The San Jose Sharks fired head coach David Quinn after two campaigns at the helm, the team announ...

The San Jose Sharks fired head coach David Quinn after two campaigns at the helm, the team announced Wednesday. The Sharks finished in last place in the league this season with an abysmal 19-54-9 record."David is a good coach and an even better person," general manager Mike Grier <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/david-quinn-fired-by-san-jose">said</a> in a statement. "I would like to personally thank him for his hard work over these past two seasons. He and his staff did an admirable job under some difficult circumstances, and I sincerely appreciate how they handled the situation."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Grier added that there's no timeline to hire a new bench boss, per <a href="https://x.com/Sheng_Peng/status/1783221743676711300">San Jose Hockey Now's Sheng Peng</a>. The executive hired Quinn to replace Bob Boughner in July 2022.San Jose also parted ways with head athletic trainer Ray Tufts, who had been with the franchise since 1997-98.Quinn had one season left on his contract, according to <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1783203444536586387">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a>.His second year behind the Sharks' bench was marred by two separate double-digit losing streaks, including an 11-game slump to start the campaign. San Jose then dropped 12 straight games in the winter. Sandwiched between those two skids was an admirable 9-7-2 run.The Sharks suffered through another horrendous stretch after the All-Star break in which they won just one game in 19 outings.San Jose also became the first team to surrender 10 goals in back-to-back games since the 1965-66 Boston Bruins after being outscored 20-3 by the Vancouver Canucks and Pittsburgh Penguins across two contests in early November.The Sharks' .287 points percentage is the second-worst mark of the salary-cap era, beating just the 2019-20 Detroit Red Wings (.275). The last time a team posted fewer than 20 wins in a full 82-game season was in 2001-02 when the Atlanta Thrashers went 19-47-11-5.San Jose only had one 20-goal-scorer on its roster this season (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10863" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10863">Fabian Zetterlund</a>), and only one player eclipsed the 50-point mark (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2567" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2567">Mikael Granlund</a>)."The roster was what it was," Grier told reporters Wednesday, including <a href="https://x.com/NBCSSharks/status/1783226045380063595">NBC Sports</a>. "It wasn't a playoff team by any means. ... There were some things that I don't really want to get into too much that we would have liked to see (be) better. ... I just felt it was what we needed to do." The rebuilding Sharks went 41-98-25 under Quinn's leadership and traded away several star players during his tenure, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/607" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/607">Brent Burns</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4725" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4725">Timo Meier</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/864" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/864">Erik Karlsson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2991" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2991">Tomas Hertl</a>. The 57-year-old coached the New York Rangers for three seasons (2018-21) prior to being hired by San Jose. The Rangers made the qualifying round in the 2020 playoff bubble but were eliminated by the Carolina Hurricanes.The Sharks have missed the playoffs for five straight campaigns.With Quinn's dismissal, there have been 16 NHL head coaching changes since the end of last season, per <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1783214674030518474">LeBrun</a>.

OTTAWA, ON - JANUARY 13: San Jose Sharks Head Coach David Quinn during second period National Hockey League action between the San Jose Sharks and Ottawa Senators on January 13, 2024, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada.

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Sharks fire coach David Quinn after last-place finish

The Islanders will turn to goalie Ilya Sorokin for Thursday's Game 3 against the Carolina Hurrica...

The Islanders will turn to goalie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7301" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/7301">Ilya Sorokin</a> for Thursday's Game 3 against the Carolina Hurricanes with New York down 2-0 in the series, head coach Patrick Roy announced Wednesday, per the <a href="https://x.com/ethan_sears/status/1783160189459276177">New York Post's Ethan Sears</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1287" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1287">Semyon Varlamov</a> has started the first two games of the opening-round clash and has surrendered six goals on 63 shots, good for a .905 save percentage. The Hurricanes beat him twice in a span of nine seconds to seal the comeback victory in Game 2. The 35-year-old has saved 2.2 goals above expected at all strengths in the series so far, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20232024&amp;game=30140">Natural Stat Trick</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We knew we would have to use both goalies," Roy said, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/new-york-goalie-sorokin-to-start-in-game-3-against-carolina">NHL.com's Shawn P. Roarke</a>. "They are both sharp and (Varlamov) faced a lot of shots in the last game, so it would be good to have someone fresh (Thursday)."Sorokin posted a .909 save percentage and a 25-19-12 record during the regular season - a bit of a down year by his standards. He's appeared on the Vezina Trophy ballot in each of the past two campaigns and was the runner-up last season.The Islanders leaned on Varlamov down the stretch as they forced their way into the playoff picture. He posted a sterling 8-1-1 record, .930 save percentage, and 2.09 goals against average in his last 10 games of the regular season. He had won his last five starts heading into the postseason.Sorokin owns a career .925 save percentage, 2.70 goals against average, and 6-5 record across two playoff runs in 2021 and 2023. The Hurricanes, meanwhile, are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2900076" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2900076">expected</a> to be without defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4501" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4501">Brett Pesce</a> for the remainder of the series.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 13: Ilya Sorokin #30 of the New York Islanders skates during warmups prior to the game against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on April 13, 2024 in New York City.

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Islanders will turn to Sorokin for Game 3

Hurricanes defenseman Brett Pesce is expected to miss the rest of Carolina's first-round clash ag...

Hurricanes defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4501" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4501">Brett Pesce</a> is expected to miss the rest of Carolina's first-round clash against the New York Islanders, head coach Rod Brind'Amour confirmed Wednesday, per the <a href="https://x.com/ice_chip/status/1783168346332057856">Raleigh News &amp; Observer's Chip Alexander.</a>The blue-liner's status moving forward should Carolina advance to the second round is currently unknown, but he could be out of action for at least a few weeks with a noncontact, lower-body injury, a source told <a href="http://www.newsobserver.com/sports/nhl/carolina-hurricanes/article287970050.html">Alexander and Luke DeCock</a>. The Hurricanes hold a 2-0 series lead, with Game 3 scheduled for Thursday at 7:30 p.m. ET.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Pesce exited during the second period of the Hurricanes' 5-3 comeback victory in Game 2. He appeared to be in some discomfort after a seemingly routine play in Carolina's zone and ended up being ruled out for the remainder of the contest.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/rJuWc0Dvnr">https://t.co/rJuWc0Dvnr</a> <a href="https://t.co/2mozI0Txaf">pic.twitter.com/2mozI0Txaf</a>— Walt Ruff (@WaltRuff) <a href="https://twitter.com/WaltRuff/status/1782586646300418516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Brind'Amour <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2899117" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2899117">told</a> reporters after the game that Pesce's injury wasn't "looking good."Pesce has pitched in with one assist and a team-leading three blocks in these playoffs so far. The 29-year-old logged three goals and 13 points in 70 outings during the regular season while averaging just over 20 minutes of ice time per contest.Pesce once again spent the bulk of his time on a pairing with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4511" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4511">Brady Skjei</a> this season. The Hurricanes dictated 58.3% of the shot attempts and 53.2% of the expected goals with the duo on the ice at five-on-five, though they got outscored 40-37, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/pairings.php?fromseason=20232024&amp;thruseason=20232024&amp;stype=2&amp;sit=5v5&amp;score=all&amp;rate=n&amp;team=CAR&amp;loc=B&amp;toi=0&amp;gpfilt=none&amp;fd=&amp;td=&amp;tgp=410">Natural Stat Trick</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4015" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4015">Tony DeAngelo</a> was paired with Skjei during Wednesday's skate. The Hurricanes selected Pesce in the third round of the 2013 NHL Draft. He can become an unrestricted free agent this summer after playing out the final season of a six-year deal with a cap hit of $4.025 million.

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 14: Brett Pesce #22 of the Carolina Hurricanes looks on prior to a game against the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center on April 14, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Pesce likely to miss rest of 1st round with injury

Brad Marchand is deeply familiar with Boston's first-round opponent, but he doesn't think these a...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/100" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/100">Brad Marchand</a> is deeply familiar with Boston's first-round opponent, but he doesn't think these are the same Toronto Maple Leafs that his Bruins have dismantled in prior postseasons. "They're playing a really good, playoff-type game right now," he <a href="https://x.com/NHLBruins/status/1782818581706580228">said</a> Tuesday. "You knew they would. They're built different than in the past years. They're playing a lot more physical, very committed to forechecking, playing very tight defensively. So, you've got to give them credit. They're one of the top teams for a reason. And then when you add their offensive ability on top of that, they're a tough team to play right now."We're seeing it. ... It's a very tight playoff series. We knew it was going to be a battle. They've shown up. They're playing for keeps. It's a good challenge."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Marchand has clashed with the Leafs in the playoffs three other times in his career, first in 2013 and then in back-to-back years in 2018 and 2019. The Bruins won each of those series in seven games, and Marchand has totaled seven goals - including two game-winners - and 21 points in 21 contests over that span. The veteran winger has logged three assists through two games so far in this series. The Bruins took Game 1 in a 5-1 decision, but the Maple Leafs answered with a 3-2 victory on Monday. It's been a wildly physical affair so far, with the teams combining for exactly 200 hits. Boston holds a narrow edge with 103 hits to Toronto's 97. Though the series is tied, the Maple Leafs have tilted the ice in their favor through the first two contests. Toronto has dictated 58.3% of the shot attempts, 68.2% of the scoring chances, 57% of the expected goals, and 65.8% of the high-danger chances at five-on-five, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20232024&amp;game=30120">Natural Stat Trick</a>. Marchand said he doesn't think the Bruins have played up to their full capabilities just yet."We can be better for sure. ... We can definitely prove our game and put a better showing out there," he said. The series shifts to Toronto for Game 3 on Wednesday.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 22: Brad Marchand #63 of the Boston Bruins waits for a faceoff during the second period against the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game Two of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at TD Garden on April 22, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Marchand: Maple Leafs 'built different' than past years

Lindy Ruff has already spent a combined 25 seasons with the Buffalo Sabres as a player and head c...

Lindy Ruff has already spent a combined 25 seasons with the Buffalo Sabres as a player and head coach, but his latest stint with the franchise is personal."I think I understand ... how great this city is when you have a successful hockey club. ... It would mean a lot to have this group of players experience what I was able to experience as a player and as a coach," the bench boss <a href="https://x.com/BuffaloSabres/status/1782817427484492237">said</a> Tuesday during his introductory press conference. "This building shook in some of the playoff series." Ruff played 608 games with the Sabres from 1979-89, then returned to serve as head coach from 1997 to 2013. Buffalo made the playoffs eight times with him at the helm, including three trips to the conference finals and one to the Stanley Cup Final. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Sabres extended their playoff drought to 13 seasons after missing out on the postseason by seven points. The last time they played beyond the regular season was in 2011 when Ruff was nearing the end of his first tour behind Buffalo's bench.Ruff, whom the New Jersey Devils fired in early March, made it clear he didn't say yes right away when the Sabres called."I was questioning myself, 'Why would I do this?'" he said. "Then I came to a point, 'Why wouldn't I?' Because I'm a risk-taker. I think if there's no risk, there's no reward. I'm putting myself in that position." Sabres general manager Kevyn Adams spoke to double-digit candidates after firing Don Granato last Tuesday but soon landed on Ruff as the right person for the job."I truly believe that he's the person to take us to the next level," Adams said. "Our players are craving it, we're excited about it, and the hard work begins now."Ruff knows that shifting the Sabres' culture to a winning one won't be easy, but he believes he's a "much better coach" now than when he first left Buffalo."The only thing we can say is, when we hit camp, we're going to prove that we're going to get to the next level," Ruff said. "I want (the players) to love playing here," he added. "I want them to love playing for each other, and I want them to love being a Buffalo Sabre for Sabres fans that I think are some of the greatest in the league. How are we gonna get there? We're going to have to earn it from Day 1. ... We're gonna have to step on the ice when the season starts and earn the respect of everybody."

COLUMBUS, OHIO - JANUARY 19: Head coach Lindy Ruff of the New Jersey Devils watches gameplay during the second period of a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on January 19, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.

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Ruff ready to take Sabres to next level: 'I'm a risk-taker'

The Los Angeles Kings' 7-4 loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Monday night marked their 14th playoff ...

The Los Angeles Kings' 7-4 loss to the Edmonton Oilers on Monday night marked their 14th playoff meeting in the last three years, and veteran defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/560" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/560">Drew Doughty</a> thinks it was his team's "poorest" showing yet. "We're a much better team than that. We're a very good, solid two-way team," he <a href="https://youtu.be/nHrav-JJr9I?si=kXHQwUX9gGK5gSuV">said</a> postgame. "We don't usually give up that many chances. We've always had good goaltending here, but we also do a good job making it easier for the goalie in this organization. Tonight, we did not. ... (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1584" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1584">Cam Talbot</a>) made a ton of great saves, too, so you can't be putting any blame on him."It's all the guys in front of him."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Oilers outshot the Kings 45-37 while holding a 23-16 edge in high-danger chances at all strengths, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20232024&amp;game=30181">Natural Stat Trick</a>. Edmonton also converted on three of its four power-play chances, while the Kings failed to score on two opportunities.All of those stats were uncharacteristic of Los Angeles in the regular season. The Kings boasted the NHL's second-best penalty kill (84.6%) while conceding the third-fewest goals per game (2.56) and fourth-fewest shots per contest (28). They also allowed 10.57 high-danger chances per 60 minutes at all strengths, placing them among the stingiest teams in the league.Doughty said he was surprised by the amount of mistakes the Kings made against Edmonton. "That's not our motto; that's not the way we play. It's frustrating," he said."We're letting their top guys get way too much speed and just go through the neutral zone like it's nothing," Doughty explained. "It's tough on the D when those guys are flying. We gotta fix that, and we know that." The Kings won Game 1 against the Oilers in 2022 and 2023 but went on to lose both Game 2s and the series as a whole.Doughty is looking forward to the opportunity Wednesday's rematch will bring. "It's a seven-game series. You've got to (be the) first to four," he said. "We're down 1-0 but we can easily make it 1-1 next game. ... Just have a short memory and be ready to win the next one. That's it."

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 15: Drew Doughty #8 of the Los Angeles Kings gets ready for the play during the second period against the Minnesota Wild at Crypto.com Arena on April 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Doughty: Kings 'a much better team' than Game 1 performance

New Jersey Devils forward Timo Meier is set to undergo elective arthroscopic shoulder surgery Tue...

New Jersey Devils forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4725" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4725">Timo Meier</a> is set to undergo elective arthroscopic shoulder surgery Tuesday and is expected to make a full recovery for training camp, the team announced.Meier revealed Wednesday that he was dealing with a double MCL injury and an oblique ailment, but he didn't mention any issues with his shoulder.The 27-year-old put up 28 goals and 52 points in 69 games this season, but he was far more productive when Travis Green took over for Lindy Ruff behind the bench in March.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Head coach</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>P</th>
<th>P/GP</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Lindy Ruff</td>
<td>48</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>0.58</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Travis Green</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>1.14</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>Meier's 15 goals during Green's stint at the helm are tied with Florida Panthers stud <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3945" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3945">Sam Reinhart</a> for the fifth most in the league over that span, trailing only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7294" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/7294">Kirill Kaprizov</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2919" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2919">Filip Forsberg</a>.The Swiss winger is ready to build on the momentum from his strong second half."I know how big the offseasons are for me personally," he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/devils/video/meier-exit-interview-6351117849112">said</a>. "To play at my best, I gotta be in the best shape. If I want to play a consistent style of game that brings me success, I gotta put a lot of work in at the gym. ... That's the goal for me." The Devils acquired Meier from the San Jose Sharks prior to the 2023 trade deadline and signed him to an eight-year extension with an average annual value of $8.8 million in June. He carries the highest cap hit of all New Jersey's forwards.Meier has totaled 37 goals and 66 points in 90 contests as a Devil. He registered four points in 11 playoff games last spring.

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - APRIL 07: Timo Meier #28 of the New Jersey Devils skates during the first period of a game against the Nashville Predators at Prudential Center on April 07, 2024 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Devils' Meier to undergo shoulder surgery, expected back for camp

Nelly Korda's pursuit of a sixth straight victory will have to wait.  The world's No. 1 player ha...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///lpga/players/2910" href="https://www.thescore.com/lpga/players/2910">Nelly Korda</a>'s pursuit of a sixth straight victory will have to wait.The world's No. 1 player has withdrawn from this week's JM Eagle LA Championship due to fatigue."After the unbelievable week at the Chevron and grinding through the mental and physical challenges of four events in the past five weeks, I am definitely feeling exhausted," Korda <a href="https://www.lpga.com/news/2024/nelly-korda-statement-on-jm-eagle-la-championship-presented-by-plastpro-withdrawal">wrote</a> in a statement Monday. "With so much still to come throughout 2024, I feel I need to listen to my body and get some rest, so I can be ready for the remainder of the season."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Korda claimed the Chevron Championship on Sunday to match an LPGA record with her fifth straight victory. Nancy Lopez (1978) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/6432" href="https://www.thescore.com/pga/players/6432">Annika Sorenstam</a> (2004-05) are the only others to accomplish the feat.The 25-year-old's unbelievable run began in January when she won the LPGA Drive On Championship. Korda followed that up with a pair of victories in March at the Fir Hills Seri Pak Championship and Ford Championship.Before winning the first major of the season, Korda beat <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///lpga/players/3050" href="https://www.thescore.com/lpga/players/3050">Leona Maguire</a> at the T-Mobile Match Play final. Korda has 13 career LPGA victories under her belt.

THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS - APRIL 21: Nelly Korda of the United States plays her shot from the 16th tee during the final round of The Chevron Championship at The Club at Carlton Woods on April 21, 2024 in The Woodlands, Texas.

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Nelly Korda withdraws from JM Eagle LA Championship due to fatigue

The Winnipeg Jets' series-opening 7-6 victory against the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday wasn't a m...

The Winnipeg Jets' series-opening 7-6 victory against the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday wasn't a masterclass in goaltending, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3997" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3997">Connor Hellebuyck</a> isn't worried about his performance one bit."This time of year, who cares about stats, really?" he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/jets/video/toffoli-hellebuyck-24-04-22-6351421996112">said</a> Monday. "Stats are just gonna be something people look at, pick apart, and talk about. "At the end of the day, it's 'Did you win, or did you not win?' ... 16 wins (gets you) the Stanley Cup and that's my goal, so who really cares about everything else that goes with it?" <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The likely Vezina Trophy winner surrendered six goals - including three at five-on-five - on 46 shots.The Avalanche's underlying numbers during the contest were dominant. Colorado dictated 65.2% of the shot attempts and 68.2% of the expected goals while holding a 17-9 edge in high-danger chances at all strengths, per <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/game.php?season=20232024&amp;game=30160">Natural Stat Trick</a>."I felt like I had a really good game," Hellebuyck said. "When the results end up like that, I instantly know - I've been in this league long enough - it's gonna be, I gotta stop one more than the other guy." Jets coach Rick Bowness didn't blame Hellebuyck for any of the goals against."Some of them had seeing eyes, some of them were bouncing all over the place, some of them were just dead giveaways on our part," the bench boss said Sunday, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/colorado-avalanche-winnipeg-jets-game-1-recap-april-21">NHL.com's Darrin Bauming</a>.He added, "It could have been worse. Seriously. ... And Connor had to play better and he made a lot of big saves at the right time, which he always does."At the other end of the ice, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6533" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/6533">Alexandar Georgiev</a> fared much worse.The Avalanche netminder conceded seven goals on just 23 shots for an abysmal .696 save percentage. He allowed 5.04 goals above expected in all situations.Unlike Bowness, Colorado head coach Jared Bednar wasn't so quick to defend his goaltender's performance."(Georgiev's game) probably needed to be better, right?" he said. "I thought we played well, we created some chances. He made some good saves, but we're (going to) need like a couple more saves than that probably to win, you know? "But it is what it is. We'll regroup. We made some mistakes in front of him that we'll have to clean up and try to get the job done. It's a team game."Georgiev led all goalies with 38 wins in the regular season but owned an .897 save percentage, and his minus-12.45 goals saved above average was the seventh-worst mark in the league, per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/stats/goalie_standard/?_inputs_&amp;std_gl_table=%22On-Ice%22&amp;std_gl_team=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_str=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_adj=%22Score%20%26%20Venue%22&amp;std_gl_range=%22Seasons%22&amp;std_gl_span=%22Regular%22&amp;std_gl_group=%22Team%2C%20Season%22&amp;std_gl_age1=%2217%22&amp;std_gl_age2=%2250%22&amp;std_gl_dft_yr=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_status=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_info=%22No%22&amp;std_gl_players=null&amp;std_gl_fa=%2250%22">Evolving-Hockey</a>.The 28-year-old is focused on keeping his spirits high following Sunday's stinker. "They scored some really good goals, a couple lucky ones," Georgiev said, according to the <a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2024/04/21/avalanche-lose-jets-game-1-playoffs/">Denver Post's Corey Masisak</a>. "You have to stay positive and try to find out what happened today and move forward. It's only 1-0 in the series, so I'm looking forward to the next game."Game 2 is set for Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. ET.

WINNIPEG, CANADA - APRIL 21: Connor Hellebuyck #37 of Winnipeg Jets looks on during action against the Colorado Avalanche in Game One of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Canada Life Centre on April 21, 2024, in Winnipeg, Canada.

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Hellebuyck shrugs off Game 1 goal fest: 'Who cares about stats' in playoffs?

Vegas Golden Knights captain Mark Stone returned to the lineup on Monday for Game 1 of his club's...

Vegas Golden Knights captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1741" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1741">Mark Stone</a> returned to the lineup on Monday for Game 1 of his club's opening round against the Dallas Stars.Stone was sidelined for the last 26 games of the regular season after sustaining a lacerated spleen on Feb. 20 against the Nashville Predators. Vegas went 13-11-2 in his absence and ended the campaign in the second wild-card spot of the Western Conference.He racked up 16 goals and 53 points in 56 games prior to his absence.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Golden Knights also welcomed back for defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1098" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1098">Alex Pietrangelo</a> and forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3194" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3194">William Carrier</a>.Pietrangelo missed the past seven games and 13 of the last 15 contests. He was initially sidelined by an illness, but he ended up needing to get his appendix removed.Carrier, meanwhile, last played on March 25 and has since been out with an upper-body injury. Stone was cleared for contact and was a full participant in practice on Saturday.Golden Knights head coach Bruce Cassidy said before the game he doesn't expect to limit Stone's minutes, though he'll keep an eye on him and make adjustments if necessary, per <a href="https://x.com/JesseGranger_/status/1782466573954933214">The Athletic's Jesse Granger</a>.Stone was in a similar position last year. He sat out the second half of the regular season with a back injury but was able to return for the first game of the postseason.The veteran forward didn't seem to be hampered by his ailment, recording 11 goals and 24 points in 22 games to help the Golden Knights lift the Stanley Cup for the first time in franchise history."I think last year I had more of a distinct timeline," Stone said Monday. "This year, I wasn't super confident that I'd be standing here today ready to go. The timeline was a lot more - not delicate, but I guess longer. I had some people tell me it was eight weeks, some people tell me it was six months. It was just a wait-and-see, see how the scans go."Stone and his $9.5-million cap hit were on long-term injured reserve the past two deadlines, giving general manager Kelly McCrimmon more room to bolster his squad.In 2023, the Golden Knights added forwards <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3967">Ivan Barbashev</a> and <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5506">Teddy Blueger</a>, as well as goaltender <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/587">Jonathan Quick</a>. This season, Vegas brought in winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3248" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3248">Anthony Mantha</a>, forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2991" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2991">Tomas Hertl</a>, and rearguard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4559" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4559">Noah Hanifin</a>.McCrimmon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2866059" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2866059">said</a> in March that it was "ridiculous to suggest" the Golden Knights are exploiting the league's LTIR system.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 12: Mark Stone #61 of the Vegas Golden Knights celebrates after a goal during the third period against the Minnesota Wild at T-Mobile Arena on February 12, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Knights' Stone returns for Game 1 vs. Stars

The Vancouver Canucks did their part on the ice to secure their first playoff win at Rogers Arena...

The Vancouver Canucks did their part on the ice to secure their first playoff win at Rogers Arena in nine years, but the players gave some credit to the fans in attendance."The building was crazy," forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10054" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10054">Dakota Joshua</a> <a href="https://www.nhl.com/canucks/video/postgame-joshua-and-hughes-6351397811112">said</a> after his team's 4-2 Game 1 victory over the Nashville Predators. "You think you know what to expect until you get out there, and you don't. The fans were behind us all night, and it was nice to pull through for them." The Canucks headed into the third period down 2-1. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9957" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/9957">Pius Suter</a> tipped in captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a>' shot for the equalizer, and Joshua scored the game-winning goal just 12 seconds later for the fastest two playoff goals in franchise history. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Joshua then iced the contest with an empty-netter for the first two postseason goals of his career. Prior to Sunday's thrilling win, the 27-year-old only had one other game of playoff experience under his belt."A special moment. I'll never forget it," he said of his heroics. "It makes you want to keep doing it." Hughes took in some postseason action last spring while supporting his brothers, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8594" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/8594">Jack</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10579" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10579">Luke</a>, on the New Jersey Devils during their run to the second round. He may be a little biased, but the star defenseman said there was no comparison to the atmosphere at Rogers Arena. "I couldn't really believe how loud (our) fans were," Hughes said. "I've seen some playoff games ... but it wasn't anything like what we just witnessed. ... To be able to come out here and see the support and see how much it means to the city and the people here is pretty special." The Canucks were welcomed to the ice by a standing ovation from the thousands of fans waving rally towels. <figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Soak it all in, Canucks fans. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StanleyCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StanleyCup</a> Playoffs are back in Vancouver. <a href="https://t.co/rGhoPQ8NLD">pic.twitter.com/rGhoPQ8NLD</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1782229938717806884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Vancouver last made the playoffs in 2020, but those games took place in Edmonton with no fans in attendance due to the pandemic.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a> is one of six current Canucks who were on that roster. Prior to Sunday's Game 1, the veteran forward was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2897923" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2897923">itching</a> to begin the playoffs. He clearly wasn't disappointed by the atmosphere."When we came out on the ice today, it was probably one of the more special things I've been a part of, other than the birth of my children and my wedding," Miller <a href="https://www.nhl.com/canucks/video/postgame-miller-vs-predators-6351399572112">said</a>. "It's hard not to get choked up when you see that, that literally is everything. ... If you can't get up for that, then you've got something wrong with you. That was amazing."Now, the Canucks have to reset and turn their attention to Game 2 on Tuesday. "We weren't perfect by any means tonight," Miller said. "I think we can be even better, which is great. ... We need to understand that there's still another gear and come off the high of being back in that playoff environment."

VANCOUVER, CANADA - APRIL 21: Dakota Joshua #81 of the Vancouver Canucks celebrates his goal with teammates during the third period of Game One of the First Round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Nashville Predators at Rogers Arena on April 21, 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Canucks in awe of fans in Game 1 win: 'The building was crazy'

He had to wait until Monday morning, but Scottie Scheffler picked up his fourth win in his last f...

He had to wait until Monday morning, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1540" href="https://www.thescore.com/pga/players/1540">Scottie Scheffler</a> picked up his fourth win in his last five starts with a victory at the RBC Heritage.The world's top-ranked golfer played out his last three holes after Sunday's action was postponed due to inclement weather and finished with a three-stroke victory over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/4240" href="https://www.thescore.com/pga/players/4240">Sahith Theegala</a>.<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Place</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Total to par</th>
<th>Round 4 score</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Scottie Scheffler</td>
<td>-19</td>
<td>68</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Sahith Theegala</td>
<td>-16</td>
<td>68</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-3</td>
<td>Wyndham Clark</td>
<td>-15</td>
<td>65</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-3</td>
<td>Patrick Cantlay</td>
<td>-15</td>
<td>68</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Justin Thomas</td>
<td>-14</td>
<td>65</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Patrick Rodgers</td>
<td>-14</td>
<td>70</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>J.T. Poston</td>
<td>-14</td>
<td>69</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T-5</td>
<td>Sepp Straka</td>
<td>-14</td>
<td>72</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>"I didn't show up here just to have some sort of ceremony and have people tell me congratulations," Scheffler said, per <a href="https://apnews.com/article/scheffler-rbc-heritage-theegala-37ac736238b6745686c1501f15f5018a">The Associated Press</a>. "I came here with a purpose."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Scheffler won the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players Championship in March. He finished one stroke behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/2091" href="https://www.thescore.com/pga/players/2091">Stephan Jaeger</a> at the Houston Open but rebounded with a victory at the Masters in his next appearance.The 27-year-old became the first player since Bernhard Langer in 1985 to win one week after claiming the green jacket at the Masters. He's also the first golfer to win a tournament one week after clinching a major since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1637" href="https://www.thescore.com/pga/players/1637">Tiger Woods</a> in 2006. Scheffler now has 10 wins under his belt on the PGA TOUR, with all of his victories coming in the past 26 months."It does not get boring," he said. "I think hitting a really well-struck golf shot close to the pin is like an addicting feeling."He set up his most recent triumph at the RBC Heritage with a dominant third round in which he fired a dazzling 8-under 63.Meanwhile, on the women's circuit, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///lpga/players/2910" href="https://www.thescore.com/lpga/players/2910">Nelly Korda</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2898185" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2898185">won</a> the Chevron Championship on Sunday to match an LPGA record with her fifth straight victory.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SOUTH CAROLINA - APRIL 22: Scottie Scheffler of the United States celebrates with the trophy and the tartan jacket after winning during the continuation of the final round of the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links on April 22, 2024 in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

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Scheffler claims RBC Heritage for 4th win in last 5 starts

J.T. Miller and the Vancouver Canucks haven't appeared in a postseason game for almost four years...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2170" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/2170">J.T. Miller</a> and the Vancouver Canucks haven't appeared in a postseason game for almost four years, and the veteran forward couldn't be more excited to end that drought."I just love the playoffs," he told <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/i-burn-for-it-canucks-miller-savours-shot-to-step-up-in-playoffs/">Sportsnet's Iain MacIntyre</a>. "And the older I get, the more I love them because your mindset changes. And I guarantee you it will change for every single guy in here. Once you get a taste of it one time - the city, the crowd, the away crowds ... I burn for it. It's the greatest feeling ever.""Not getting to the playoffs has driven a lot of my frustration," he added. "I don't think anybody on this team has played a playoff game here in this building."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Canucks will open their first-round series against the Nashville Predators on Sunday night in Vancouver. Since the 2020 playoffs took place in an Edmonton bubble for the Western Conference teams, Rogers Arena hasn't hosted a postseason contest since 2015, when the Canucks lost to the Calgary Flames in the first round. Only two players from that roster - New York Islanders forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3009" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3009">Bo Horvat</a> and Dallas Stars defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1685" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1685">Chris Tanev</a> - still play in the NHL. Miller has 78 playoff games under his belt after being a part of four runs with the New York Rangers and two with the Tampa Bay Lightning, making him the second-most experienced postseason performer on the Canucks behind defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1555" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1555">Ian Cole</a>.Vancouver was one of the league's biggest surprises this season, ascending to the top of the Pacific Division after finishing 12 points outside the playoff picture in 2022-23. Miller was key to the Canucks' success, pacing the team with a career-high 103 points (37 goals, 66 assists) in 81 contests.Though the 31-year-old isn't about to limit Vancouver's window for success, he's aware these chances to win the Stanley Cup aren't guaranteed. "We can do something special here, and we have to realize that," Miller said. "For the most part, teams ... get their crack for only a couple years. ... But we've got a chance to win this year."We have a special team. We have our expectations, and we're still building." The Canucks were eliminated in the second round by the Vegas Golden Knights in 2020. In addition to Miller, five other players on the current team were part of that run: <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/152">Tyler Myers</a>, <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/6354">Brock Boeser</a>, <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a>, <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/7699">Elias Pettersson</a>, and <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5557">Thatcher Demko</a>. Pettersson and Miller tied for the team lead with 18 points in 17 games.

VANCOUVER, CANADA - APRIL 10: J.T. Miller #9 of the Vancouver Canucks lines up for a face off during their NHL game against the Arizona Coyotes at Rogers Arena on April 10, 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Canucks' Miller stoked for playoffs: 'Greatest feeling ever'

Following a strong debut season that'll likely earn him the Calder Trophy as the league's top roo...

Following a strong debut season that'll likely earn him the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie, Chicago Blackhawks phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> is already thinking about where he can improve for Year 2."Obviously, I want to get faster," he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/blackhawks/video/bedard-on-rookie-season-6351330758112">told</a> reporters Saturday. "In the gym, more explosive probably, a little stronger for puck battles and netfront, little things like that. ... I'm gonna work on trying to create more offense. ... That creativity of playing the game and having fun."Bedard already showed off plenty of offensive prowess with his <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Matthews</a>-inspired shot, clever passes, and a Michigan goal scored in December.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 2023 first overall pick amassed 22 goals and 61 points in 68 outings to secure the best season by a Blackhawks rookie since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4530" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4530">Artemi Panarin</a> in 2015-16, though the Russian wasn't a teenager at the time like Bedard. The 18-year-old missed 14 games with a fractured jaw after taking a hit from New Jersey Devils defenseman <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1660">Brendan Smith</a>, but Bedard made it clear that he's not going to "shy away from trying to make something happen.""I got blown up a decent amount this year. I'm gonna get hit a lot, it's hockey, it's a contact sport, so I'm not afraid of that," Bedard added.He was a tough critic of his own game prior to the Blackhawks' last game of the season on Thursday."Personally, I think I was OK a lot," he <a href="https://www.nhl.com/blackhawks/video/bedard-on-season-improvements-6351188065112">said</a>. "Maybe not as good as I hoped.""I hope I'm better (next season), of course," he added. "I'll do everything I can throughout the summer to try to make that happen, but actions speak a lot louder than words." Bedard pointed to his defensive play and faceoffs as other areas of improvement. He was a team-worst minus-44 on the season and won just 38.9% of his draws."An improved Connor Bedard is a scary thought," Blackhawks veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/860" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/860">Nick Foligno</a> said Friday, per the <a href="https://x.com/BenPopeCST/status/1781723227619811657">Chicago Sun-Times' Ben Pope</a>. The Blackhawks ranked 31st in the league this season with a 23-53-6 record. Though it was a frustrating year, it left Bedard feeling more appreciative of Chicago's supporters. "I couldn't be more grateful for everything this year that the fans did. ... (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/267" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/267">Patrick</a>) <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/267" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/267">Kane</a> and (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/278" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/278">Jonathan</a>) <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/278" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/278">Toews</a> were here for a long time, and with them not being here this year and (the fans) embracing us the way they did, it was incredible," Bedard said.He added, "We know it was a tough year, but the support we got throughout never wavered. ... It exceeded my expectations by a long way, and my expectations were pretty high."

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 18: Chicago Blackhawks center Connor Bedard (98) during an NHL hockey game against the Los Angeles Kings on April 18, 2024 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, CA.

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Bedard aiming to 'create more offense' in sophomore season

The Toronto Maple Leafs were without star winger William Nylander for their 5-1 defeat to the Bos...

The Toronto Maple Leafs were without star winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4180" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4180">William Nylander</a> for their 5-1 defeat to the Boston Bruins in Game 1 of their first-round series Saturday night.The 27-year-old experienced some discomfort when he woke up Thursday, one day after the Leafs' final regular-season game, reports <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/reporterchris/status/1781715110450303069">TSN's Chris Johnston</a>.Nylander didn't attend Friday's practice or Saturday's optional morning skate.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He skated in all 82 games for Toronto this campaign, registering 40 goals and a career-high 98 points. He represented the Maple Leafs at the 2024 All-Star Game in February for the first time in his career.This was just the second time Nylander has missed a game because of an injury in his nine-year NHL career. He sat out of a clash against the Washington Capitals in November 2016 with an upper-body ailment.Nylander has posted 40 points (17 goals, 23 assists) in 50 playoff games since his debut in 2015-16, good for the third most on the team behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a>. He put up two goals and seven points in 14 games during two previous playoff series against the Bruins in 2018 and 2019.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13037" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/13037">Bobby McMann</a> also sat out Game 1 for the Maple Leafs on Saturday. He missed the final two contests in the regular season with what the club called a lower-body injury.

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 4: William Nylander #88 of the Toronto Maple Leafs looks on against the Boston Bruins during the first period at Scotiabank Arena on March 4, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Maple Leafs' Nylander misses Game 1 loss to Bruins

Playoff time is upon us, which means an overwhelming wave of anxiety is beginning to settle deep ...

Playoff time is upon us, which means an overwhelming wave of anxiety is beginning to settle deep within the hearts, minds, and stomachs of hockey fans across the world. Sixteen teams are vying to make that tension worth it by lifting the Stanley Cup by the end of the spring. However, they'll need to survive the opening round first to get there.Here, we rank the eight series, focusing on watchability and vibes to decide the order. Let's get into it.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>1. Boston Bruins-Toronto Maple Leafs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625134/cropped_GettyImages-1771798767.jpg?ts=1713365652" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625134/w220xh124_GettyImages-1771798767.jpg?ts=1713365652 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625134/w320xh180_GettyImages-1771798767.jpg?ts=1713365652 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625134/w640xh360_GettyImages-1771798767.jpg?ts=1713365652 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625134/w768xh432_GettyImages-1771798767.jpg?ts=1713365652 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625134/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1771798767.jpg?ts=1713365652 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Maddie Meyer / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Come on, is there another option for the top spot? We think not. This is what dreams are made of - or nightmares, if you root for the team in blue. The Atlantic Division rivals have battled in the opening round three times since 2013. Each meeting has stretched to seven contests, with Boston coming out on top every time.Why this rematch is exciting for Leafs fans: Hey, maybe they'll finally slay the dragon - the big, bad Bruins who have haunted them since Patrice Bergeron's Game 7 overtime winner 11 years ago (it was 4-1!). The most recent postseason clash between Toronto and Boston came in 2019, and only five players from that Maple Leafs team are still on the roster: Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, John Tavares, William Nylander, and Morgan Rielly. Things are totally different now!Why this rematch is exciting for Bruins fans: There's no better way for Boston to recover from last year's first-round upset than drawing a matchup against the team it has been psychologically torturing for years.Why this rematch is exciting for everyone else: If Toronto falls flat on its face and returns to first-round futility, you'll get to point and laugh at Leafs fans while crafting some dastardly burns on X, if that's your thing.We see this as an absolute win. The content machine stays fed regardless of the result.<h3>2. Florida Panthers-Tampa Bay Lightning</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625138/cropped_GettyImages-1435636857.jpg?ts=1713365820" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625138/w220xh124_GettyImages-1435636857.jpg?ts=1713365820 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625138/w320xh180_GettyImages-1435636857.jpg?ts=1713365820 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625138/w640xh360_GettyImages-1435636857.jpg?ts=1713365820 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625138/w768xh432_GettyImages-1435636857.jpg?ts=1713365820 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625138/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1435636857.jpg?ts=1713365820 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Joel Auerbach / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rivalries - both historical and geographic - went a long way in determining our rankings. The last time the Battle of Florida took place in the playoffs, the Lightning spoiled the Panthers' Presidents' Trophy campaign with a second-round sweep, and there was no shortage of bad blood. While the animosity will likely remain the same, there's a new dynamic between the two teams now.In 2022, the Bolts were the class of the league, fresh off back-to-back Stanley Cups and on their way to another finals appearance. The Panthers, then coached by Andrew Brunette, were an offensive force without an in-your-face mentality. Paul Maurice has since transformed the club into a defensive juggernaut, and Matthew Tkachuk's arrival helped make the Cats mean. Tampa Bay isn't nearly as dangerous at five-on-five anymore, but its special teams can swing any game.On top of these two clubs generally detesting each other, the talent between both squads makes for appointment TV. Tkachuk, Aleksander Barkov, Sam Reinhart, and Sergei Bobrovsky squaring off against Nikita Kucherov, Steven Stamkos, Brayden Point, and Andrei Vasilevskiy is just about as good as it gets this spring.<h3>3. Winnipeg Jets-Colorado Avalanche</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625143/cropped_GettyImages-1839137436.jpg?ts=1713366196" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625143/w220xh124_GettyImages-1839137436.jpg?ts=1713366196 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625143/w320xh180_GettyImages-1839137436.jpg?ts=1713366196 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625143/w640xh360_GettyImages-1839137436.jpg?ts=1713366196 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625143/w768xh432_GettyImages-1839137436.jpg?ts=1713366196 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625143/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1839137436.jpg?ts=1713366196 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Matthew Stockman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Jets and Avalanche don't have any sort of longstanding rivalry (yet). But this series features two of the league's best teams and matches up an unstoppable force (Nathan MacKinnon) against an immovable object (Connor Hellebuyck) that'll likely determine which squad advances through what should be a nail-biter.Colorado led the league in goals this season, while Winnipeg allowed the fewest. This matchup is essentially a coin flip and should highly entertain fans. Although Hellebuyck's brilliance forms the Jets' identity, Winnipeg boasts four deep lines and should benefit from securing home ice, where the club went 27-11-3 this season. Conversely, Colorado was 19-16-6 away from Denver in 2023-24.The Avalanche are the far more dangerous team on paper and ice, but goaltender Alexandar Georgiev is their clear X-factor. Going up against the likely Vezina Trophy winner is a daunting task, and Georgiev will need to improve on his .897 save percentage - particularly if he doesn't get the run support he's used to.This series exemplifies why most hockey fans are fed up with the league's playoff format. Pitting the conference's second- and fourth-best teams in the first round can be seen as unfair, especially when the West's fifth- and seventh-place squads face off in another series. It makes little sense, but the NHL has no intention of changing how things work. We might as well enjoy the elite matchups that come out of the flawed format, even if they're earlier than they should be.<h3>4. Dallas Stars-Vegas Golden Knights</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625393/cropped_GettyImages-1743066740.jpg?ts=1713528521" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625393/w220xh124_GettyImages-1743066740.jpg?ts=1713528521 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625393/w320xh180_GettyImages-1743066740.jpg?ts=1713528521 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625393/w640xh360_GettyImages-1743066740.jpg?ts=1713528521 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625393/w768xh432_GettyImages-1743066740.jpg?ts=1713528521 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625393/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1743066740.jpg?ts=1713528521 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ethan Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The Stars and Golden Knights are set to lock horns again in a rematch of last year's Western Conference Final. This feels like an unlikely 1-seed versus 8-seed matchup, but the defending champs lost a step in the regular season. That said, Dallas can't be thrilled about its draw, as Vegas is rife with championship pedigree and at full strength again with captain Mark Stone in the picture. It should surprise no one if the Golden Knights get hot as soon as the real season begins.The Stars are among the deepest teams in the NHL, icing a roster with a perfect blend of youth and experience. Dallas was also a top-10 squad in expected goals for and against per 60 minutes during the regular season, and it feels more equipped than ever to go on a championship run. But the Stars must knock off the titleholders if they want to become the new Western Conference powerhouse.<h3>5. Vancouver Canucks-Nashville Predators</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625142/cropped_GettyImages-1756857283.jpg?ts=1713366130" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625142/w220xh124_GettyImages-1756857283.jpg?ts=1713366130 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625142/w320xh180_GettyImages-1756857283.jpg?ts=1713366130 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625142/w640xh360_GettyImages-1756857283.jpg?ts=1713366130 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625142/w768xh432_GettyImages-1756857283.jpg?ts=1713366130 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625142/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1756857283.jpg?ts=1713366130 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jeff Vinnick / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>This series might be the biggest mystery box of the first round. We may look back in two weeks (or less) thinking this matchup was the most exciting one. Many of the questions surround the Canucks since no one seems to agree if they're legitimate contenders or not. The answer to that question through the season's first few months was yes, but their 17-12-4 record since the All-Star break puts them in the middle of the pack. Vancouver still finished atop the Pacific Division but had battled for first in the league earlier in the winter.The Predators rank third in the NHL in points percentage (.726) with a 21-7-3 record since early February. While Roman Josi and Filip Forsberg were machines during that run, the Canucks have more star power at their disposal with J.T. Miller, Brock Boeser, Elias Pettersson, and Quinn Hughes.Nashville is the more battle-tested team in playoff experience in recent years, but will that matter if a now-healthy Thatcher Demko continues playing at a Vezina-caliber level for Vancouver? Discounting Juuse Saros wouldn't be wise, either. Though he hasn't dominated consistently, he was strong down the stretch to help the Preds get here.Is it too late for Predators GM Barry Trotz to buy tickets to The Sphere in Las Vegas again and promptly cancel the trip? Hey, it resulted in a 16-0-2 run for Nashville the last time he did it.<h3>6. Edmonton Oilers-Los Angeles Kings</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625395/cropped_GettyImages-2113300466.jpg?ts=1713528676" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625395/w220xh124_GettyImages-2113300466.jpg?ts=1713528676 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625395/w320xh180_GettyImages-2113300466.jpg?ts=1713528676 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625395/w640xh360_GettyImages-2113300466.jpg?ts=1713528676 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625395/w768xh432_GettyImages-2113300466.jpg?ts=1713528676 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625395/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2113300466.jpg?ts=1713528676 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Andy Devlin / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>We'd be justified in moving this one up a few spots due to the mere presence of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl and the fact that they go Super Saiyan mode in the playoffs, but we've seen this movie before.Like, is there anything else on? This is the third straight spring that Edmonton and Los Angeles have met in the opening round. The Oilers won the first two meetings, and beating the Kings to start the playoffs could become a tradition for Edmonton by this point. Unless L.A. has somehow found a way to slow down the best player in the league and his homies, we'd put our money on the Oilers winning again.Edmonton should also be highly motivated. In eight seasons of McDavid doing McDavid things, the Oilers have made the conference finals only once. Last spring, the club lost to the eventual Stanley Cup champs in the second round, and Draisaitl <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1657977239294853123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1657977239294853123%7Ctwgr%5E8fc54d487d1ce08605b01f3a850a570e63f4cfb1%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fcmsadmin.thescore.com%2Fadmin%2Fnewsroom%2F%2Farticles%2F2648282">dubbed</a> Edmonton's year as a "failure or a wasted season, almost" as a result. The club's mantra heading into 2023-24 was essentially "Cup or bust," and we wouldn't want to get in front of that train.What does L.A.'s offseason look like if it loses to the same team again? Does GM Rob Blake spend his entire summer crafting the squad into bloodthirsty, Oilers-killing machines? Well, the Kings won't have to worry about that if they finally get over their Edmonton-shaped hump.<h3>7. New York Rangers-Washington Capitals</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625139/cropped_GettyImages-1836059661.jpg?ts=1713365939" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625139/w220xh124_GettyImages-1836059661.jpg?ts=1713365939 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625139/w320xh180_GettyImages-1836059661.jpg?ts=1713365939 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625139/w640xh360_GettyImages-1836059661.jpg?ts=1713365939 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625139/w768xh432_GettyImages-1836059661.jpg?ts=1713365939 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625139/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1836059661.jpg?ts=1713365939 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> John McCreary / National Hockey League / Getty</figcaption></figure>This one has some potential to get spicy, but our hopes aren't high. When has the second wild-card team in the Eastern Conference ever upset the Presidents' Trophy winners in a first-round meeting?Oh, right. Just last year, actually. Still, it's a tough thing to do, and we aren't confident in the Capitals' ability to pull it off, so we've put this series in the basement. For one, Washington rocked a minus-37 goal differential in the regular season - the worst mark by a playoff team since 1990-91. Led by overlooked Hart Trophy candidate Artemi Panarin, the Rangers ranked seventh in the league with 3.39 goals per game.That isn't the most favorable matchup for the underdogs. And even if goalie Charlie Lindgren can stave off New York's attack, he'll still have to outduel Igor Shesterkin, who can enter Vezina Trophy mode at any moment.And Shesterkin might not have the toughest workload. The Capitals' 2.63 goals per game was the fifth lowest in the NHL this season. Washington also ranked 30th in shots per game (26.5).We can never discount the Alex Ovechkin factor, but the 38-year-old sniper might not be able to will his team through this one.<h3>8. Carolina Hurricanes-New York Islanders</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625141/cropped_GettyImages-1246575696.jpg?ts=1713366001" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625141/w220xh124_GettyImages-1246575696.jpg?ts=1713366001 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625141/w320xh180_GettyImages-1246575696.jpg?ts=1713366001 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625141/w640xh360_GettyImages-1246575696.jpg?ts=1713366001 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625141/w768xh432_GettyImages-1246575696.jpg?ts=1713366001 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625141/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1246575696.jpg?ts=1713366001 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Unless you're a fan of squads that roster a Sebastian Aho, it's tough to find much excitement in the second straight running of Hurricanes-Islanders in Round 1. Last year's series didn't provide many fireworks, and this one is heavily lopsided in Carolina's favor again.The Canes have been white-hot since the trade deadline and appear more motivated than ever to finally get over the hump and reach the Stanley Cup Final. Carolina is far better than the Isles at five-on-five and special teams, and it has more talent on forward and defense. There's a reason the Hurricanes are the odds-on favorite to win it all.The Islanders have been a considerably better team under head coach Patrick Roy - who might be this series' best hope at quality entertainment - but this is a huge mismatch in his first playoff series at the helm on Long Island. It'll be on Roy to motivate his troops to make this a close battle and prove our rankings wrong.

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Ranking the 8 opening-round series of the NHL playoffs

After hearing his name in several trade rumors this season, Calgary Flames goaltender Jacob Marks...

After hearing his name in several trade rumors this season, Calgary Flames goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1677" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1677">Jacob Markstrom</a> said he isn't sure what his future holds."I don't know," he <a href="https://x.com/NHLFlames/status/1781369494411092074">told</a> reporters Friday. "What I do know, and what I tell you guys every day, is I love winning hockey games. ... And I know everyone in that locker room wants to win hockey games, too. That's pretty much where my head is at right now." The Flames had a fire sale this campaign, parting ways with pending free agents <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3174" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3174">Nikita Zadorov</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3001" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3001">Elias Lindholm</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1685" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1685">Chris Tanev</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4559" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4559">Noah Hanifin</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Though Markstrom has two seasons left on his deal with a cap hit of $6 million and a no-move clause, the New Jersey Devils reportedly wanted to acquire the veteran ahead of the deadline and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2867340" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2867340">appear</a> interested in taking another run at him in the offseason.Flames general manager Craig Conroy was noncommittal when asked if he envisions Markstrom being on the team in 2024-25, saying "time will tell with everything we're doing." Calgary is currently carrying three goalies - Markstrom, the injured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3929" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/3929">Dan Vladar</a>, and youngster <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9990" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/9990">Dustin Wolf</a> - but Conroy said it's "tough to say" if that will still be the case come September.In early March, Markstrom said his situation "could've been handled a lot different from up top." The Swede revealed Friday that he addressed his team the morning after making those comments."I wanted them to know everything that's going on and how I feel and what I was pointing at," he explained. "I love every single player on the team and I love the coaching staff. ... This is my home and has been for four years. I've got great relationships, and I take pride in who I am as a person."Markstrom added that he thinks there's no tension between him and management, while Conroy said they had a "cordial" chat.The Flames missed the playoffs for the second straight season, but Markstrom had a strong campaign. He ranked third among all netminders in goals saved above expected at all strengths (28.93), per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/stats/goalie_standard/?_inputs_&amp;std_gl_table=%22On-Ice%22&amp;std_gl_team=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_str=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_adj=%22Score%20%26%20Venue%22&amp;std_gl_range=%22Seasons%22&amp;std_gl_span=%22Regular%22&amp;std_gl_group=%22Team%2C%20Season%22&amp;std_gl_age1=%2217%22&amp;std_gl_age2=%2250%22&amp;std_gl_dft_yr=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_status=%22All%22&amp;std_gl_info=%22No%22&amp;std_gl_players=null&amp;std_gl_fa=%2250%22">Evolving-Hockey</a>, and ranked among the best in high-danger save percentage (.868) at five-on-five, according to <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/playerteams.php?stdoi=g">Natural Stat Trick</a>. However, all the 34-year-old cared about was his 23-23-2 record. "Obviously, (I was a) .500 goalie. ... It's not where I want to be, I want to be still playing and win a lot more games than half of the ones I've played," he said.Markstrom owns a career .907 save percentage and 105 wins in 213 appearances as a Flame.

VANCOUVER, CANADA - APRIL 16: Jacob Markstrom #25 of the Calgary Flames looks on during the first period of the NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on April 16, 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Markstrom: 'I don't know' where I'll play next season

Philadelphia Flyers head coach John Tortorella looked inward after his team fell just short of th...

Philadelphia Flyers head coach John Tortorella looked inward after his team fell just short of the playoffs during his second season at the helm."I'm a little frustrated that I couldn't get the team to close the deal," he <a href="https://x.com/NHLFlyers/status/1781338587440558529">told</a> reporters Friday. "That's what we wanted to do. It was a concern of mine with 25 games left or so in the season, 'Can we stay with it?' I think it's my job to get it to the end."I think the team played hard right to the end. I just didn't close the deal. ... So that's something that I've got to evaluate over the summer. Could I have done some things differently?"<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Flyers were battling for a playoff spot for most of the campaign but suffered an untimely eight-game losing streak, with five losses coming against teams outside the postseason picture.Despite the disappointing finish, Philadelphia surpassed preseason expectations, and Tortorella said the experience has given the team "a good footing" for the future.But the Flyers aren't there just yet. "We are a ways away," Tortorella said while defending general manager Danny Briere's decision to prioritize the future at the trade deadline. "We have so much work to do with this team."He added: "I think we still need to add talent to our team. There's no question on that." The hard-nosed bench boss also reaffirmed his commitment to the team following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2890689" href="https://www.thescore.com/news/2890689">reports</a> that Philadelphia wants him back next season.Though other changes may be coming to the Flyers, Tortorella made it clear that his coaching style won't be one of them."You got the wrong coach here if we're gonna be hugging like, 'We're here guys, we played a lousy period and a half there, but it's OK,'" he said. "You're not getting that from me, ever. Those are the decisions management has to make if they think I made a mistake and they show me the door. So be it."I'm not coming off of that because that's how you build a hockey team."

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MARCH 30: Head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers John Tortorella watches the play on the ice during the first period against the Chicago Blackhawks at the Wells Fargo Center on March 30, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Tortorella: 'A little frustrated' I couldn't get Flyers into playoffs

In case there was any doubt, Pittsburgh general manager Kyle Dubas wants captain Sidney Crosby to...

In case there was any doubt, Pittsburgh general manager Kyle Dubas wants captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> to be a Penguin for life. "The intention has always been clear," the executive <a href="https://x.com/penguins/status/1781330339568206009">told</a> reporters Friday. "I think he should finish his career with the Pittsburgh Penguins. How long that is? I'm not going to put any limits on Sidney Crosby. He's capable of great things and is still performing at an extraordinarily high level."Crosby has one season remaining on his 12-year, $104.4-million contract and is eligible to sign a new extension July 1.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Obviously, I'm going to talk to Kyle and have a conversation with him," the future Hall of Famer said Thursday, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/sidney-crosby-to-discuss-contract-with-pittsburgh">NHL.com's Wes Crosby</a>. "We'll see."Dubas added it's "imperative" for contract talks to be kept private, according to team reporter <a href="http://x.com/PensInsideScoop/status/1781328032524812618">Michelle Crechiolo</a>.Crosby was outstanding in his 19th NHL season, leading the Penguins with 42 tallies and 94 points while appearing in all 82 games for the second straight year. This campaign marked the third time he's eclipsed the 40-goal mark in his career. Like Dubas, the future Hall of Famer also didn't put a limit on how many seasons he might have left. "Obviously, at my age, and things like that, there will be a lot of factors," the 36-year-old said, adding, "I don't look any differently at how much longer I can play based off that. It's always just evaluating my game for what it is, not my age."The Penguins missed the playoffs for the second straight season, falling outside the postseason picture by three points despite going 6-2-1 in April.Dubas traded winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5578" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5578">Jake Guentzel</a> to the Carolina Hurricanes before the March 8 deadline. A despondent Crosby said at the time that he wasn't sure what kind of message the front office was trying to send, and the reeling Penguins went on to lose seven of their next nine games.On Friday, Dubas said he was "surprised and disappointed" by the players' response to the trade. "If we had shaken the doldrums a little bit earlier, we might not be in this position," he explained, per <a href="https://x.com/Real_RobRossi/status/1781326194886979930">The Athletic's Rob Rossi</a>.

PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 15: Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) waits for a faceoff during the first period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Nashville Predators on April 15, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA.

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Dubas: Crosby should finish career with Penguins

Though Red Wings veteran Patrick Kane said he enjoyed his time in Detroit, he admitted "it's hard...

Though Red Wings veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/267" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/267">Patrick Kane</a> said he enjoyed his time in Detroit, he admitted "it's hard to say" what his future holds as a pending unrestricted free agent."I guess we'll see what happens," he <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dread3Ey7H0">told</a> reporters Thursday. "I'm sure my agent and (Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman) will have those conversations and go from there."Kane signed a one-year, $2.75-million deal with the Red Wings in November following his recovery from hip resurfacing surgery. He chipped in with 47 points (20 goals and 27 assists) in 50 games, good for the second most on the Red Wings since his season debut Dec. 7.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Coming into this year, my decision was based on playing on a good team," Kane said. "A team where I thought I fit in well, obviously the comfort of playing with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5625" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/5625">Alex (DeBrincat)</a> again was something I was looking forward to. ... I was put in a great situation to succeed and play a lot of minutes."He added: "I think it will be similar going forward: How do I fit in with the team, who would I play with, things like that. … (I'm) maybe looking for a little bit more stability as far as term. I think the right situation matters, too."With three Stanley Cup championships and 143 playoff games (the 12th most among all active players) under his belt, Kane was key to the Red Wings' postseason push. They fell just short of the mark after finishing the season with the same amount of points as the Washington Capitals but five fewer regulation wins.Detroit's playoff drought has now extended to eight years. Kane doesn't think that dry spell will last for much longer, though."I think they're in a great spot," he said. "<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4541" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/4541">(Dylan) Larkin</a>, his competitiveness, young players stepping up at the right times and playing so well in the important games - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11251" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/11251">(Moritz) Seider</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9204" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/9204">(Lucas) Raymond</a>, DeBrincat, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10675" href="https://www.thescore.com/nhl/players/10675">(Simon) Edvinsson</a>. ... I think the future's really bright for the team."As for his own future, Kane said he was able to play pain-free this campaign and that he's looking forward to having a normal offseason in terms of his training."I think I can play for a long time, to be honest with you," he said with a smirk. "I'm 35, hopefully play to 40. Who knows? You just keep playing."

PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 11: Patrick Kane #88 of the Detroit Red Wings skates against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG PAINTS Arena on April 11 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Patrick Kane mum on future with Red Wings: 'We'll see what happens'

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Kayla Douglas

News Editor

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