Phoenix. It's already the third meeting of the season between these two squads, with each team winning one.

Carolina's Nightmare Start Continues originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tuomo Ruutu Suspended 3 Games for Hit on Darcy Tucker

Adam Gretz — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 13:10:00 EST

Filed under: Avalanche, Hurricanes, NHL Injuries, NHL Videos, NHL Discipline

The NHL acted fast in determining a punishment for Carolina Hurricanes forward Tuomo Ruutu, suspending him three games for his hit on Colorado's Darcy Tucker Friday night.

Just a little over five minutes into the second period, Ruutu hit Tucker from behind into the boards, knocking him unconscious on the ice. Tucker was eventually taken off on a stretcher and, according to the team, suffered a concussion. He remained in the hospital overnight and is expected to be released on Saturday, according to TSN.

Ruutu was issued a five-minute major for boarding and given a game misconduct following the hit.

The Avalanche responded with a goal on the ensuing power play before winning the game, 5-4, and continuing their impressive early season performance that currently has them atop the Western Conference with a 7-1-1 record.

Tuomo Ruutu Suspended 3 Games for Hit on Darcy Tucker originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Sat, 24 Oct 2009 13:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Darcy Tucker Removed on Stretcher After Hit From Tuomo Ruutu

Tom Mantzouranis — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:49:00 EST

Filed under: Avalanche, Hurricanes, NHL Injuries

Avalanche forward Darcy Tucker was immobilized and taken away on a stretcher after he was checked into the boards by Carolina forward Tuomo Ruutu.

The hit came just over five minutes into the second period in Friday night's game in Colorado. Tucker had turned away from Ruutu to play the puck, and Ruutu drove Tucker into the glass from behind. The game was tied 2-2 at the time.

Video of the hit after the jump.

UPDATE: Tuomo Ruutu Suspended for 3 Games

After falling to his back, the gritty forward was motionless as doctors attended to him. He was able to move his right arm as he was taken off the ice. The team has announced that he has regained full consciousness and is fully alert, though he suffered a concussion and needed stitches.

Ruutu was assessed a major penalty for boarding and a game misconduct. Colorado was able to take advantage, with Milan Hejduk breaking the tie on the ensuing power play. The Avalanche scored right after the penalty expired, as well, before Carolina was able to draw back within a goal, 4-3, to end the second period. After a couple more goals, Colorado held on to win 5-4.

Tucker had the worst season of his career in 2008, but has been a microcosm of the Avalanche team this year, exceeding expectations. Healthy and seemingly refreshed, he's been able to play the type of blue-collar game that made him a fan favorite in his time with the Maple Leafs. With six points in nine games for the first-place Avalanche, the timing of the hit and any ensuing injuries is awful.

Darcy Tucker Removed on Stretcher After Hit From Tuomo Ruutu originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:49:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fight of the Week: Pairing Off

Bruce Ciskie — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Avalanche, Flames, Hurricanes, Islanders, Oilers, Wild, NHL Fights, NHL Videos

Every Friday, FanHouse sifts through the rubble and picks the best NHL fight, with the help of HockeyFights.com.

Sometimes, one fight just isn't good enough. Such was the case in Calgary recently, as the Flames and Canucks met for one of six matchups between the division rivals this season. It took just 2:32 for two fights to break out. Even though there were two good scraps going on at once, there was a clear winner for our Fight of the Week honors.

Beatdown of the Week: David Koci vs. Derek Boogaard

Boogaard missed the first few games of the season, and he hasn't had many opportunities to drop the gloves. In fact, this fight with Koci was his first of the season. Needless to say, the Wild fan favorite didn't look very rusty, as he quickly and decisively polished off Koci.

Runner Up: Rick Rypien vs. Zack Stortini

If we measured the quality of a fight simply by counting the number of punches thrown, this one would be a solid candidate for the best fight of the season. However, the problem is that Rypien appeared to throw the vast majority of the punches, and Stortini struggled to get any shots in.

Runner Up: Scott Walker vs. Brendan Witt

Walker is a proven tough guy in this league, and this looked like a bit of a mismatch when it started. The heavily-tattooed Witt held his own, however, and helped turn this into a very entertaining fight. In the end, though, it's hard to argue against this being anything but a decisive win for Walker.

Fight(s) of the Week: Darcy Hordichuk vs. Brian McGrattan/Tanner Glass vs. Brandon Prust

The Prust/Glass fight was pretty solid, but it doesn't hold a candle to McGrattan battling Hordichuk. The two exchanged some solid blows right up to the end, which came when McGrattan absolutely leveled Hordichuk with a right. Prust and Glass got off to a fast start, but it quickly turned into a wrestling match on ice. The linesmen broke it up when they were up against the glass for too long.

Fight of the Week: Pairing Off originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Islanders Notch First Win in Shootout

Christopher Botta — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:25:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, Islanders

UNIONDALE, N.Y. -- The New York Islanders joined the ranks of the NHL's teams with victories this season when they went 3-for-3 in the shootout to defeat the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3 on Monday night at Nassau Coliseum.

"It's a relief," said Islanders coach Scott Gordon.

The 0-6-1 Maple Leafs are now the league's only winless team. Toronto's next game is Saturday in Vancouver. The Islanders (1-3-3) play Thursday in Montreal.

Jeff Tambellini, Frans Nielsen and John Tavares scored the three shootout goals for the Islanders against Hurricanes netminder Cam Ward. Dwayne Roloson allowed one to Jussi Jokinen but stopped Sergei Samsonov. Up 2-1 in the shootout, Tavares's goal sealed the second point for the Islanders.

"I wanted to make sure I sold the fake," said Tavares, "and got the puck up and under the crossbar."

The Islanders' first win of the season was not without drama. Leading 3-1 midway through the third period, the Islanders appeared to be riding all the momentum after killing a penalty to Andy Sutton, who looked for revenge after Carolina's Andrew Alberts hit Tavares with an unpenalized late hit. Instead the Islanders' penchant for blowing third period leads continued when Eric Staal scored at 14:01 and Jokinen followed up at 15:03 to tie the game.

"A perfect way to end the game would have been at 3-1," said Sutton. "But I thought we kept our composure and finished the game strong. We've worked hard since the start of the season and have had our share of bad luck. We'll take a win any way we can, and we'll enjoy it and see if we can string a few together."

The Islanders were led in regulation by their high-skilled youngsters like Tavares and Kyle Okposo, but also by gritty and clutch performances by several of their grinders and by Sutton. The 6-6 Sutton, encouraged by head coach Scott Gordon to skate and move the puck despite his reputation as a stay-at-homer, collected a goal and assist.

Sutton's assist came on a first period goal by Matt Moulson, who said the big defenseman "looked like Paul Coffey" on the play. The Islanders took a 3-1 lead on a pair of goals less than a minute apart in the to middle of the second period by fourth-line right wing Tim Jackman (off a nice feed from checking center Nate Thompson) and Sutton, who was fed by unheralded young defenseman Jack Hillen.

With play-making center Frans Nielsen off injured reserve and making his season debut, Gordon was able to roll four effective lines. Still, the Islanders were not able to hold the two-goal lead late in the third period.

"We didn't quit," said Gordon. "The bench was lively. It was more like, 'Let's go get this.' "

Perhaps they just wanted to put the puck on their franchise phenom's stick in the shootout with the game on the line.
"It's great to be part of my first win in the NHL, but it's really special for everybody," said Tavares. "Everyone has given all they have to the team and we've just come up short. Now that we finally have our first win, we have to get on a roll and get into the Eastern Conference picture."

Islanders Notch First Win in Shootout originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cam Ward: The Best Goalie Hardly Anyone Knows

Christopher Botta — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, FanHouse Exclusive

The Carolina Hurricanes will only go as far as Cam Ward takes them, so it's a good thing Ward has emerged as one of the top goaltenders in the National Hockey League.

"He's our guy," said Carolina coach Paul Maurice, who did not want to rank his goaltender but said, "He gives us a chance to win as frequently as any goalie in the league."

The Hurricanes' most recent game was the latest proof. In a 2-0 loss in New Jersey on Saturday, Ward made a half-dozen dazzling stops over the first two periods. Among the best: stacking the pads on Jamie Langenbrunner, alone in front after a centering pass from Zach Parise, with 16 seconds left in the first period. A sliding save on Nicklas Bergfors mid-first. A Hasek-ian sprawl and shaft poke check (yes, that's correct) on Travis Zajac in the final seconds of the second period to keep the game scoreless.

As Ward made the highlight-reel stop on Zajac, a press box scout said, "That's the Tommy Barrasso influence."
Told about the remark, the 25-year-old Ward laughed in recognition. Barrasso, a No. 1 goalie for most of his 18-year NHL career, is now an assistant coach with the Hurricanes. "Tom has encouraged me to challenge more, to be more aggressive," Ward said in a cell phone conversation before his team charter left for New York and a game against the Islanders on Wednesday. "Probably the biggest impact he's made on me is with my work habits. Even in practice, I don't want any pucks to get behind me."

Ward plays like he practices. Although he led the Hurricanes to the Stanley Cup in 2006 as a rookie, the 25th overall pick in the 2002 draft continues to improve. Last season the Alberta native set personal bests with a 2.44 GAA and .916 save percentage. He was rewarded in September with a six-year contract extension worth $37.8 million.

While Ward does not receive much national intention, he is among the favorites for selection to Team Canada for the Winter Olympics in February. If he makes it, there's a good chance he'll be teammates with Martin Brodeur, who shut out Ward's Hurricanes on Saturday night in Newark. After the game, it was almost startling to hear the 37-year-old Brodeur, who passes out compliments to opponents as often as he backs up Yann Danis, show so much respect toward Ward. "Cam is such a good goalie," said Brodeur. "Any time you play against the best you have to raise your game."

"That's very flattering to hear, coming from Martin," Ward said three days later. "I mean, right back at him. It's amazing when you hear some people start to write him off year after year. I don't see it. I certainly didn't see it when he shut us out on Saturday. He's as good as ever."

For Carolina to have any chance of keeping up with the class of the East like Washington and Pittsburgh, they'll need Ward at his best. Actually, the Hurricanes are counting on it. "Cam's even-keeled, confident, reliable," said Maurice, who adds that his goalie is so low-maintenance that their conversations rarely go much deeper than "hello" while getting coffee in the locker room. "Cam's as capable as any goalie of coming up with that game-changing, spectacular save. It says a lot that our defense loves playing in front of him. I think that's because he's in control at all times."

His calm demeanor was on stage while backstopping Carolina to the Stanley Cup at the age of 22. Management is not worried about Ward burning out in the game's most psychologically-taxing position because they know his outlook each day at the rink.

Since the beginning of his youth hockey days, Ward was encouraged by his father to enjoy the challenge of netminding instead of being burdened by it. With his dad's words in mind, Ward writes "Have Fun" on all of his sticks.

"From peewee to juniors, the Stanley Cup Final and wherever the game takes me," said Ward, "I've always taken Dad's words to heart."

They have served him well.

Cam Ward: The Best Goalie Hardly Anyone Knows originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Like Cream Rising, Brodeur Stops Canes

Christopher Botta — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 23:11:00 EST

Filed under: Devils, Hurricanes

NEWARK, N.J. -- For Martin Brodeur, the first victory of the year on home ice never gets old.

When the horn blared after the Devils' 2-0 victory over Carolina on Saturday night, the 37-year-old future first ballot Hall of Fame goaltender raised his stick high and grinned like it was his first NHL win instead of his 561st.

"I always celebrate," Brodeur said after his 26-save shutout of Carolina for the Devils' first win at the Prudential Centre after three unsuccessful attempts. "Getting the first home win is important. It took too long this time, but we have to get our home-ice advantage back. This was a start."

Like everything at this early point in the Devils' 4-3-0 season, little came easily.

In a goaltending duel between potential Canadian Olympic teammates Brodeur and Cam Ward, a scoreless tie was broken by the Devils 26 seconds into the third period. After a poke check by Ward, the puck caromed off captain Jamie Langenbrunner and into the Carolina net for the game-winner. Other than Langenbrunner's upper body goal (an empty-netter by Zach Parise with 40 seconds left clinched the game), the offensively-challenged Devils worked hard but could not get anything past Ward.

Brodeur, who is now just one regular season shutout shy of Terry Sawchuk's NHL record of 103, knew it was going to come down to him vs. Ward.

"When we scored the first goal, I was thinking that might be it, that might be all the production I'm going to get tonight," Brodeur said with a slight laugh. "Cam is such a good goalie. I'm always impressed by him. Any time you play against one of the best, you have to raise your game."

Devils head coach Jacques Lemaire said it was an easy decision to come back with Brodeur after his team lost 4-2 to Atlanta on home ice on Friday night. The coach pointed out that his team does not play again until Thursday against the Rangers in Madison Square Garden. When Brodeur made a sliding save on a 2-on-1 early in the game, Lemaire said, "It was all downhill. That's how we know him. That's the type of game he can play."

While he stuck with Brodeur, Lemaire made many adjustments to his lineup. The biggest was breaking up New Jersey's No. 1 line of Travis Zajac centering Parise and Langenbrunner, a line Lemaire said in the preseason he was likely to stick with most of the year. The returning head coach placed Dainius Zubrus between his top wings and Zajac between skilled youngsters Matt Halischuk and Niclas Bergfors. He was happy with the results.

"I feel much better with what we have right now," said Lemaire, who discussed the changes with his players before the game. For his part, Parise understood the change. "It's not like we were scoring four or five goals a game," he said.

For the third game in a row and fourth in five, the Devils made a game tougher with the self-inflicted wound of a too many men on the ice penalty. "I think we're practicing our penalty kill," Lemaire joked.

When you win, mistakes can be laughed off -- especially when it's your first victory at home and the players have a day off before three days of practices.

"Yeah, we needed this," said Brodeur. "You don't want to have four days without games after you've lost two in a row at home. (Former coach) Pat Burns was the first guy to come in here and preach about winning at home. He said there were a lot of advantages -- you can match lines, you're coming to the games from your own homes, you play in front of your own fans. Pat always said you have to win these home games because you never know what the road might bring."

ETC: Saturday night was the first meeting between the two teams since "The Shock at the Rock," when Carolina scored twice in the final minutes of Game 7 to win an opening round playoff series over New Jersey last season.

The Devils scratched D Cory Murphy, LW Andrew Peters and RW Ilkka Pikkarainen. The Hurricanes scratched D Jay Harrison and are without RW Erik Cole (broken bone in leg -- expected back in a month). D Joni Pitkanen returned after missing five games with a lower body injury.

After the game, Lemaire raved about the play of rookie left wing Niclas Bergfors. "I liked him from day one," said the coach. "I think he is a player. Him and Matt (Halischuk), they never stop."

According to a published report, Devils all-time leading scorer Patrik Elias is slated to return to the lineup on Nov. 4, a home game against Washington. Elias underwent groin surgery on Sept. 15.

Hurricanes C Eric Staal played in his 343rd consecutive regular season game. To tie the franchise record of 419 set by now-Phoenix coach Dave Tippett, Staal would have to play in every game this season and the opener in 2010-11. The 24-year-old Staal is one of just six NHL players with 30 or more goals in each of the last four seasons, joining Dany Heatley, Jarome Iginla, Ilya Kovalchuk, Alexander Ovechkin and Henrik Zetterberg.

Like Cream Rising, Brodeur Stops Canes originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Sat, 17 Oct 2009 23:11:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Cam Ward Robs Bill Guerin

Adam Gretz — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:50:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, Penguins, NHL Videos

The Carolina Hurricanes rewarded Cam Ward with a six-year contract extension this past summer, and based on Wednesday's game against Pittsburgh, it was money well spent.

The Hurricanes overcame a 2-0 third period deficit to force overtime, and while Ray Whitney scored both goals in the rally, it was Ward that made it possible with his sprawling glove-save on Bill Guerin after some tic-tac-toe passing from Sidney Crosby and Chris Kunitz midway through the third period.

Video after the jump.

It doesn't get much better than that.

Carolina ultimately lost in a shootout, 3-2, but it still managed to pick up a point in the standings it otherwise wouldn't have received had it not been for Ward's stellar play in net. He also made another highlight reel glove save in overtime, robbing Evgeni Malkin on a wrist shot from the slot, and dueled Marc-Andre Fleury in a six-round shootout.

Kunitz, who still hasn't scored a goal in regulation in over 35 games, recorded the game-winner for the Penguins as they completed a perfect 4-0 road trip and improve to 6-1 on the season.

(glove tap to the HF boards for the video)

Video: Cam Ward Robs Bill Guerin originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:50:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fight of the Week: Long, Competitive Southeast Division Scrap

Bruce Ciskie — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Flames, Hurricanes, Kings, Lightning, Oilers, Sharks, Thrashers, NHL Fights, NHL Videos

Every Friday, FanHouse sifts through the rubble and picks the best NHL fight, with the help of HockeyFights.com.

Fighting will always be controversial. Many fans say that it's as much a part of hockey as the ice is. Others would rather it went away, even if they may secretly enjoy it. However, it seems that fighting is here to stay in the NHL. This week's card included a few heavyweight bouts, an unlikely matchup in Alberta, and a rather long, intense fight between division rivals.

Honorable Mention: Craig Conroy vs. Sam Gagner

Video can be found here. No, the Oilers haven't signed an enforcer named Sam Gagner. The young, dynamic center apparently thought it was his job to use his fists to ignite his team. CBC's Mark Lee was almost incredulous. The best part? Big Zach Stortini of Edmonton was a spectator.

Runner-Up: Jay Harrison vs. Milan Lucic

The video is here. Sometimes, a fight's quality is hurt because it doesn't last long enough. Harrison had good intentions here, but he was completely overmatched, and he ended up wearing the ol' crimson mask because of his decision to try to fight Lucic. Quality visual on this one, and great work by Lucic, but it was too much of a mismatch to climb atop the list for this week.

Runner-Up: Jody Shelley vs. Raitis Ivanans

Watch the video here. Shelley's teammate looked to throw an unnecessary hit on an icing play, and Ivanans did his job, going after the heavyweight and sticking up for a teammate. Good scrap between fighters who share space in the Pacific Division, so they're probably familiar with each other's work.

Fight of the Week: Zenon Konopka vs. Chris Thorburn

Konopka has never played more than 23 games in an NHL season. He was up against a slightly bigger and more experienced Thorburn in this fight from Saturday's Thrasher home opener. The two combined for one of the longer fights of the week, and there was some serious intensity from both sides.

Fight of the Week: Long, Competitive Southeast Division Scrap originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Justin Pogge Goes to Anaheim; Hurricanes Sue Hip-Hop Artist

Adam Gretz — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, Maple Leafs

The federal lawsuit accuses Tyrone Banks of misusing trademarks by referring to the tune as "the official Carolina Hurricanes song" and wearing a Hurricanes jersey in promotional material. "We look at our name and our trademarks as our most valuable assets, and they need to be protected," said William Traurig, general counsel for the Hurricanes. Banks produced "Carolina Hurricanes" in 2007 and provided a copy of the song to the team, asking the Hurricanes play the music during games, according to court documents. The lawsuit said the Hurricanes did use the song during games and short segments of it appeared in a television ad and online video. Banks also received complimentary tickets to a game, when the Hurricanes played the song, highlighted Banks in the audience and displayed his name on the scoreboard. "Carolina Hurricanes. That's our team, say the name," the song's chorus repeats. But the Hurricanes say Banks is promoting sales of the song in a way that would incorrectly suggest an affiliation between him and the team.

Never been a huge fan of team theme songs. Brass Bonzana, of course, being the lone exception.

Loose Pucks

... Free agent forward Mike Grier signs with the Buffalo Sabres. [TSN]

... Litter Box Cats recalls the original EA Sports cover boy, Randy Moller. [Litter Box Cats]

... Blue Shirt Banter has some questions regarding Brandon Dubinsky. [Blue Shirt Banter]

Justin Pogge Goes to Anaheim; Hurricanes Sue Hip-Hop Artist originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NHL's Top 50: Eric Staal (No. 18)

Adam Gretz — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, NHL Fans, NHL Videos

FanHouse's Adam Gretz takes a look at his top 50 players in the NHL. No. 18 is Carolina Hurricanes forward Eric Staal.

The return of Paul Maurice behind the Hurricanes' bench in December ignited a furious second-half rally that saw Carolina enter the postseason as one of the hottest teams in the NHL. The 'Canes upset the New Jersey Devils in in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinal, thanks in large part to an unexpected meltdown by Martin Brodeur and the Devils' defense in Game 7. In the second round, the Hurricanes again pulled off an upset, knocking off the No. 1 seed Boston Bruins. Leading the way was former No. 2 overall pick Eric Staal. He was a dominant force through the opening two rounds, scoring 10 goals in his first 14 playoff games.

The NHL's Top 50 Players: See the Entire List

The Numbers: Eric Staal
Eric Staal	Goals	Assists	Points	Pim
Career Totals	164	194	358	289
Average Per 82 Games	32.8	38.5	72.1	58.2

Draft Year: 2003

The first skater taken in the '03 draft after goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury went No. 1 overall. Six years later, he's been the most productive player in one of the best drafts in recent memory.

Why He's On My List

In his first five NHL seasons, Staal has already registered four 30-goal campaigns, and twice eclipsed the 40-goal plateau. During the 2008-09 season, he led the Hurricanes with 40 goals and 75 points, while also setting a franchise record with four hat tricks, including a four-goal performance in a 9-3 rout of the Tampa Bay Lightning on March 7, 2009. He was one of the main reasons (along with the play of goaltender Cam Ward) that the Hurricanes managed to knock off the top-seeded Boston Bruins (as well as the New Jersey Devils) to make a surprising run to the Eastern Conference Finals. In his two playoff appearances, he's been a point-per-game player, including a team-high 28 points in 25 games in 2005-06 when the Hurricanes won the first Stanley Cup in franchise history. A three-time All-Star that has missed just one game in his career (during his rookie season).

Obligatory YouTube Video

Eric Staal's day with the Stanley Cup.

NHL's Top 50: Eric Staal (No. 18) originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 09:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Zubov Not Going to Columbus; Starting the Islanders Bandwagon a Year Early

Adam Gretz — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Blue Jackets, Hurricanes, Islanders, Rangers, NHL Free Agency

Newsmakers in the NHL: During the regular season it's our daily look at the previous night's action. During the offseason, we'll look at some of the storylines and moves taking place around the league three times per week. Have a tip or something you want linked? Send it in to nhlfanhouse@gmail.com.

No Zubov For Columbus

On Sunday, Aaron Portzline of the Columbus-Dispatch reported on how Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson is prepared to enter the season with the team's current defensive lineup, and that despite a connection between free agent rearguard Sergei Zubov and current head coach Ken Hitchcock, the team has no interest in the veteran. Actually, he doesn't seem to have interest in anybody at this point. Even with Howson's desire to enter the season as is, the Blue Jackets could certainly use some punch from their defense.

Seidenberg And Babchuk Not Returning To Carolina

Hurricanes general manager Jim Rutherford told the News & Observer's Cane's Now blog that the recent trade for Aaron Ward (yeah, that Aaron Ward) means Dennis Seidenberg and Anton Babchuk will not be returning to the team for the 2009-10 season. Seidenberg, still an unrestricted free agent despite his career-year, would be a solid fit for a team that lacks a puck-moving defenseman that can also block some shots (Hello, Columbus).

As for Babchuk, Rutherford had this to say, again from the News & Observer: "We've moved on from him. He's either going to get traded or I guess his other option is to play in Russia." He scored 16 goals for the Hurricanes in '08-09 and has an absolute cannon for a shot.

Bandwagons Aren't Just For Good Teams Anymore

Robby Krevat, a self-proclaimed life-long Rangers fan, admitted on Bleacher Report this past Sunday that he is now rooting for the New York Islanders because, in his words: "I can relate to them, because of what I think they are going to do for a sport that I love, around the corner from my house. I would love to see the Cup in my neighborhood and I believe the Islanders at this moment give New York it's best shot."

New York's best shot? Look, we're all excited about John Tavares, but let's not go crazy here. Then again, he's not the only one giving up on the blue shirts. Ryan Dixon of The Hockey News recently suggested that the Rangers could be "awful" this season, and that the Islanders just might be the most interesting team to watch in the New York market (Devils included!).

It's important to remind everyone in these crazy offseason times that the Rangers and Devils were both in the playoffs this past season, each playing in a Game 7, while the Islanders are likely headed for the draft lottery yet again.

Loose Pucks

-- The Hockey Writers have some impressions from the Calgary Flames prospect development camp.

-- Goon's World breaks down the Boston Bruins' current salary cap situation following the signing of free agent defenseman Derek Morris.

-- This can't be the start the St. Louis Blues were looking for, especially after all of the injuries the team played through this past season. Defenseman Eric Brewer may not be ready for the season opener according to Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Zubov Not Going to Columbus; Starting the Islanders Bandwagon a Year Early originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aaron Ward, Former Scott Walker Punching Bag, Now His Teammate

Bruce Ciskie — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:20:00 EST

Filed under: Bruins, Hurricanes, Eastern

During the Carolina Hurricanes' run to the Eastern Conference Finals, forward/pest Scott Walker made headlines for the wrong reason.

As the Bruins polished off a win over Carolina to stay alive in Game 5, Walker got mixed up with Boston defenseman Aaron Ward, a skirmish that ended with Walker punching Ward in the face. The incident didn't draw Walker a suspension, but he was forced to try to explain himself. Now, Walker and Ward will be coming face to face a bit more often.

On Friday, the Bruins traded Ward to the Hurricanes. The deal was in exchange for forward Patrick Eaves -- who played his college hockey at Boston College -- and a fourth-round pick in 2010. The Bruins then waived Eaves and will buy out his remaining contract, meaning they essentially dealt an effective, valuable defenseman for a fourth-round pick.

As David Lefort notes, the Bruins may have done this to clear salary cap room so they can get forward Phil Kessel signed. They may also be trying to deal Kessel for a top defenseman. With Ward gone, there is still only a small amount of cap space available, so Boston isn't done making moves.

The Hurricanes, meanwhile, pick up a steady, veteran defenseman who has three Stanley Cups to his credit (Ward was on the 2006 Carolina team that won it all). The 36-year-old isn't a dynamic offensive threat, but he won't back down from anyone, and he doesn't make a ton of mistakes in his own zone. He's a great fit on a Carolina team that has their share of puck-moving blue-liners.

One has to think that the Walker-Ward dynamic is nothing more than a bit of irony. While it might seem a bit awkward, the two shook hands like gentlemen after the Boston-Carolina series ended, and there's no reason to think they won't get along just fine, at least as teammates.

Aaron Ward, Former Scott Walker Punching Bag, Now His Teammate originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Offseason Roadmap: Southeast Division

Tom Mantzouranis — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:37:00 EST

Filed under: Capitals, Hurricanes, Lightning, Panthers, Thrashers

It's officially the offseason, meaning the time is right to look into the future. We continue our division-by-division preview of the potential wheeling and dealing with the Southeast Division.

The Southeast is probably going to be the most boring division in hockey this offseason. Three of the teams don't have the financial capability to make the sort of splash they need, and the other two were good enough to mostly maintain the status quo.

Still, we've got two top-5 draft picks to look forward to, as well as the ongoing sagas surrounding the stars for both Florida franchises.

Atlanta Thrashers: We know (or are being told) this much: the Thrashers are hanging on to Ilya Kovalchuk. But to have a chance of keeping him around past this year, the last of his deal, they'll have to put a better team around him. With only $30.8 currently committed to 17 players, they've got the financial situation to make it happen this year. But considering that they'd be stocking up their roster in an effort to have the chance to ink Kovalchuk to a huge contract next year, they have to spend this year with an eye on ensuing seasons. In other words, they have ample cap space, but they have to ration a chunk of it on Kovalchuk in lieu of making a splash this offseason.

But they might not be too far from being competitive, anyway. They've got very solid young pieces locked up cheap in Zach Bogosian, Bryan Little, and Anssi Salmela.

They need some top-line guys to pair with Kovalchuk and a top-four defenseman. And they've got some pieces to deal, including the No. 4 pick in this week's draft and depth at goalie in a weak free agent market at the position (especially if they re-sign Kari Lehtonen, who's a restricted free agent). That won't be enough to net any real "wow" guys, but it could still improve the team's quality and depth (which is sorely lacking). With slight improvements on the roster and the continued ascension of those young guys, the Thrashers could be in the playoff chase next year, or at least show enough potential to convince Kovalchuk to stick around and watch it blossom.

Carolina Hurricanes: They've got their coach of the future (for the second time) locked up, but the Hurricanes have trouble brewing on the blue line. Dennis Seidenberg and Anton Babchuk are free agents (unrestricted and restricted, respectively), and the team is uncertain whether they can retain both, or either. After all, they have some key players to lock up at forward too -- Erik Cole, Tuomo Ruutu, Jussi Jokinen, and Chad LaRose -- and would like to add a physical defenseman, as well, to diversify the back end.

This is probably a team that is going to lose some of its talent, which is unfortunate given that they were closer to the Stanley Cup Finals than their conference final against the Penguins indicated.

Florida Panthers: They took a gamble keeping Jay Bouwmeester at the trade deadline, opting to push for the playoffs instead of getting a return on their impending departure. They're still trying to get something for his negotiating rights, but first things first -- how about hiring a general manager?

The Panthers are like the Thrashers in that they won't be able to spend a lot (the team will also have to pay the rising David Booth a handsome raise in restricted free agency), so they'll be counting on the continued improvement from those like Booth, Stephen Weiss and Karlis Skrastins on top of some additions from the farm, to again get even close to the playoffs.

Tampa Bay Lightning: The team is still sort of in a mess, with the biggest questions surrounding the future of Vincent Lecavalier. What direction they decide to go in, and we'll know that answer soon, will give away their concept of next season.

Dealing him means the Lightning are content with blowing it up and re-building around Steven Stamkos and Victor Hedman, whom they likely will select with the second-overall pick. That's not a bad duo to build around, as Hedman will probably play in the NHL from Day 1. However, by sacrificing the most iconic player in franchise history for a bounty that surely won't have equal value, it's a clear message that Lightning fans should expect another three or so years of equal misery.

They could keep Lecavalier and his enormous contract, on the other hand, and bank on Hedman and some scotch-taping to a woeful blue line being enough to allow the Lightning at least out-score their way out of the land of laughing-stocks.

Washington Capitals: This team is better than their exit point indicated, and when you've got the best scorer (arguably player) in the league and a young goalie who looks to have a bright future, you're going to be OK. And the Capitals have depth up front behind that all-world talent. Still, there's going to be some turnover here. But there will be a reliance on filling those spots from within -- Kari Alzner on defense, perhaps Chris Bourque and Keith Aucoin up front.

Offseason Roadmap: Southeast Division originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:37:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hurricanes Give Maurice 3-Year Deal

Bruce Ciskie — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:20:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, Eastern, NHL Coaching

The Carolina Hurricanes rallied from an awful slump early in the season. A second-half surge got them comfortably into the Stanley Cup playoffs, and they made it all the way to the Eastern Conference finals before running out of gas against eventual champion Pittsburgh.

The architect of this rally was interim coach Paul Maurice, who replaced Peter Laviolette in December. Monday, the organization finally got around to rewarding Maurice for his work.

Maurice gets a three-year contract to stay on as Carolina's coach, and his coaching staff will remain intact.

"When Paul came in, he did a really good job of bringing the coaching staff together," said team general manager Jim Rutherford. "They had good chemistry, and the delegation of certain areas where everybody felt they had an important role in the staff worked well."

The only surprise is that it took so long for this move to be made.

In defense of Rutherford, he's a very good general manager, and he hasn't had this job for so many years because he makes knee-jerk decisions and is never thorough about anything.

Maurice did a superb job once he was hired, but it was his 2003 dismissal in Carolina that paved the way for Laviolette to take the team to a Stanley Cup championship in 2006. Also, Maurice was not exactly successful as coach in Toronto.

For some reason, however, this change of pace worked for the Hurricanes. Now Maurice has the security of a three-year contract as he tries to lead the Hurricanes even farther.

Hurricanes Give Maurice 3-Year Deal originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Penguins Advance to Stanley Cup Finals, Touch Prince of Wales Trophy

Adam Gretz — Tue, 26 May 2009 23:25:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, Penguins, NHL Videos

It's kind of an unwritten rule in hockey that when your team wins the conference championship, you're not supposed to touch the trophy (in the case of the Eastern Conference, the Prince of Wales Trophy) because, in theory, that's not the piece of hardware you strive for. You're not supposed to show it the same respect you would show the Stanley Cup, so, by tradition, few teams ever actually acknowledge its existence, let alone touch it.

Following Pittsburgh's 4-1 win on Tuesday, which gave the Penguins a clean four-game sweep over Carolina in the Eastern Conference final, captain Sidney Crosby not only touched it, he actually carried it off the ice. His reasoning?

Penguins 4, Hurricanes 1: Recap | Box Score
Penguins Win Series 4-0

"We didn't touch it last year," said Crosby in a postgame interview on VERSUS. "And things didn't go the way we wanted, so we thought we'd switch it up this year."

Touche. With the win, Pittsburgh becomes the first team to win the Eastern Conference title in back-to-back years since the New Jersey Devils did so in 1999-00 and 2000-01.

Entering Tuesday's game, Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward had never lost a playoff series in his four year NHL career, which, by extension, means he was previously unbeaten when his team was facing potential elimination games. That all changed on Tuesday, while the dagger had to be the eventual game-winner scored by Max Talbot in the closing minutes of the first period.

Ward is a fantastic young goalie, and his playoff run was tremendous, but that's a goal you can't give up in the preseason, let alone an elimination game in the Conference Final. Despite his overall numbers in the series, Ward was probably Carolina's best player against Pittsburgh, but that goal essentially ended the Hurricanes' season.

So, where did it all go wrong for the Hurricanes?

1) Their top forwards were nonexistent during the four-game series. Eric Staal, Erik Cole and Ray Whitney combined for just one goal and six assists in the series, while Cole has not scored a goal in 31 consecutive playoff games dating all the way back to 2001.

2) Their defense was overwhelmed by the Penguins' forwards. While Carolina's top players were shut down, Pittsburgh's top players were dominant, as Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Bill Guerin combined for 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists). The Penguins scored 20 goals and averaged over 35.5 shots per game, while topping the 40-shot mark in games 2 and 3.

3) Cam Ward couldn't steal a game. Again, Ward was probably Carolina's best player in the series, and had it not been for him, the Penguins might have scored 25 goals instead of the 20 they were limited to. In the end, however, he just couldn't withstand the barrage of shots Pittsburgh put on him.

4) One power play goal. Entering the series, the Hurricanes had the No. 14 ranked power play in the playoffs, and when all was said and done they converted on just one of their 12 opportunities in the conference final.

Carolina was 7-0 this postseason when Staal tallied a goal, so when he notched his first of the series just 1:36 into the first period, jamming a wrap-around shot behind Marc-Andre Fleury, the Hurricanes had to be feeling pretty good. The lead wouldn't last long, as Ruslan Fedotenko re-directed a Philippe Boucher slap shot into a gaping net to tie the score just seven minutes later, which set the stage for Talbot's floater later in the period. Guerin added his seventh of the postseason midway through the second period, while Craig Adams finished it off with an empty-netter.

It's quite a story for the Penguins to return to the Stanley Cup finals, as they were, at one point, the No. 10 team in the Eastern Conference and as many as seven points out of a playoff spot.

Penguins Advance to Stanley Cup Finals, Touch Prince of Wales Trophy originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Tue, 26 May 2009 23:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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By Sounding Siren, Is Bill Cowher Turning His Back on Pittsburgh?

Adam Gretz — Tue, 26 May 2009 16:40:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, Penguins, NHL Fans

Because the NFL rules the sports landscape in North America, it shouldn't be a surprise that Bill Cowher, former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers for 15 years, has worked his way into the storyline of the NHL's Eastern Conference final between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Carolina Hurricanes.

Prior to the start of the series, there was some debate as to Cowher's rooting interest for the series, seeing as how he not only coached in Pittsburgh for a decade-and-a-half, but because he was born and raised in Pittsburgh, and now currently lives in Raleigh, North Carolina. Prior to Tuesday's Game 4, Cowher will be sounding the Hurricanes' pre-game warning siren, and, as far as many people in the steel city are concerned, turning his back on Pittsburgh.

As a resident of Pittsburgh, and a Steelers season ticket holder, this wouldn't really bother me if it weren't for the fact that Cowher is originally from Pittsburgh, and supposedly grew up cheering not only for the Penguins, but for the old AHL team, the Pittsburgh Hornets. And now, all of a sudden, you're a Hurricanes fan? As the Penguins, your hometown team, are just one win away from playing for the Stanley Cup? I don't expect Dan Bylsma, for example, to cheer for the Steelers three years after he's no longer the coach of the Penguins ... but, Bill, you're from Pittsburgh!

The Pens Blog, as only they can, sums it all up if you're a Pittsburgh sports fan:

Cowher, representing the Hurricanes, will fire up the crowd ringing some stupid thing. Some joke Steeler fan who doesn't pay attention to the Pens won't care. But for many Pittsburgh sports fans, this will be considered a slap in the face. Can't wait till he comes back to Pittsburgh, and admist all the cheers, there will be someone booing. And you'll know why. This game will be for that 3rd-and-1 against the Broncos in the 1997 AFC Championship. Bettis was running over the entire NFL that season. Kordell pick city in the end zone.

According to the online poll at PittsburghChannel.com, a majority of the voters are going forward with the belief that Cowher, by showing his support for the Hurricanes, is turning his back on the black and gold.

I asked Don Spagnolo, lead-man at one of Pittsburgh's best sports blogs, Mondesi's House, for his take on Cowher-gate '09:

"I think there's no doubt that Bill Cowher sounding the Hurricanes' siren will tarnish his legacy in the eyes of some Pittsburghers," said Spagnolo. "That's not my opinion, that's just a fact. Pittsburgh, as a whole, is a city that's very sensitive to any perceived slights (see: bitterness over Marian Hossa signing with Detroit). And this will be perceived as a huge slight. It wouldn't be quite as big of a deal if not for the fact that Cowher was born and raised in Pittsburgh. Throw in the fact that he never made a big fuss about attending Pens games when he lived here (at least not the way that Mike Tomlin has, wearing Pens jerseys and such), and you get a lot of potential bitterness.

He continued: "Although Cowher won a Super Bowl and appeared in a handful of AFC Championships, Pittsburghers have long memories, even for winners. Jaromir Jagr still gets booed, and he won two Stanley Cups. Terry Bradshaw's always had an up-and-down relationship with the city. And Barry Bonds? Let's put it this way...to say his receptions have been icy since returning to the city would be a huge understatement. In the grand scheme of things, it's really silly and it's not a big deal. Bill Cowher sounding a siren will not alter the universe. But Pittsburgh takes their sports very seriously (perhaps too seriously), and I'm surprised that he wouldn't consider the poor reception this will surely generate in his hometown before agreeing to do this."

By Sounding Siren, Is Bill Cowher Turning His Back on Pittsburgh? originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Tue, 26 May 2009 16:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Ice Sheet: NHL May Adjust Finals Schedule

Eric McErlain — Mon, 25 May 2009 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Blackhawks, Hurricanes, Penguins, Red Wings, NHL Media Watch

Just a few hours after the league announced its tentative schedule for the Stanley Cup Finals on May 22, it's safe to say a number of hockey fans weren't exactly happy.

Why? Thanks to the demands of television, specifically the requirements of the NHL's broadcast television partner, NBC, the league was looking at a Finals start date of as late as June 5 unless both respective conference finals were decided by four-game sweeps. Once the Blackhawks managed to win Game 3 of the Western Conference finals, that possibility was closed, and the prospect of a lengthy layoff after a lackluster third round had become a certainty.

But as of late last night, word leaked to ESPN.com's E.J. Hradek that the league has been working behind the scenes to arrange an alternate schedule with NBC, one that would result in Games 1 and 2 of the Finals being played on the network back-to-back on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, if both series can be wrapped up by Wednesday night.

No, playing Games 1 and 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals on back-to-back nights probably isn't ideal for the players, but it sure beats the heck out of dropping a one-week break into the midst of the playoff season. In any case, it's pretty clear that a number of folks North of the border are a little tired of the pretzel-like contortions the league has had to make in order to appease its American television partner, including our favorite hockey curmudgeon, Tom Benjamin:

Doesn't the league understand that this all looks so bush? Whatever extra pittance they will get from NBC - cash and exposure - it pales in comparison to the damage done to the NHL brand. They basically give away the product and they do this to the Stanley Cup Finals. Why do they cheapen the game so?

Its an insult to the Stanley Cup, the players and the fans. For what?

Insult or not, it's simply the stark reality of the actual state of the hockey brand on television South of the border. In short, the league has made a simple calculation: would the complete disappearance of the Stanley Cup finals from broadcast television in the U.S. cause more damage to the league than adjusting the schedule to the benefit of the rights holder?

Clearly, they've decided the latter. And as for insults, well, the league has been insulted by American television executives repeatedly since the famous 1967 expansion, with the NHL and all traces of its existence disappearing from American broadcast television for as long as a a decade at a time. When you look at it that way, having to endure a long layoff between playoff rounds, ridiculous as it may seem, is something of a mild insult.

Every Monday morning The Ice Sheet will take a close look at everything that's happened in the NHL since Friday night at 5:00 PM -- or if need be, anything else the author wants to bleat about. To read them all, click here.

The Ice Sheet: NHL May Adjust Finals Schedule originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Mon, 25 May 2009 11:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's the Evgeni Malkin Show

Adam Gretz — Sat, 23 May 2009 22:30:00 EST

Filed under: Hurricanes, Penguins, NHL Videos

After giving up six goals in Game 2, Cam Ward did everything he possibly could to keep the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 3 and give them an opportunity to win. Then, with about 10 minutes to play in the third period, the flood gates opened and Pittsburgh took a commanding 3-0 lead in the series with a convincing 6-2 win.

As hard as it might be to believe after giving up five goals (Pittsburgh also scored an empty net goal), Ward actually played a really strong game, turning aside 34 shots, some in spectacular fashion. The Penguins were simply relentless in their offensive attack, while Evgeni Malkin led the way with his sixth consecutive multi-point game, setting a franchise record.

Penguins 6, Hurricanes 2: Recap | Box Score
Pittsburgh leads series, 3-0

Malkin finished the game with two goals and an assist, while the NHL's leading scorer during the regular season now has six goals and three assists in the first three games of the series. He's currently leading the NHL in scoring during the postseason with 28 points. To put that number into perspective, he had 22 points in 20 playoff games a year ago. After being overshadowed somewhat in the second round during the Crosby vs. Ovechkin hype, Malkin has taken center stage in the conference finals, and is simply on another planet right now compared to the other players on the ice.

After Matt Cullen gave Carolina a 1-0 lead just five minutes into the first period, Malkin quickly responded with a power play goal, capitalizing on a Carolina turnover, and then added his second marker late in the period just 30 seconds after Sidney Crosby gave Pittsburgh the lead. That 3-1 lead stood until the opening minutes of the third period, when Sergei Samsonov potted his fifth goal of the postseason, cutting the deficit to one. At that point, the Hurricanes had to be feeling confident, as Ward was making big save after big save, keeping Carolina in the game and giving it a chance to complete the comeback.

It all started to crumble when Ruslan Fedotenko buried a wrist shot behind Ward with just over eight minutes to play in regulation, finishing a feed from Malkin on the rush. In an act of desperation, Hurricanes head coach Paul Maurice pulled Ward in favor of the extra attacker with just under two minutes to play, which set the stage for one of the most bizarre empty net goals you'll ever see.

Yeah, that's Craig Adams scoring off the faceoff from the neutral zone, getting credit for the second playoff goal of his career. Just 40 seconds later Bill Guerin continued to pour it on for the Penguins with a power play goal, his sixth of the playoffs.

The series resumes in Carolina on Tuesday.

It's the Evgeni Malkin Show originally appeared on NHL FanHouse on Sat, 23 May 2009 22:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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