Lions Officially Release Elimimian and nine others

The BC Lions have officially released veteran linebacker Solomon Elimimian, the team has announced.

The star defender was one of 10 cuts announced Tuesday, in accordance with the CFL’s requirement that team rosters be reduced to 75 players by May 1.

Former first round picks Danny Vandervoort and Charles Vaillancourt were also among those released.

“We have had lengthy discussions with Solomon over the past few months and we believe at this time that allowing him to become a free agent is the best course of action for both parties,” said General Manager Ed Hervey.

The full list of players released is below:

DL David Menard (N)
LS Mike Benson (N)
WR Danny Vandervoort (N)
OL Charles Vaillancourt (N)
DL Mike Ramsay (I)
DL Charles Walker (I)
WR Larry Cobb (I)
WR Travion Tucker (I)
DB DeVron Davis (I)
LB Solomon Elimimian (I)

Elimimian departs the Lions as the club’s all-time leader in defensive tackles with 745 along with four CFL all-star selections, the league’s Most Outstanding Player award in 2014, two Most Outstanding Defensive Player selections (2014, 2016) and a Most Outstanding Rookie award.

He originally signed with the club as a free agent in 2010 and played 118 games over nine seasons along with seven playoff games and the 2011 Grey Cup.

“In an effort to build the kind of team our fans expect this season we were very aggressive in free agency,” noted Hervey. “Acquiring incredibly talented players such as Mike Reilly, Duron Carter and Sukh Chungh have changed the face of our team. Operating under a salary cap however, means difficult personnel decisions are required moving forward.

“We are tremendously grateful for Solomon’s contributions to our organization and I greatly appreciate his patience and professionalism during this time.”

April 30th Morning Skate

THREE HARD LAPS: QUICK HITS FROM MONDAY


* The Blues took a 2-1 series lead after surviving multiple Stars rallies in a third period that saw the clubs trade four goals in a 5:16 span.

* Jordan Binnington earned his 30th career win in his 39th start (regular season and playoffs combined) to match Frederik Andersen for fewest starts needed to reach the 30-win mark.

 * The Blue Jackets and Avalanche each put their respective home win streaks on the line when they host the Bruins and Sharks in their Game 3 matchups.


BLUES SURVIVE FRANTIC THIRD PERIOD, ESCAPE WITH GAME 3 WIN

The Blues entered the third period with a 2-1 lead in search of their fourth straight road victory of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs, but had to survive a wild final frame that saw both teams trade four goals over a 5:16 span - including two game-tying goals by the Stars - before Patrick Maroon’s game-winning marker with 1:38 remaining in regulation propelled St. Louis to a 2-1 series lead.


* Maroon’s game-winning tally marked the fourth different lead for the Blues in Game 3. They are the second team this postseason to win a game in which they had four separate leads, joining the Islanders, who also did so against the Penguins in Game 1 of their First Round series. The Blues’ four separate leads matched their highest such total in a playoff win, last accomplished in Game 3 of the 1990 Division Finals.

The Blues entered the third period with a 2-1 lead in search of their fourth straight road victory of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs, but had to survive a wild final frame that saw both teams trade four goals over a 5:16 span - including two game-tying goals by the Stars - before Patrick Maroon’s game-winning marker with 1:38 remaining in regulation propelled St. Louis to a 2-1 series lead.


* Maroon’s game-winning tally marked the fourth different lead for the Blues in Game 3. They are the second team this postseason to win a game in which they had four separate leads, joining the Islanders, who also did so against the Penguins in Game 1 of their First Round series. The Blues’ four separate leads matched their highest such total in a playoff win, last accomplished in Game 3 of the 1990 Division Finals.

* The Blues - who have won each of their first four road contests of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs (also Games 1,2 and 5 of R1 at WPG) - matched the franchise record for longest road win streak in a single postseason originally set in 1969. In fact, their four victories as visitors in 2019 trails only 2016 (6) for the most in a single playoff year in franchise history.

* Jordan Binnington (28 saves) earned his 30th career win in his 39th start (regular season and playoffs combined). He matched the League record for fewest starts needed to reach 30 career NHL wins (39 GS).

* Jaden Schwartz opened the scoring to boost his 2019 postseason totals to 6-2—8 and move into a tie with Mark Stone (6-6—12), Tomas Hertl (6-4—10) and Logan Couture (6-3—9) for the playoff lead in goals. Each of his six goals have come in the Blues’ last five contests. Only three players in Blues franchise history have tallied more in a span of five playoff games: Brett Hull (7 in 1990 and 1991), Joe Mullen (7 in 1982) and Brian Sutter (7 in 1982).


* When the Blues win Game 3 after splitting the first two games in a best-of-seven matchup, they own an all-time series record of 7-7. Overall, when a best-of-seven series is tied 1-1, the winner of Game 3 owns an all-time series record of 213-103 (67.4%) – including a 1-3 mark in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

SNEAK PEEK AT TUESDAY’S ACTION

A pair of deadlocked series switch locations on Tuesday when the Bruins visit the Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena and the Avalanche host the Sharks at Pepsi Center. Columbus will host a postseason game past the opening round for the first time in franchise history, while Colorado will do so for the first time in 11 years.

* Columbus returns to Nationwide Arena for the first time since its historic sweep of Presidents’ Trophy-winning Tampa Bay. The Blue Jackets enter Tuesday’s contest with wins in seven of their last eight home games, with their only loss coming at the hands of the Bruins on April 2 (6-2 L).

* Boston and Columbus have required overtime in each of the first two games of the Second Round. Only six series in NHL history have began with at least three straight OT games: TOR-BOS in the 1933 Semifinals (Games 1-3), TOR-MTL in the 1951 Stanley Cup Final (Games 1-5), COL-MIN in the 2008 Conference Quarterfinals (Games 1-3), PHX-CHI in the 2012 Conference Quarterfinals (Games 1-5), TOR-WSH in the 2017 First Round (Games 1-3) and CBJ-WSH in the 2018 First Round (Games 1-3).

* Colorado won both home games in the First Round against Calgary and have won 11 of its last 13 at Pepsi Center overall, including eight consecutive victories, while outscoring opponents 32-15 over that span (including shootout-deciding goals). A pair of Avalanche skaters enter the contest on six-game point streaks: Mikko Rantanen (5-6—11) and Nathan MacKinnon (4-7—11). The last Colorado skater to record a playoff point streak longer than six games was Peter Forsberg in 2004 (4-6—10 in 7 GP).

* Sharks defenseman Brent Burns, who is tied for second in playoff scoring (4-7—11 in 9 GP), has collected 3-4—7 in the opening two games of the Second Round (1-3—4 in Game 1 and 2-1—3 in Game 2). Only two defensemen in Stanley Cup Playoffs history have recorded three or more points in three consecutive games: Denis Potvin in 1981 (5-6—11 in 3 GP) and Paul Coffey in 1985 (3-7—10 in 3 GP).

Elie Bouka Retuirns To Riders

The Saskatchewan Roughriders have signed national defensive back Elie Bouka to a one-year contract.

Bouka (6’1 – 205 lbs) joins the Roughriders for the second time in his professional career after previously playing four games in the Green and White in 2017.

The 27-year-old spent time with several NFL clubs including the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018 and the Arizona Cardinals in 2016.

Bouka was selected by the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the third round (24th overall) in the 2016 CFL Draft.

He played four seasons at the University of Calgary from 2012-2015, switching from receiver to defensive back in 2013. As a defensive back, registered 24.5 defensive tackles and one interception. As a receiver he caught 16 receptions for 137 yards and two touchdowns.

(Saskatchewan Roughriders)

April 29th Morning Skate

THREE HARD LAPS: QUICK HITS FROM SUNDAY


* Warren Foegele and Nino Niederreiter scored 1:05 apart and 35-year-old Curtis McElhinney shined in a relief effort as the Hurricanes took a 2-0 series lead on the road for the first time in franchise history.

* Tyson Barrie collected three points while Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen continued point streaks to help the Avalanche head back to Denver with their series tied 1-1.

* Rookies are shining in the Blues-Stars series as it shifts to Dallas tied at one game apiece.


HURRICANES STORM BACK TO CLAIM 2-0 SERIES LEAD ON THE ROAD

With their fans surging outside in Raleigh, Warren Foegele and Nino Niederreiter each scored in the opening 1:05 of the final frame to help the Hurricanes rally and take a 2-0 lead in their series with the Islanders. They have won four straight games dating to Game 6 of the First Round, marking the second-longest playoff win streak (tied) in Hurricanes/Whalers history, trailing only a seven-game run in 2006 en route to the franchise’s first Stanley Cup.

* This marks the first time in franchise history that the Hurricanes/Whalers hold a 2-0 lead in a best-of-seven series after claiming each victory on the road. Overall, this marks the fifth time in franchise history that they have won the first two games in a best-of-seven series. The others: 1987 Division Semifinals (4-2 L vs. QUE), 2002 Conference Quarterfinals (4-2 W vs. NJD), 2006 Conference Semifinals (4-1 W vs. NJD) and 2006 Stanley Cup Final (4-3 W vs. EDM).

* Carolina’s quick strikes to open the third period established a franchise mark for fastest two goals to begin a playoff period, surpassing the previous record set by Ray Whitney and current head coach Rod Brind'Amour in the final frame of Game 2 in the 2006 Conference Quarterfinals (1:15) against Montreal.

* Carolina sits two wins shy of the reaching the Eastern Conference Final despite finishing the game without the services of six regulars - including starting goaltender Petr Mrazek, one of three players who left Game 2 with injury.


* Mrazek stopped nine of 10 shots he faced - extending his shutout streak to 135:04 - before Curtis McElhinney entered in relief of Mrazek and stopped all 17 shots directed toward him (with help from the posts and captain Justin Williams). McElhinney, making his first appearance since April 6, became the third-oldest goaltender in NHL history to earn his first postseason victory.

* Niederreiter scored his fourth career playoff game-winning goal. Niederreiter (5th overall in 2010) is one of two players on the Carolina roster that was a first-round pick of the Islanders (also defenseman Calvin de Haan: 12th overall in 2009).

* Foegele sparked the Hurricanes rally with a goal 17 seconds into the third period. A third-round pick (67th overall) in the 2014 NHL Draft, Foegele boosted his postseason totals to 5-2—7 and trails only Erik Cole (6-3—9 in 2002) for the most goals and points by a Hurricanes/Whalers rookie in a single playoff year.

BARRIE’S THREE-POINT OUTING HELPS AVALANCHE EVEN SERIES WITH SHARKS

Tyson Barrie (1-2—3) notched his second career three-point playoff outing, while Nathan MacKinnon (1-1—2) and Mikko Rantanen (0-1—1) each extended their point streaks to help the Avalanche even their Second Round series with the Sharks at one game apiece.

* Colorado won at SAP Center for just the third time in the last 10 years (COL: 3-16-5 including regular season and playoffs). Prior to Sunday, their last victory in San Jose came on Dec. 28, 2015; their other win in that span was Game 1 of 2010 Conference Quarterfinals.

* Barrie, who established franchise records for career goals, assists and points by a defenseman this season, became just the fourth Avalanche/Nordiques blueliner to register multiple three-point outings in the playoffs (also 0-3—3 in Game 5 of 2019 R1).

* Rantanen (5-6—11) and MacKinnon (4-7—11) have combined for 22 points while finding the score sheet in each of Colorado’s past six contests. They are the first Avalanche players with a playoff point streak of at least six contests since Peter Forsberg (4-6—10 in 7 GP) and Joe Sakic (4-4—8 in 6 GP) each did so during the 2004 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

BURNS OFF TO SIZZLING START IN SECOND ROUND

Brent Burns factored on all three Sharks goals, notching an assist and scoring twice in the final five minutes of regulation, to boost his totals to 3-4–7 in the Second Round against the Avalanche.

* Burns is the third defenseman in NHL history to record seven or more points in the first two games of a playoff series - Denis Potvin (5-3—8) did so with the Islanders in the 1981 Quarterfinals against the Oilers and Gary Suter (1-6—7) followed with the Calgary Flames in the 1988 Division Semifinals against the Los Angeles Kings.

* Overall, Burns leads the team with 11 points in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs (4-7—11 in 9 GP) - tied for the second-most among all players. In 2016, Burns tallied 24 points in 24 games (7-17—24) to help San Jose reach the Stanley Cup Final for the first time - tied with Bobby Orr (5-19—24 in 1972) for the sixth-most points ever by a defenseman in a single postseason.

SNEAK PEEK AT MONDAY’S ACTION

The Second Round series between the Blues and Stars shifts to Dallas after the latter skated to a victory in Game 2 at Enterprise Center.

 * Dallas forward Roope Hintz (4-3—7 in 8 GP) sits tied with Carolina’s Warren Foegle (5-2—7 in 9 GP) for the most points among rookies in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Hintz’s four goals equal the highest single-postseason total by a Stars rookie since the club began play in Dallas.

* No stranger to long playoff runs, Hintz helped HIFK reach the championship series in the Finnish Elite League in 2015-16. In the 2017 playoffs, Hintz propelled his club to the Semifinal after leading the postseason in assists (11) and points (14), including a five-point outing (1-4—5) in a 6-5 overtime defeat in the bronze medal game. He then led all rookies in assists during the 2018 Calder Cup Playoffs to help the AHL’s Texas Stars reach the Final, tallying 4-8—12 in 22 playoff games.

* Blues rookie Jordan Binnington has recorded 29 wins in 38 starts since making his first career NHL start on Jan. 7 (regular season and playoffs combined). He can match the League record for fewest starts to record his 30th career NHL win (39 GS), a mark set by Frederik Andersen on Oct. 31, 2014 (w/ ANA).

GAME 3 WINNER AFTER A TWO-GAME SPLIT: DID YOU KNOW?

When a best-of-seven series is tied 1-1, the winner of Game 3 owns an all-time series record of 213-103 (67.4%) – including a 1-3 mark in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

* The Stars franchise is 14-5 all-time when holding a 2-1 series lead in a best-of-seven (.736), including a 5-4 mark when those series began on the road (.556). When they win Game 3 after splitting the first two games in a best-of-seven, the Stars/North Stars own an all-time series record of 7-3.

* The Blues are 10-9 all-time when holding a 2-1 series lead in a best-of-seven (.526), including a 7-4 mark when those series began at home (.636). When they win Game 3 after splitting the first two games in a best-of-seven, St. Louis owns an all-time series record of 7-7.

* This marks the sixth time that the franchises have split the first two games in a best-of-seven series. The winner of Game 3 has claimed the series in two of the previous five instances (STL in 2016 R2 and MNS in 1991 DF); the Blues rallied to win the 1968 Semifinals, while the North Stars did the same in the 1971 Quarterfinals and 1984 Division Finals.

(NHL Media) 

Something To "Mitch" About

Tongues are wagging in Rider Nation after it was learned over the weekend the BC Lions will likely be releasing linebacker Solomon Elimimian with one of the teams being interested in his services being the Riders.

Make no doubt about it, Elimimian, who missed most of last year, can still play, but do the Riders have interest in the 32 year old.  If I were them, I would.   Looking at the depth chart, it is rather thin at linebacker.   I would think going into camp, you would have Derrick Moncrief, Sam Hurl and Cam Judge likely pencilled in as starters with free-agent Dyshawn Davis. Micah Teitz and Alexandre Gagne also in there. I would think Elimimian could provide an upgrade at a position where the team perhaps needs to make one.

When you look at this roster going into the draft, there is still a question at the quarterback position moreso as to who the backup may be should Zach Collaros go down.

I would say the team is set at running back and while the receiving group is a young one, they have a year of seasoning under their belt which should make players like Kyran Moore and Shaq Evans better with this year maybe being the year that former Ram Mitch Picton cracks the opening day roster.  There is also that veteran presence with Naaman Roosevelt.

When you look at the o-line, I would think your starting 5 going into camp would be Dan Clark at center, Dariusz Bladek and Brendon Labatte at guard with the tackles being Takoby Cofield and Thaddeus Coleman. I would think that Dakoda Shepley and Phillip Blake will be pushing to be on that starting five as well and with Labatte's versatility it could mean a lot of change.

Defensively. Chad Geter and Charleston Hughes are likely pencilled in as your ends  for the beginning of camp with A.C Leonard right there as well. Zack Evans and Micah Johnson will be your tackles with the secondary looking like Nick Marshall and Crezdon Butler with the halfbacks being Ed Gainey and Loucheiz Purifoy and Mike Edem at safety.

Will any of this change after Thursday's draft.  That is doubtful as I can't see the team's first round pick--6th overall being a starter but who knows. The team should have their choice of offensive linemen, but there are other positions to look at as well.   I just wonder how the Riders draft board along with the boards of other teams changed after the NFL draft with many who will be taken this week signing free agent deals in the NFL including Laval DL Mathieu Betts who is said to be the number one prospect.  Personally, I would like to see the team roll the dice again like they did with Shepley last year and take Arkansas State WR Justin McInnis.  The team needs Canadian receivers.  He may not be there at 6 though. He will be heading to the rookie camp of the Indianapolis Colts so he could be a guy that shakes free sooner than later.  Time will tell!

--Meanwhile, some Rider fans are unimpressed with the fact their season tickets came in a clear, plastic bag.  Really?  Did you want the keys to a car or something? Clear, plastic bags are becoming the norm at stadiums for security reasons.  Why do you feel the football team is obligated to give you something else besides your season tickets.  It just never stops!  Can we bring up the water-fountain issue again?

--It will be the Prince Albert Raiders vs the Vancouver Giants in the WHL final.  I have seen the Raiders and know what they are all about.  I don't know much about the Giants for the fact I haven't seen a lot of them.  The Western Conference champs are no pushovers as we have seen the last couple of years.   It is just nice that after years and years of not seeing a Saskatchewan team in the league final, that we have one three straight years.

--Nikita Kucherov, Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby are the finalists for the Hart Trophy, symbolic of NHL MVP.  Not one of them registered a playoff win.  I'm shocked to see McDavid make the final three and I'm stunned to see Crosby there as well.  Yes, Sid had a 100 point season, but it was a quiet 100 point season.  Patrick Kane, Alexander Barkov and Nathan McKinnon should have gotten some consideration.

-- I just can't buy that Mike Babcock's job is on the line in Toronto after the Leafs first round playoff exit.  I thought Kyle Dubas was supposed to be smart? Even considering removing Babcock from behind the bench is stupid.  Was it Babcock that signed William Nylander to a huge contract?

--While down 2-0 in their 2nd round series to Carolina, is it safe to say the Islanders were not bothered by the John Tavares defection to Toronto via free agency.  Is it safe to say the Islanders were the better team between the two?  Oh how an Eastern Conference final between those two teams would have been salacious in nature.

--The only player that might be better in the NHL right now than Connor McDavid is Nathan McKinnon.  It is so much fun watching him play.  He is a little more physical than #97 as well and while not as quick, he isn't that far behind.

--The kid can play the game, but I have to admit I was hoping to see a little bit more from Vladimir Guerrero Junior this weekend  I was ready to see what the Blue Jays prospect could do Friday night agianst major league pitching and it looked for a moment as if his 2nd at-bat was going to be a homer.  It was just a deep flyball to left. 

At the end of the weekend, VGJ did not mash the ball, but he created some excitement.  I don't know what numbers he can put up this year, but I would look at what Juan Soto did in Washington and what Ronald Acuna Junior did in Atlanta during their 20 and 21 year old seasons to get a solid estimation as to what Guerrero can do with the bat.

--Cookie Monster has had a Twitter account since 2014, but I am just finding out about it now.  HOW??

--Who remembers the day when "The Avengers" were John Steed and Emma Peel? They were the originals!


That's all I got.   Have a great weekend!

April 27th Stanley Cup Playoffs Morning Skate

THREE HARD LAPS: QUICK HITS FROM FRIDAY

 * Petr Mrazek earned his second shutout of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs to help the Hurricanes outduel Robin Lehner and the Islanders in the 12th overtime game this postseason (50 GP; 24%). Friday was the sixth straight day to feature extra time.

* Brent Burns posted a career-high four points and Joe Thornton recorded his 100th career playoff assist as the Sharks rallied past the Avalanche in Game 1 at SAP Center.

 * Teams that take a 1-0 lead in a best-of-seven series own an all-time series record of 472-217 (68.5%), including a 5-3 mark in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

MRAZEK, HURRICANES OUTDUEL LEHNER, ISLANDERS IN GAME 1

After Petr Mrazek (31 saves) and Robin Lehner (31 saves) went save-for-save through 60 minutes - combining for 60 stops in regulation, including breakaway denials against Josh Bailey and Greg McKegg, respectively - Jordan Staal broke the ice in overtime to give Carolina a 1-0 series lead.

* Mrazek, who recorded an 18-save shutout in Game 3 against the Capitals in the First Round, became the third goaltender in Hurricanes/Whalers franchise history to record multiple shutouts in a playoff year, joining Cam Ward (2006 and 2009) and Kevin Weekes (2002).

* Only three goaltenders in franchise history have recorded more than 31 saves in a playoff shutout: Ward (36 in Game 2 of 2009 CSF), Weekes (32 in Game 6 of 2002 CQF) and Mike Liut (32 in Game 6 of 1986 DF). Mrazek has posted a shutout in five of his nine career playoff wins.

 * After scoring the tying goal in the third period of Wednesday’s Game 7 victory in Washington, Staal netted his first career playoff overtime goal. His brother Eric Staal also scored an overtime goal for the Hurricanes in the Stanley Cup Playoffs - exactly 13 years earlier, in Game 3 of the 2006 Conference Quarterfinals in Montreal. Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour provided the screen for Staal’s goal 13 years ago.

 * Friday marked the sixth straight day to include an overtime contest, marking the seventh such streak in League history and first since an equal run in 2015. There have been four stretches in Stanley Cup Playoffs history of seven or more consecutive days with playoff overtime: April 19-27, 2011 (9 days), April 21-27, 2014 (7 days), May 2-8, 2013 (7 days) and April 13-19, 2001 (7 days).

VETERAN DUO PROPELS SHARKS OVER AVALANCHE IN SERIES OPENER

After collecting 1-3—4 through seven contests in the First Round, Brent Burns (1-3—4) matched those totals in Game 1 against the Avalanche - notching one of his three assists on Kevin Labanc’s highlight-reel go-ahead goal - to propel his team to a 1-0 series lead.

* After leading the team with a career-high 83 points during the regular season (16-67—83 in 82 GP) and being named a Norris Trophy finalist on Sunday, Burns factored on four of five goals. In doing so, Burns (17-34—51 w/ SJS) eclipsed Dan Boyle (11-37—48) for the most playoff points by a defenseman in Sharks franchise history.

* Thirty-nine-year-old Joe Thornton (1-1—2) has found the score sheet in eight of his last 10 games dating to April 2 (including 2-4—6 in 7 playoff games). With one helper Friday, Thornton (29-100—129) became the 24th player in NHL history - and third active skater - to record at least 100 career postseason assists.

* Thornton (1,566 GP) and Burns (1,043 GP) are among a group of 12 active NHL players with 1,000 or more career regular-season games in search of their first Stanley Cup. Two others are still competing in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Jason Spezza (1,065 GP; DAL) and Jay Bouwmeester (1,184 GP; STL).

* Labanc netted his first career game-winning goal in the playoffs, doing so on the heels of a record-setting performance in Game 7 against the Golden Knights. The Staten Island, N.Y., native was selected in the sixth round (171st overall) by San Jose in the 2014 NHL Draft. He then posted back-to-back 100-point seasons with the Ontario Hockey League’s Barrie Colts in 2014-15 and 2015-16, finishing as the OHL’s top scorer in the latter campaign.

BLUE JACKETS, STARS AIM FOR ROAD SPLITS TO START SECOND ROUND

A pair of Wild Card teams will look to even their Second Round series during a doubleheader that begins Saturday at 3 p.m. ET in St. Louis.

* Teams that take a 2-0 lead in a best-of-seven series own an all-time series record of 321-51 (86.3%), including a 3-1 mark in 2019.

SATURDAY DOUBLEHEADER BEGINS WITH MATINEE IN ST. LOUIS

After opening the second round with the highest U.S. viewership numbers in five years, the Blues, Stars, Bruins and Blue Jackets will contest another doubleheader today:

* After making 27 saves in Game 1, Blues rookie Jordan Binnington will look for the upper hand yet again on Stars netminder Ben Bishop. Both goaltenders were drafted by St. Louis, with Bishop (85th overall in 2005) making 13 appearances for the Blues before being traded to Ottawa eight months after the club selected Binnington with the 87th overall pick in the 2011 NHL Draft (87th overall).

* Bishop has made a habit of rebounding after playoff defeats, owning a 10-3 record and one no-decision (Game 2 of 2015 SCF) following a loss within a postseason (.941 SV%, 1.60 GAA, 2 SO). Additionally, Bishop is 9-2 in 11 career playoff games after allowing three or more goals (.950 SV%, 1.42 GAA, 2 SO) - with one of those defeats coming after a 6-5 overtime victory against the Rangers in Game 3 of the 2015 Eastern Conference Final.

* Acquired five days apart in February, Bruins newcomers Charlie Coyle (5-1—6) and Marcus Johansson (1-2—3) have combined for 6-3—9 through Boston’s eight playoff games, equaling their respective and cumulative regular-season point totals with the club (Coyle: 2-4—6 in 21 GP; Johansson: 1-2—3 in 10 GP). Coyle has scored on each of his last three shots and can become the first Bruins player to score on four straight shots in a postseason dating to 1997-98 (the first year of real-time statistics). Sixteen NHL players have done so in that span, including three last year (Mark Scheifele, Jake Guentzel and Alex Killorn).

 * Columbus defensemen Zach Werenski (29:06) and Seth Jones (28:01) were the only skaters to log at least 25 minutes of ice time in Game 1 against Boston, marking the fourth such outing in five games this postseason for each of them. Artemi Panarin extended his playoff point streak to five games (2-4—6) on Thursday - part of a cumulative eight-game point streak dating to April 2 (3-7—10) - and has points in 12 of 13 games overall dating to March 24 (5-12—17).

Elimimian To Be Released By Lions; Knox Interested In Riders Return

TSN football insider Dave Naylor sent out a report Friday night saying the BC Lions have informed linebacker Solomon Elimimian he will be released.

The team has apparently been trying to trade him, but there has been no interest.

The 32 year old, who only played four games last season, has spent his entire CFL career with the Lions, playing nine seasons and winning two Most Outstanding Defensive Player Awards (2014, 2016), and the 2014 Most Outstanding Player Award.

3 Down Nation's Justin Dunk is reporting Jeff Knox Junior has reached out to the Riders to see if there is interest.

Knox says after several attempts at the NFL, he is now concentrating his efforts on continuing his pro career in Canada.

Knox Jr. spent the first three seasons of his CFL career in Saskatchewan. He played 43 games recording 200 tackles, 36 more on special teams, two sacks and one interception. During his rookie season in Regina, Knox Jr. earned the Riders’ Most Outstanding Player, Most Outstanding Defensive Player and Most Outstanding Rookie awards because of a franchise single-season record 114 tackles.

He played seven games for the Argos last year after signing a one-year deal following his release from the Tennessee Titans prior to the start of the NFL season.

Former Pat Jordan Weal Signs Two Year Deal With Montreal

Montreal Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin announced on Friday that the team has agreed to terms on a two-year contract (2019-20 and 2020-21) with forward Jordan Weal (one-way contract - average annual value of $1.4M).

The North Vancouver, BC native played 63 games in 2018-19 with the Canadiens, Philadelphia Flyers and Arizona Coyotes, producing 8 goals, 13 assists and matching his career-high with 21 points. Weal, a right handed centerman, also recorded 18 penalty minutes and scored two powerplay goals.

The 5-foot-10, 179-pound forward registered 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in 16 games with the Canadiens, including three power play points and one game-winning goal. Weal also won 55.1% of his faceoffs during his stint with the Canadiens and maintained a 15:36 average of ice time per game.

In 169 career regular season games in the NHL with the Los Angeles Kings, Philadelphia Flyers, Arizona Coyotes and the Canadiens, Weal has registered 54 points (24 goals, 30 assists). The former member of the Regina Pats, in the WHL, has collected 42 career penalty minutes in the NHL in addition to winning 53.4% of his draws. He skated in one playoff game in 2017-18 with Philadelphia.

Jordan Weal was selected in the third round (70th overall) by the Los Angeles Kings at the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. He was acquired from the Arizona Coyotes on February 25, 2019, in return for forward Michael Chaput.

(Montreal Canadiens)

April 26th Morning Skate

THREE HARD LAPS: QUICK HITS FROM THURSDAY

 * After the 2019 First Round finished as the most-watched in seven years, the Blues and Bruins opened the Second Round with wins on home ice as St. Louis edged Dallas in regulation and Boston defeated Columbus in overtime.

 * Teams that take a 1-0 lead in a best-of-seven series own an all-time series record 472-217 (68.5%), including a 5-3 mark in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

* Eleven of 48 games have required overtime in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs (23%), eclipsing the total from the entire 2018 postseason (10 of 84 GP; 12%).

TARASENKO, BINNINGTON LEAD BLUES TO GAME 1 WIN

Vladimir Tarasenko scored twice and Jordan Binnington made 27 saves – including 16 in the third period – as the Blues defeated the Stars to take a 1-0 lead in their Second Round series. St. Louis improved to 3-0 in its last three contests dating to a come-from-behind win in Game 5 of the First Round (3-2 W at WPG).

* Thirteen of the Blues’ 18 postseason games since the beginning of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs have been decided by a one-goal margin (72.2%), with St. Louis improving to 10-3 in those contests. Their win percentage of .769 in one-goal games since 2017 is the highest in the NHL (min. 5 GP).

* Tarasenko recorded his seventh career multi-goal game in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, trailing only Brett Hull (13) for the most in franchise history. He scored his ninth career power-play goal in the postseason to pass Brian Sutter and Al MacInnis for sole possession of fourth place on the Blues’ all-time list, behind Hull (27), Bernie Federko (13) and Frank St. Marseille (10).

* Binnington, meanwhile, improved to 5-2 in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs (2.54 GAA, .911 SV%) and established a franchise record for most postseason wins by a rookie goaltender, eclipsing the previous mark of four shared by Jacques Caron and Curtis Joseph.

 * Binnington has recorded 29 wins in 37 appearances since his first career NHL start on Jan. 7 (regular season and playoffs combined), the most victories among all goaltenders in the 2019 calendar year.

COYLE SCORES TYING GOAL, OVERTIME WINNER AS BRUINS TAKE GAME 1

Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 29 of the first 30 shots he faced and Columbus scored twice in a span of 13 seconds to erase a 1-0 deficit in the third period, but Charlie Coyle netted the tying goal with 4:35 left in regulation and scored in overtime to give the Bruins a 1-0 series lead.

 * Coyle, a native of East Weymouth, Mass., who was acquired by the Bruins on Feb. 20 - five days before the trade deadline - managed his first multi-goal game in more than 14 months (Feb. 10, 2018 w/ MIN). It also stood as his first ever such performance in the postseason, handing the Blue Jackets - one of the busiest clubs on the trade market in February - their first loss of the 2019 playoffs.

* Coyle became the second player in franchise playoff history score a tying goal in the final five minutes of regulation and the overtime winner, joining Patrice Bergeron who did so in Boston’s historic Game 7 win during the 2013 Conference Quarterfinals (5-4 OT W vs. TOR). He is the second player to accomplish the feat in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs (also Colorado’s Mikko Rantanen in Game 4 of R1 vs. CGY).

 * After posting 2-4—6 in 21 regular-season games with Boston, Coyle now leads the team with five goals this postseason (5-1—6 in 8 GP) - one back of the League lead. Since 2012-13, only four other players acquired on or near the Trade Deadline collected as many goals in the postseason. The others: Marian Gaborik (14 G in 2014 w/ LAK), Martin St. Louis (8 G in 2014 w/ NYR), Mark Stone (6 G in 2019 w/ VGK), Paul Stastny (6 G in 2018 w/ WPG), Carl Hagelin (6 G in 2016 w/ PIT) and Thomas Vanek (5 G in 2014 w/ MTL).

* Marcus Johansson, who scored the series-clinching goal in Game 7 against Toronto on Tuesday, assisted on both of Coyle’s tallies. Like Coyle, he was also acquired by the Bruins leading up to the 2019 NHL Trade Deadline.

ISLANDERS, SHARKS HOST HURRICANES, AVALANCHE IN GAME 1

The two remaining Second Round series begin tonight when the Islanders host the Hurricanes at Barclays Center and the Sharks welcome the Avalanche to SAP Center.

The Islanders (4 GP) and Avalanche (5 GP) each required no more than five contests to reach the Second Round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs, while the Hurricanes and Sharks both triumphed in Game 7s to advance. A look at some of the top performers for each team in the First Round:


* Islanders forward Jordan Eberle scored a goal in all four games of their First Round series (4-2—6). Eberle can become the second player in franchise history to score at least one goal in each of the first five games of a postseason; he would join Ray Ferraro, who did so to open the 1993 Stanley Cup Playoffs (8-2—10 in 5 GP).

 * Hurricanes defenseman Jaccob Slavin led the team in scoring (0-9—9 in 7 GP), setting a franchise record for assists in a series as Carolina became the 15th team in the expansion era to eliminate the defending Stanley Cup champion in the opening round. Seven of the previous 14 won their next series, with four moving on to the Final and one winning the Cup (1971 Canadiens).

* The Sharks tandem of Logan Couture (6-2—8 in 7 GP) and Tomas Hertl (6-2—8 in 7 GP) combined for three goals in a span of 3:33 to spark San Jose’s three-goal comeback in Game 7. Their six goals against Vegas were one shy of the franchise record for most in any series. Erik Karlsson (0-9—9 in 7 GP), meanwhile, set a club record for assists in a playoff series.

 * Avalanche teammates Mikko Rantanen (5-4—9 in 5 GP) and Nathan MacKinnon (3-5—8 in 5 GP) finished as the team’s top two scorers in the First Round – including one overtime goal apiece. Both players tallied at least one point in Games 2-5, with Rantanen collecting multiple points in each contest (one such shy of tying an Avalanche/Nordiques franchise playoff record).

(NHL Media)

This and That

--Welcome to Friday and the usual thoughts running through my muddled mind.  As always, they come in no particular order

--Can someone get the Vegas Golden Knights some diapers after they soiled themselves in Game 7.  Choking away a 3-0 lead midway through the third period and losing in overtime was bad enough, but this team than lacked the fortitude to look in the mirror and blame themselves.

Yes, the Knights got royally hosed on what should have been a minor penalty to Cody Eakin on the Joe Pavelski injury instead of a five-minute major.  They didn't.  Deal with it.  It's like they have never been on the positive end of a bad call. They didn't deal with it as they gave up four, yes FOUR power-play goals and then they still had almost a period to win it in overtime and didn't.   That isn't the fault of the referees or the NHL, it is the fault of every player and coach on the bench.  Perhaps we should place the blame on Mark Stone who turned the puck over at the blueline leading to Barclay Goodrow's goal. That would be too easy though right?  Those damn officials probably shouldn't have counted Cody Eakin's 2nd period goal either, but no one was complaining then right boys?

--It was only fitting that Round 1 of the SC playoffs ended with an overtime game.  What a first round it was.  It will be very tough to match that whether it be this year, next year or the year after that.  What we have found again is that all you have to do is get in and you have a realistic chance at winning the Stanley Cup.

--What team comes out of the Western Conference?  I am thinking we see a St. Louis vs Colorado Western Conference final and I would have to go with Colorado.   That being said, one would think Jordan Binnington beats out Phillip Grubauer in the goaltending battle.  The bottom line is who knows?  A Twitter poll I put up Thursday asking what teams you think will come out on both sides ended up seeing Boston and St. Louis.  Why not!

--Jim Hopson is heading to the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.  It had to be a no-brainer.. What Hopson did for the Riders during his decade as president/CEO is immeasurable.  We are going to Mosaic Stadium 2.0 to watch the green-and-white play because of Hopson's efforts to make this team the CFL's elite franchise.  He may have come around at the right time, but he has to be given a lot of credit for making the team what it is today.  We will never know what someone else might have done on the job, but I am guessing the same results wouldn't have been achieved.

--What will the 2019 Riders miss more?  Chris Jones the head coach or Chris Jones the defensive co-ordinator.

--When is Jon Ryan going to make a decision on what CFL team he will be calling home?  I would be shocked if the Regina native isn't doing his thing for the Riders this year.  If the money is right, how could he not "come home"?

--Speaking of JR,  Canada West is starting a Hall of Fame.  It begs the question as to what U of R Cougar athletes/people should go to the conference HOF.  Just off the top of my head, I would say Chris Biegler, Cymone Bouchard, Noah Picton, Jon Ryan and Dick White.  I would also add the late Crystal (Heisler) McGregor to that list.  I know there are many more who would be deserving.  I also go why hasn't Canada West had one before?

--Patrick Mahomes is the cover boy for Madden 20.  He is one of the NFL's brightest young stars.  What young star (under 27) would you put on the cover of a CFL video game?

--There is a lot of excitement for Vladimir Guerrero Junior as he prepares to make his major league debut for the Blue Jays.  The game's top prospect will be on full display on both sides of the border tonight.  Some believe he isn't physically ready as his weight is a concern.  I guess we will find out starting tonight if this guy is "it" or not. I just hope the hype isn't too much for him.


That's all I got.  Have a great weekend!

April 25th Morning Skate

THREE HARD LAPS: GAME 7 QUICK HITS

 * The First Round came to a close with the Hurricanes knocking off the defending Stanley Cup champions in the third-longest Game 7 in NHL history.

 * Ten games required overtime in the First Round, matching the total from the entire 2018 postseason.

* For the first time in NHL history, the top team from each conference and all division winners were eliminated in the opening round. Washington’s defeat guarantees that there will be a new Stanley Cup champion for the 19th time in the past 20 seasons.


HURRICANES RALLY FOR FIRST SERIES WIN IN A DECADE

Carolina overcame a 3-1 deficit and Brock McGinn (1-1—2) scored the winner at 11:05 of the second overtime as the Hurricanes rallied past the Capitals in Game 7 and advanced to the Second Round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Carolina earned its first Stanley Cup Playoff series win since the 2009 Conference Semifinals – a seven-game triumph over Boston.

* The Hurricanes, who earned the only road win in their First Round series with the Capitals, improved to 5-3 in eight all-time Game 7s – including five straight victories. Their five consecutive Game 7 wins dating to the 2006 Conference Finals (4-2 W vs. BUF) are the fourth-longest such run in League history.

* Carolina has overcome a deficit to earn four of its five all-time Game 7 wins, including each of its last three (also 2006 CF, 2009 CQF and 2009 CSF). The Hurricanes became the sixth franchise in NHL history to record as many come-from-behind Game 7 wins, joining the Maple Leafs (5), Bruins (4), Canadiens (4), Flyers (4) and Oilers (4).

 * The Hurricanes became the 13th team in NHL history and second in as many days to overcome a multi-goal deficit to win a Game 7 (also SJS in 2019 R1). Carolina became the second team in League history to accomplish the feat against a defending Stanley Cup champion, joining Los Angeles in the 2014 Conference Finals (5-4 OT W at CHI).

 * Wednesday’s contest was the longest Game 7 in Hurricanes/Whalers franchise history, eclipsing the 1992 Division Semifinals versus the Canadiens (85:26). In fact, it marked the third-longest Game 7 in League history, behind only the 1987 Division Semifinals between the Islanders-Capitals dubbed the “Easter Epic” (128:47) and the 1939 Semifinals between the Bruins-Rangers (108:00).

 * The Hurricanes will face the Islanders in the Second Round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs, their first-ever postseason meeting. New York held a 3-1-0 edge through the four-game season series (CAR: 1-2-1).

BEHIND THE NUMBERS: THE PLAYERS BEHIND THE COMEBACK

Brock McGinn became the second player in Hurricanes/Whalers franchise history to score an overtime goal in a Game 7, joining Scott Walker in the 2009 Conference Semifinals (3-2 OT W at BOS). Aside from McGinn and Walker, only two other players in franchise history have scored a series-clinching goal in overtime: Martin Gelinas in Game 6 of the 2002 Conference Finals (2-1 OT W at TOR) and Cory Stillman in Game 6 of the 2006 Conference Quarterfinals (2-1 OT W at MTL).

 * McGinn became the 12th player in NHL history to score the decisive goal in a Game 7 that required multiple overtimes and first since Pittsburgh’s Chris Kunitz in the 2017 Conference Finals (3-2 2OT vs. OTT). He became the first Hurricanes/Whalers player to score the winner in any postseason game that required multiple overtimes.

 * “Mr. Game 7” Justin Williams provided the primary assist on the overtime winner to record his 15th career point in a seventh and deciding game (7-8—15 in 9 GP), extending his NHL record. His eight career Game 7 assists are the fourth-most in League history behind Doug Gilmour (3-10—13 in 11 GP), Jaromir Jagr (1-10—11 in 8 GP) and David Krejci (0-9—9 in 10 GP).

 * Jaccob Slavin (0-3—3) established a franchise record for most points in a Game 7 by a defenseman, eclipsing the previous mark of two set by Tim Gleason (0-2—2) in the 2009 Conference Quarterfinals (4-3 W at NJD) as well as Dennis Seidenberg (0-2—2) and Joni Pitkanen (0-2—2) in the 2009 Conference Semifinals (3-2 OT W at BOS). Hurricanes defenseman Brett Pesce (0-2—2) also collected two points on Wednesday.

* Slavin became the eighth defenseman in NHL history to record three points in a Game 7 and first since the Red Wings tandem of Nicklas Lidstrom (2-1—3) and Brian Rafalski (0-3—3) in the 2010 Conference Quarterfinals (6-1 W at PHX). No defenseman in League history has ever recorded more than three points in a Game 7.

 * Jordan Staal scored the tying goal at 2:56 of the third period, his third career goal in a Game 7 and first with the Hurricanes (3-0—3 in 5 GP). His older brother, Eric Staal, also scored a Game 7 goal with the Hurricanes – doing so during the 2009 Conference Quarterfinals (1-1—2 at NJD).

 * They became the fourth set of brothers in NHL history to each score at least one Game 7 goal with the same franchise, joining Henri Richard and Maurice Richard (w/ MTL), Dennis Hull and Bobby Hull (w/ CHI) and Andrei Kostitsyn and Sergei Kostitsyn (w/ MTL).

GAME 7 QUICK HITS

* Capitals forwards Nicklas Backstrom and Alex Ovechkin made their 12th career Game 7 appearance. The only players in NHL history who have appeared in more Game 7s are Patrick Roy (13), Scott Stevens (13) and Zdeno Chara (13).

 * Each of the last six Stanley Cup champions have won at least one Game 7. Since 1987 when all rounds became best-of-seven, 21 of 31 Cup winners have contested at least one Game 7 en route to winning a title.

* The team that scores first is 129-46 (.737) in the 175 all-time Game 7s in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, including a 1-2 mark in 2019. Home teams own a 102-73 (.582) advantage.

* Forty-three Game 7s in the Stanley Cup Playoffs have required overtime (24.5%). Home teams have a 22-21 edge.

SIXTY IS NOT ENOUGH

The First Round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs featured two Game 7s that required overtime, with each occurring on consecutive days.

* Only three other rounds in NHL history have featured two Game 7s that required overtime, with each occurring on either the same day or on consecutive days: the 1997 Conference Quarterfinals (2 on April 29), 2011 Conference Quarterfinals (April 26-27) and 2012 Conference Quarterfinals (April 25-26). No postseason in NHL history has ever featured more than two Game 7s that have required overtime.

 * Overall, 10 of 46 games required overtime in the First Round (21.7%), matching the total from the entire 2018 postseason (10 of 84 GP; 11.9%).

SECOND ROUND OPENS IN BOSTON, ST. LOUIS ON THURSDAY

After three Game 7s over two days thrilled fans to conclude the opening round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs, half of the Second Round series will contest Game 1 on Thursday when the Bruins host the Blue Jackets at TD Garden and the Blues welcome the Stars to Enterprise Center.

* The Bruins and Blue Jackets are meeting in the postseason for the first time. Columbus is coming off a historic First Round sweep of the Presidents’ Trophy-winning Lightning to advance past the opening round of the playoffs for the first time in franchise history while Boston was victorious in an opening-round, seven-game series against Toronto for the second straight season.

 * The Bruins held a 2-1-0 edge in their three-game season series (CBJ: 1-1-1). Boston and Columbus combined for 22 goals through their three head-to-head meetings in 2018-19 for an average 7.3 per game.

* The Stars and Blues franchises, meanwhile, will face off in the postseason for the 14th time, with St. Louis holding a 7-6 series edge. They have split the four series since the Stars relocated to Dallas in 1993-94, with the Blues winning the last two meetings including a seven-game triumph in the 2016 Second Round.

* The Stars are 6-1-0 in their last seven games against the Blues dating to Dec. 29, 2017 (STL: 1-5-1).

(NHL Media) 

Vladdy Jr To Make MLB Debut Friday

The wait is over. The time is now. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the top prospect in baseball per MLB Pipeline, and the most hyped Minor League player in Blue Jays franchise history, is heading to the big leagues.

Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo made the official announcement Wednesday evening following a 4-0 loss to the Giants. The highly anticipated move came just hours after Guerrero went 2-for-5 with a home run in his final game for Triple-A Buffalo.

The 20-year-old missed almost all of Spring Training with a strained oblique muscle. Wednesday marked the first time this year Guerrero played three consecutive days, which was believed to be the final hurdle he needed to pass before a promotion. After Guerrero cleared that obstacle, the callup for Friday's series opener vs. Oakland became a foregone conclusion.

"This is a big moment for the Toronto Blue Jays," Montoyo said. "He's the No. 1 prospect in baseball. It's coming Friday. It's a big moment for us. Hopefully, he becomes what everybody thinks he's going to become. That's going to be good for all of us. The city of Toronto, the Blue Jays, the organization."

After months of non-stop hype and speculation, Guerrero closed out his Minor League career in style. In the top of the seventh inning, during Wednesday morning's game vs. Syracuse, Guerrero stepped into the box for his second-to-last at-bat and sent the ball deep over the wall in right for an opposite-field home run.

Guerrero likely finishes his time in the Minors -- minus any potential future rehab games -- with a career .331/.413/.531 slash line and 44 homers over parts of four seasons. In eight games for Buffalo this year, Guerrero hit .367 with three home runs, a double and eight RBIs over 30 at-bats. Outside of his defense, Guerrero had nothing left to prove in the Minors and should immediately step into a prominent role with the Blue Jays as their starting third baseman.

"I think we have to be patient, but I honestly think he's going to do well," Montoyo said. "Whatever happens, we have to be patient. Defensively, offensively, because he's 20-years-old. He's comfortable. He's not going to be nervous and scared of the big leagues. ... I think he'll be fine when he comes here."

Montoyo admitted Wednesday that he has already spent a lot of time thinking about where Guerrero will hit in the lineup. Toronto's first-year skipper wasn't prepared to make any definitive statements before Guerrero's arrival, but it's safe to assume that it won't take long at all for the Dominican native to become a permanent fixture in the heart of the batting order.

The Blue Jays also have spent the past several weeks talking about the roster changes that will be made as a result of Guerrero's arrival. Montoyo confirmed that Brandon Drury will shift from third to second when Guerrero joins the team. Veteran infielder Freddy Galvis, who is currently out with a sore left hamstring, is a possible candidate for the injured list to make room.

"I got to see a little bit of him when I was down in Florida," Blue Jays starter Clay Buchholz said. "He's pretty special. It's fun to watch him in the box. I actually pitched to him a couple of times and he definitely hit a hard ball off me. I think it's going to be good.

"I told him that his dad was the first hit that I gave up in the big leagues. It's pretty cool to be around the son of a guy that got the first hit off me in the big leagues. I think everybody is looking forward to it."

Montoyo has spent the last several weeks answering an endless stream of questions from reporters about the timing of Guerrero's arrival. Even though Guerrero wasn't even in the same country as his future teammates, he dominated the pregame talk on a daily basis. The ironic part is that the player Montoyo has talked about the most this year, is someone he hasn't seen more than a handful of times.

In some ways, Montoyo is just like the fanbase: eager to get his first real look at what the hype is all about.

"The funny thing about it, I haven't seen him play," Montoyo said. "I hear everything from everybody else, which I believe what people say. But the only time I saw him was in Spring Training, the 20 at-bats or so that I saw ... I want to see what everybody is talking about. In person."

(MLB.com)

Jim Hopson Named To The Canadian Football Hall of Fame

The man who oversaw the Saskatchewan Roughriders from a time span of 2005-2015 making them the elite franchise in the Canadian Football League is headed to the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.

Former Riders president/CEO Jim Hopson was named as a builder as the Class of 2019 was announced in Toronto on Wednesday morning.

The 68-year-old became the team's first president and CEO with the team reaching four Grey Cup games winning in 2007 and 2013 with the team perhaps experiencing a popularity that it never had---something that continues on today.

Hopson, a Regina native, also played for the Riders in 1973.

The induction ceremony will be held in Hamilton on August 9. Others going in are Jon Cornish, Mervyn Fernandez, Terry Greer, David Williams, Ernie Pitts and Frank Smith as a builder.

April 24th Morning Skate

THREE HARD LAPS: GAME 7 QUICK HITS


* Barclay Goodrow scored the overtime winner as the Sharks stunned the Golden Knights by becoming the second team in NHL history to overcome a three-goal, third-period deficit to win a Game 7.

 * Joakim Nordstrom and Sean Kuraly led the Bruins to their second Game 7 win over the Maple Leafs in as many years.

 * The First Round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs is set to conclude tonight as the Capitals host the Hurricanes in Game 7.



SHARKS AND GOLDEN KNIGHTS PLAY TO STUNNING FINISH IN GAME 7

With the Golden Knights leading 3-0 in the third period, the Sharks scored four power-play goals in a span of 4:01 to take the lead but Vegas tied the game with 47 seconds left on the clock, setting the stage for Barclay Goodrow’s overtime goal to lift San Jose to victory in Game 7.

* The Sharks became the second team in NHL history to overcome a three-goal, third-period deficit to win a Game 7 - the Bruins did so in the 2013 Conference Quarterfinals against the Maple Leafs (5-4 OT W). Only three other teams in League history have overcome a three-goal deficit at any point to win a Game 7: Washington in the 1988 Division Semifinals, Edmonton in the 1991 Division Semifinals and Philadelphia in the 2010 Conference Semifinals.

 * San Jose, which overcame a 3-1 series deficit to advance for the first time in franchise history, will face the Avalanche in the Second Round. This will mark their fifth all-time playoff meeting.

* San Jose matched the NHL record for most power-play goals in a playoff period, a mark last achieved by Washington in Game 3 of the 2016 First Round (4 PPG in 3rd). The Sharks’ four strikes in 4:01 were the eighth-fastest four goals by one team in Stanley Cup Playoffs history and fastest since the Blues in Game 3 of the 1998 Conference Quarterfinals (3:07 - coincidentally also all PPG).

 * The Sharks, who earned a double-overtime win in Game 6, won consecutive playoff games in overtime for the second time in franchise history (also 2011: Game 6 of CQF, Game 1 of CSF).

BEHIND THE NUMBERS: THE PLAYERS BEHIND THE COMEBACK

In addition to his overtime winner, Barclay Goodrow tallied one shot on goal, went 2-for-5 in the face-off dot, posted a -2 rating and logged only 7:26 of ice time (including 1:40 in the extra frame). Goodrow, a former OHL captain signed by the Sharks in 2014 as an undrafted free agent, has had each of his two career playoff goals stand as game-winners (also Game 5 of 2019 R1). Ray Whitney is the only other player in franchise history to score in overtime of a Game 7 (2OT in 1995 CQF at CGY).

* Kevin Labanc (1-3—4) factored on all four Sharks goals in regulation to become the first player in League history to record four points in a period during a Game 7. He also matched the NHL record for most points in any playoff period and became the 13th player in League history to post four or more points in a Game 7.

* Logan Couture (2-0—2) and Tomas Hertl (1-1—2) each scored to conclude the First Round with six goals apiece, one shy of tying the franchise record for most in a playoff series.

* Erik Karlsson (0-2—2) concluded the First Round with nine assists (0-9—9 in 7 GP) – including the primary helper on the Goodrow winner – to establish a franchise record for most assists in a playoff series. Only two defensemen in NHL history have recorded more assists in a postseason series: Calgary’s Al MacInnis (1984 DF: 1-11—12 in 7 GP) and Edmonton’s Paul Coffey (1985 CF: 3-11—14 in 6 GP).

UNSUNG HEROES LEAD BRUINS TO ANOTHER GAME 7 WIN VS. MAPLE LEAFS

After Brad Marchand (4-5—9 in 7 GP) and David Pastrnak (2-4—6 in 7 GP) paced Boston through the first six contests, it was Joakim Nordstrom (1-1—2) and Sean Kuraly (1-1—2) who led the way Tuesday as the Bruins won Game 7 against the Maple Leafs for a second straight year. Boston will play Columbus in the Second Round, their first-ever playoff meeting.

* Boston improved to 15-12 in their NHL-record 27 all-time Game 7s, passing Montreal (14-9 in 23 GP) and Detroit (14-11 in 25 GP) for the most Game 7 wins in League history.

 * The Bruins earned their sixth consecutive series win over the Maple Leafs dating to the 1969 Quarterfinals to match the third-longest head-to-head series win streak in NHL history.

* Nordstrom, an offseason acquisition from Carolina, was one of three players to score for the Bruins in Game 7 after not being part of the team last season. Marcus Johansson (GWG) and Charlie Coyle (ENG), both acquired leading up to the 2019 NHL Trade Deadline, also scored for Boston. Those marked the first career Game 7 goals for all three players.

* Kuraly recorded his first points of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs (3 GP) and first career points in a Game 7 (2 GP). Three of Kuraly’s five career postseason goals have come in clutch fashion (5-3—8 in 19 GP); his first two were scored in Game 5 of the 2017 First Round in Ottawa, including the double-overtime winner to help Boston stave off elimination.

 * Tuukka Rask (32 saves), the 21st overall pick by the Maple Leafs in the 2005 NHL Draft, improved to 3-2 in five career Game 7s - with each of those victories coming against Toronto. He is the only goaltender in NHL history to earn multiple Game 7 wins against the Maple Leafs franchise.

* Rask became the fifth goaltender in NHL history to earn three or more career Game 7 wins against an Original Six franchise. Ken Dryden (2 vs. BOS, 1 vs. CHI) is the only other goaltender to do so in the NHL’s expansion era (since 1967-68); the others are Harry Lumley (1 each vs. BOS, MTL, NYR & TOR), Johnny Bower (1 each vs. BOS, DET & MTL) and Terry Sawchuk (2 vs. MTL, 1 vs. CHI).

 

POWER PLAY SUCCESS: DID YOU KNOW?

The Bruins concluded the First Round with a power-play percentage of 43.8% (7 of 16), the fourth-highest on record by a team in a postseason series (min. 15 PP Opp.). The only ones higher under that condition: 52.1% by the Flyers (12 of 23 in 2012 CQF vs. PIT), 44.8% by the Islanders (13 of 29 in 1981 QF vs. EDM) and 44.4% by the Flyers (8 of 18 in 1980 SF vs. MNS).

GAME 7 QUICK HITS

Bruins forward David Krejci (10 GP) became the seventh active NHL player to appear in at least 10 career Game 7s, a list which includes teammates Patrice Bergeron (11 GP) and Zdeno Chara (13 GP). Chara tied an NHL record by playing in his 13th career Game 7, joining all-time co-leaders Patrick Roy and Scott Stevens.

* Bergeron (6-4—10 in 11 GP) and Krejci (0-9—9 in 10 GP) each found the score sheet and rank tied for eighth and 10th on the NHL’s all-time Game 7 points list – which is topped by Hurricanes captain Justin Williams (7-7—14 in 8 GP), who can add to his career totals tonight.

* The Sharks and Golden Knights combined for six goals in the third period. Only two sets of teams have combined for as many goals in a period during a Game 7: the North Stars-Kings in the 1968 Quarterfinals (7 in 2nd) and Oilers-Flames in the 1984 Division Finals (6 in 2nd).

 * Each of the last six Stanley Cup champions have won at least one Game 7. Since 1987 when all rounds became best-of-seven, 21 of 31 Cup winners have contested at least one Game 7 en route to winning a title.

* The team that scores first is 129-45 (.741) in the 174 all-time Game 7s in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

* Home teams own a 102-72 (.586) advantage in the 174 all-time Game 7s in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

* Forty-two Game 7s in the Stanley Cup Playoffs have required overtime (24.1%). Home teams have a 22-20 edge.

FIRST ROUND TO CONCLUDE WITH GAME 7 IN D.C.

The defending Stanley Cup champion Capitals will host the Hurricanes in Game 7 as the clubs vie for the final spot in the 2019 Second Round. Click here for detailed Game 7 statistics for the Capitals, Hurricanes and their players.

* Washington will play in its 12th Game 7 since the beginning of the 2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the most among all teams in that span, while Carolina will be making its first appearance since winning Game 7s in consecutive series of the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs en route to the Eastern Conference Final.

 * Capitals forwards Nicklas Backstrom and Alex Ovechkin are set to make their 12th career Game 7 appearances (4-7). The only players in NHL history who have appeared in more Game 7s are Patrick Roy (13), Scott Stevens (13) and Zdeno Chara (13).

 * Capitals forward Carl Hagelin is 8-1 in nine career Game 7s. His eight victories are tied for the most in NHL history with Brad Richards (8-0), Ray Bourque (8-1) and Glenn Anderson (8-4).

 * Hurricanes captain Justin Williams is the leading Game 7 scorer in NHL history (7-7—14 in 8 GP). Williams, in his second stint with the club, will be making his first Game 7 appearance for the Hurricanes in 13 years. During the club's Stanley Cup-winning run in 2006, Williams tallied a goal and two assists in a 4-2 win over Buffalo in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Final and notched the insurance goal in the 3-1 win over Edmonton in the winner-take-all finale of the Stanley Cup Final.

(NHL Media) 

April 23 Morning Skate

THREE HARD LAPS: QUICK HITS FROM MONDAY


* The Stars eliminated yet another division winner, while the Hurricanes won to force Game 7 against the Capitals - the top seed in the Metropolitan Division. Carolina’s win set up the third and final winner-take-all game of the 2019 First Round, which will be played Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET in Washington.

* Justin Williams - a.k.a. “Mr. Game 7” - and Jordan Staal helped the Hurricanes become the 10th team in the expansion era to push the defending Stanley Cup champions to Game 7 in the opening round.

* John Klingberg scored the first series-clinching overtime goal ever by a Stars/North Stars defenseman as Dallas set up its 14th all-time playoff meeting with St. Louis.


FIRST ROUND TO CONCLUDE WITH THREE GAME 7s

The opening round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs is set to feature three Game 7s, marking the 14th time in NHL history - and first time since 2014 (3) - that at least three such contests will be played in the opening round. Four postseasons have featured more opening-round Game 7s, with the record standing at six in 1992.


* The Capitals hold an all-time record of 5-11 in Game 7s (3-8 at home). They will contest a Game 7 for the 12th time in their last 20 series since 2008, which is more than 17 active NHL franchises have played in their history.

* The Hurricanes hold an all-time record of 4-3 in Game 7s (2-3 on road), including wins in each of their last four such outings. Only three franchises in NHL history have strung together wins in at least five consecutive Game 7s: the Rangers (6 from 2012-2015), Bruins (6 from 1983-1994) and Red Wings (6 from 1949-1964).

VETERANS RISE TO THE OCCASION AS HURRICANES FORCE GAME 7

Despite entering the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs with a roster that featured the second-fewest cumulative postseason games played (363 GP), the Hurricanes won yet again on home ice to force Game 7 against the defending Stanley Cup champions. Their victory Monday was thanks in part to third-period goals by veterans Jordan Staal (1-1—2; GWG) and Justin Williams (1-0—1).

 * Carolina became the 12th team in NHL history to push the defending Stanley Cup champions to a Game 7 in the opening round and 10th to do so in the expansion era (since 1967-68).

* Staal netted his third career game-winning goal in the postseason and first since Game 4 of the 2012 Conference Quarterfinals with the Penguins (at PHI). His brother, Eric Staal, tallied 4-3—7 in six career games for the Hurricanes in which they faced elimination, including the lone goal in their last such contest (Game 4 of 2009 CF: 4-1 L vs. PIT) and the winning goal in Game 7 of the 2009 Conference Quarterfinals against the Devils.

* Williams, dubbed “Mr. Game 7” during his first stint with Carolina, netted a crucial insurance marker with 8:02 remaining in the third period. He now has 15-12—27 in 23 games when facing elimination, the most such points among active players.

* Williams’ average of 1.17 points per game when facing elimination is the second-highest such total among active NHL players with a minimum of 15 such appearances, behind Patrick Kane (1.26; 6-18—24 in 19 GP). Ken Linseman paces all player in NHL history with an average of 1.61 points per game in such contests (10-19—29 in 18 GP w/ PHI, EDM and BOS).

CAPS VS. CANES GAME 7: DID YOU KNOW?

* Rookie head coaches Rod Brind'Amour (CAR) and Todd Reirden (WSH) are set to become the seventh set of first-year head coaches to meet in a Game 7 - with three of the previous six instances coming in the first year of the expansion era (1967-68). The last such meeting came in 1990, when Mike Milbury’s Bruins defeated Rick Ley’s Hartford Whalers in Game 7 of the Division Semifinals.

* The home team has won every contest in this series, with Monday marking the first time a team rallied to win after surrendering the first goal. This marks the 21st time that the home team has won each of the first six games of a series; the home team has won all seven contests 10 times (Last: 2016 R2 SJS 4-3 W vs. NSH).

* The Hurricanes can become the fourth team to eliminate a regular-season division winner in the 2019 First Round. If they do, it would mark the first time in NHL history that all division winners were eliminated in the opening round.

 * This currently stands as the 11th time in NHL history that at least three division winners have been eliminated in the opening round - with six of those instances coming between 1998-99 and 2012-13 when the League was divided into six divisions (last: 4 of 6 in 2013 CQF).

KLINGBERG LIFTS STARS INTO SECOND ROUND WITH FRANCHISE-FIRST OT GOAL

John Klingberg scored at 17:02 of overtime to lift the Stars to their first playoff series win since a six-game victory in the 2016 First Round over the Wild. Dallas, which improved to 16-8 in 24 all-time potential series-clinching games on home ice, will face St. Louis in the Second Round of the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

* The Stars and Blues franchises will meet in the postseason for the 14th time, with St. Louis holding a 7-6 series edge. They have split the four series since the Stars relocated to Dallas in 1993-94, with the Blues winning the last two meetings including a seven-game triumph in the 2016 Second Round.

* Klingberg, the franchise leader in regular-season overtime tallies by defensemen (4), became the first Stars/North Stars blueliner to score an overtime goal in a series-clinching game. Only two other defensemen in franchise history have ever found the back of the net beyond regulation in the postseason: Paul Cavallini (Game 3 of 1994 CQF) and Mattias Norstrom (Game 3 of 2008 CSF).

* Monday’s hero notched the franchise’s ninth series-clinching overtime goal and just the third on home ice, joining Brenden Morrow (Game 6 of 2008 CSF) and Steve Payne (Game 7 of 1984 DF).

* Dallas, which finished the 2018-19 campaign with the second-fewest goals against (202, including shootout-deciding goals; 2.46 GA/GP), allowed only 12 goals in the six-game showdown against the Central Division-champion Predators (2.00 GA/GP). The Stars went a perfect 15-for-15 on the penalty kill in the First Round, including a kill that began with 1:53 remaining in regulation.

ANOTHER GAME 7 FOR BRUINS-MAPLE LEAFS

For the third time since 2013 and second time in as many years, the Maple Leafs and Bruins will conclude their opening round matchup with a Game 7. Toronto is aiming for its first series win in 15 years - and first over the Bruins in the expansion era - while Boston vies for its sixth consecutive series win over the Maple Leafs - which would match the third-longest head-to-head series win streak in NHL history.

* The Original Six rivals head to Game 7 for a third consecutive meeting following historic wins by the Bruins in the last two - both of which featured unprecedented drama at TD Garden. In 2013, Boston became the first team in NHL history to overcome a three-goal, third-period deficit to win a Game 7 (BOS 5, TOR 4 OT). In 2018, the Bruins became the first team in League history to overcome three deficits of at least one goal to win a Game 7 in regulation (BOS 7, TOR 4).

 * Boston captain Zdeno Chara (0-4—4 in 12 GP) is set to tie an NHL record by playing in his 13th career Game 7, joining all-time co-leaders Patrick Roy and Scott Stevens.

 * Chara is one of five Bruins players to have appeared in each of the last two Game 7s against the Maple Leafs: Patrice Bergeron (3-3—6), David Krejci (0-5—5), Brad Marchand (1-2—3), Chara (0-2—2) and goaltender Tuukka Rask (2-0). Two members of the Maple Leafs have been in the lineup for each of those contests: Jake Gardiner (0-2—2) and Nazem Kadri (1-1—2).

 * The Bruins will contest their NHL-record 27th all-time Game 7, owning a 14-12 record in the previous 26 contests including a 13-8 mark on home ice. Boston is tied with Montreal (14-9 in 23 GP) and Detroit (14-11 in 25 GP) for the most Game 7 victories all-time; the Bruins sit alone atop the lists for most Game 7s at home (21) and most Game 7 wins at home (13).

 * Toronto (12-11 in 23 GP) will surpass Montreal into sole possession of the third-most Game 7s in NHL history as the club enters its 24th such contest (behind BOS and DET). They own a record of 5-10 in Game 7s as visitors.

* The Maple Leafs will aim to win a series by claiming three road victories for the fourth time in franchise history, with two of the three instances coming against the Bruins - with the last such occurrence coming 68 years ago in the 1951 Semifinals (also 1945 SCF at DET and 1949 SF at BOS). Toronto’s provincial rivals -- the Ottawa Senators -- were the last to achieve the feat against Boston, doing so in the 2017 First Round en route to the Eastern Conference Final.

SHARKS-GOLDEN KNIGHTS ALSO SET TO FACE OFF IN GAME-7 CLASH

After requiring six games in their first-ever meeting during the 2018 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Sharks and Golden Knights are set to meet in Game 7 - the 11th such contest for San Jose (6-4 overall; 3-1 at home) and first for Vegas.

* After Tomas Hertl’s shorthanded goal in double-overtime allowed the Sharks to force Game 7 after facing a 3-1 series deficit for the first time, San Jose now will contest its first Game 7 since defeating Nashville in the 2016 Second Round (5-0 W) en route to the Final.

* Martin Jones, who established a franchise record for most saves in a postseason contest in Game 6 (58), is one of six different Sharks goaltenders to win a Game 7 and can become the first to win multiple such outings. His 20-save shutout in 2016 against the Predators is the only Game 7 shutout in franchise history.

 * The Golden Knights, meanwhile, can become the 16th franchise in NHL history to win their first-ever Game 7 and second in as many years after the Jets accomplished the feat during the the 2018 Second Round (5-1 W at NSH).

* Marc-Andre Fleury has collected three Game 7 victories over the course of his career, all on the road (2009 CSF at WSH, 2009 SCF at DET and 2017 R2 at WSH). Fleury’s three career Game 7 wins are three shy of the most by a goaltender in NHL history behind Henrik Lundqvist, Patrick Roy and Martin Brodeur (each w/ 6).

GAME 7 TRENDS

* The team that scores first is 128-44 (.744) in the 172 all-time Game 7s in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

 * Home teams own a 100-72 (.581) advantage in the 172 all-time Game 7s in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

 * Forty-one Game 7s in the Stanley Cup Playoffs have required overtime (23.8%). Home teams have a 21-20 edge.

(NHL Media)

  

Back to Bargaining Next Week

Contract talks between the CFL and its players are back on again.

Both the CFL Players' Association and league confirmed Monday they'll resume contract talks next week. The two sides will gather in Toronto next Monday and Tuesday.


"The hope is that the CFL is coming back to the table with the intention to find a solution to the expiring agreement," Brian Ramsay, the executive director of the CFLPA, said in a statement. "We remain steadfast that we want an agreement that is fair, reasonable and grows the game of football in Canada.

"CFL players and fans deserve nothing less."

The league and players last met April 9 in Vancouver to conclude two days of talks. The following day, Ramsay told reporters the CFL had unilaterally decided to delay negotiations until next Monday, at the earliest.

Ramsay said the CFLPA was told the league had "other priorities" to take care of before it could resume negotiations.

The current collective bargaining agreement expires May 18, with training camps scheduled to open the following day. Rookies and quarterbacks are scheduled to report May 15.

Following the delay in contract talks, the CFLPA recommended to its players they forego reporting to training camp if a new collective bargaining agreement hasn't been reached by then. The union also said it didn't intend to work past May 18 unless a new deal was agreed upon.

The two sides continue to negotiate non-monetary items.

The union's recommendation has met with support by a number of prominent players, most notably quarterbacks Mike Reilly of B.C. and Bo Levi Mitchell of Calgary. They signed the two richest deals in free agency — Reilly a four-year, $2.9-million with the Lions and Mitchell a four-year contract reportedly worth $2.8 million to remain with the Grey Cup-champion Stampeders.

Other players of note to publicly support the CFLPA's recommendation include running backs James Wilder Jr. of the Toronto Argonauts and Andrew Harris of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and defensive linemen Ted Laurent of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Odell Willis of B.C.

Talks formally began March 11-12 in Toronto. The CFL and CFLPA had met twice a week over a five-week span before the delay.

There are reports the CFLPA will hold a strike vote Wednesday. However, even it the players voted overwhelmingly in favour, it wouldn't mean a work stoppage was imminent.

Such votes are normal protocol in collective bargaining. They're usually done to show solidarity and provide the bargaining committee with a strike mandate as a sign the membership is serious about its demands in contract talks.

In this instance, it's also a step in ensuring the various provincial laws are satisfied in the event a work stoppage is necessary. But Ramsay reiterated the union's goal remains reaching a fair deal that works for both parties.

"We already a have clear overwhelming mandate and this vote is to satisfy provincial legislation and the various labour codes across the country," Ramsay said. "The CFL's position has been extremely aggressive and unnecessary, including withholding our members' 2019 salaries to date.

"What has not changed is the players' desire to seek a collective agreement prior to the start of 2019 season. We have stated on the record we are available to meet with the CFL at any time."

April 22 Morning Skate

THREE HARD LAPS: QUICK HITS FROM SUNDAY

 * Tomas Hertl scored a first-of-its-kind shorthanded double-overtime winner as the Sharks defeated the Golden Knights to stave off elimination and force Game 7.

* The Bruins defeated the Maple Leafs and will face Toronto in a Game 7 for the second time in as many years.

* Two Game 7s will be contested on the same day for the first time since May 10, 2017, when the Penguins blanked the Capitals (2-0 W) and the Ducks edged the Oilers (2-1 W) as both teams advanced to the Conference Finals.

SHARKS FORCE GAME 7 IN DOUBLE-OVERTIME THRILLER

Tomas Hertl scored while shorthanded at 11:17 of the second overtime as the Sharks defeated the Golden Knights to force Game 7 in their First Round series. San Jose won to survive elimination and force a Game 7 for the third time in franchise history (also 1995 CQF vs. CGY and 2012 CSF vs. LAK).

* Hertl became the fifth player in franchise history to score an overtime goal in a game that required multiple overtimes and the second to do so in a contest where the Sharks faced elimination; he joined Ray Whitney in Game 7 of the 1995 Conference Quarterfinals (5-4 2OT W at CGY).

 * Additionally, Hertl became the first player in NHL history to score a shorthanded winner in a game that required multiple overtimes. Only eight other players in League history have scored a shorthanded goal in the first overtime of a postseason game.

* Martin Jones made 58 saves to establish a franchise record for most in a postseason game, eclipsing the previous mark of 56 set by Wade Flaherty in Game 7 of the 1995 Conference Quarterfinals (5-4 2OT W at CGY). He also set a Sharks record for most saves in any game, besting the old benchmark of 57 set by Jeff Hackett on Dec. 26, 1992 (7-2 W vs. LAK).

 * The Sharks, who rallied from a 3-1 series deficit to force a Game 7 for the first time in franchise history, will contest their 11th all-time Game 7 and first since the 2016 Second Round (5-0 W vs. NSH). San Jose is 6-4 in its 10 previous Game 7s, including a 3-1 mark on home ice.

 * The Golden Knights, meanwhile, will contest their first Game 7 in franchise history. Vegas can become the 16th franchise in NHL history to win its first-ever Game 7 and second in as many years; they would join the Jets, who accomplished the feat in the 2018 Second Round (5-1 W at NSH).

BRUINS OUTSHOOT, OUTLAST MAPLE LEAFS TO FORCE GAME 7

Brad Marchand (2-1—3) factored on three of four goals as the Bruins outshot the Maple Leafs 41-24 to force Game 7 in their First Round series. Boston won to survive elimination and force a Game 7 for the 11th time in franchise history and first since a Game 6 victory in the 2012 Conference Quarterfinals (4-3 OT W at WSH).

* The Bruins recorded a shot differential of +17 or higher in a game where they were facing elimination for the seventh time since 1955-56 and first since outshooting the Hurricanes 40-19 in Game 5 of the 2009 Conference Semifinals (+21).

 * Torey Krug (1-0—1) led the way with nine shots to become the first Bruins defenseman to log as many in a postseason contest since teammate Zdeno Chara had an equal amount in Game 1 of the 2013 Conference Semifinals (3-2 OT W vs. NYR). The most shots on goal recorded by any defenseman in a postseason contest is 13 (since 1959-60), a mark set by Detroit’s Nicklas Lidstrom in Game 4 of the 1997 Conference Semifinals (3-2 2OT W at ANA).

 * Boston has converted on seven of 16 power-play opportunities in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs (43.7%), including going two-for-two in Game 6. The Bruins have scored more than seven power-play goals in a postseason series on eight prior occasions (since 1933-34), most recently in the 1991 Conference Finals (8 vs. PIT).

* Marchand leads the Bruins with 4-5—9 in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs (6 GP) and is one of 38 NHL players averaging at least one point per game this postseason. Marchand has collected 21 career points in the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Maple Leafs franchise (7-14—21 in 20 GP), trailing only David Krejci (9-16—25 in 20 GP), Johnny Bucyk (10-14—24 in 20 GP) and Phil Esposito (11-11—22 in 13 GP) for the most in Bruins history.

 * Tuukka Rask improved to 11-9 in 20 career postseason appearances against Toronto (2.65 GAA, .915 SV%) and passed Frank Brimsek (10-12) and Harry Lumley (10-19) for the second-most postseason wins against the Maple Leafs franchise, trailing only Terry Sawchuk (22-14).

GAME 7 HISTORY: BOSTON VS. TORONTO

The Bruins and Maple Leafs will require Game 7 for a third consecutive head-to-head series. Boston secured historic come-from-behind wins in the previous two instances – in the 2013 Conference Quarterfinals, the Bruins became the first team in NHL history to overcome a three-goal, third-period deficit to win in a Game 7 (5-4 OT W); in the 2018 First Round, Boston became the first team in NHL history to overcome three deficits of at least one goal to win a Game 7 in regulation (7-4 W).

* The Bruins and Maple Leafs are the third set of franchises in NHL history to require a Game 7 in three consecutive head-to-head postseason meetings, joining the Canucks-Flames (1989 DSF, 1994 CQF, 2004 CQF) and Capitals-Rangers (2012 CSF, 2013 CQF, 2015 R2).

 * The Bruins and Maple Leafs are the seventh set of franchises in NHL history to require a Game 7 in consecutive years, joining the Canadiens-Red Wings (1954 SCF, 1955 SCF), Black Hawks-Red Wings (1964 SF, 1965 SF), Avalanche-Stars (1999 CF, 2000 CF), Avalanche-Kings (2001 CSF, 2002 CQF), Capitals-Rangers (2012 CSF, 2013 CQF) and Kings-Sharks (2013 CSF, 2014 R1).

* The Bruins will contest their NHL-record 27th all-time Game 7, owning a 14-12 record in the previous 26 contests including a 13-8 mark on home ice. Their 14 all-time Game 7 wins are tied with the Canadiens (14-9) and Red Wings (14-11) for the most in NHL history.

 * The Maple Leafs own an all-time record of 12-11 in Game 7s, including a 5-10 mark on the road.

SNEAK PEEK AT MONDAY’S ACTION

Washington enters Monday’s contest with the opportunity to advance past the First Round for the fifth consecutive year. The Capitals hold an all-time record of 20-32 in potential series-clinching games, including a 4-0 mark in 2018 en route to capturing the franchise’s first-ever Stanley Cup.

* Dallas, meanwhile, looks to earn its first playoff series win since a six-game triumph over Minnesota in the 2016 First Round. The Stars/North Stars hold an all-time record of 29-22 in potential series-clinching games, including a 15-8 mark on home ice.

* When trailing a best-of-seven series 3-2, the Hurricanes/Whalers have won to force Game 7 four times while going on to win the series on one of those occasions (2009 CQF vs. NJD). In the same scenario, the Predators have extended to a seventh and deciding game three times – winning once (2016 R1 vs. ANA).

(NHL Media)