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Islanders Anxiety – Episode 371 – Kids love JELL-O

Mike and Dan recap some news around the Islanders and their AHL affiliate, question the team’s bizarre partnering with JELL-O and reveal some important announcements.

While fans like us are still mad about the Islanders being home during the NHL playoffs, there was some news coming out of the team’s prospect pool. The Bridgeport Islanders ended their 25-year-run in the city with a short and unsuccessful stay in the playoffs that mirrored how the big club ended their season. Once again, there are things to celebrate, but also things to be sad and disappointed about. Many have fond memories of the longtime minor league outpost that will become more intense as the move to Hamilton inches closer to finality. But there is excitement about a fresh start in a lush new home, and it will be a fascinating experiment to watch the… whatever they’ll be called.

Later, we do something people have been asking about for a while and give the Islanders themselves the Master Leaf Theatre treatment. What seems like an innocuous corporate cameo appearance is, for us, a concerning look at the team’s real priorities. It’s fair to wonder what truly matters here, as this flashy new toy isn’t exactly filling us with the childish sense of fun it’s supposed to and feels more like a peek into a dystopian future.

Sprinkled throughout the show are three big announcements about a sweepstakes, a poll for our Weirdest Islander of the Year and our schedule for the rest of the offseason. So stick with us through the whole thing.

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The Real Problem Wasn’t The Puck in Oilers’ OT Loss to Ducks

Most everyone is of the impression that the puck crossed the line in overtime as the Edmonton Oilers now find themselves down 3-1 in their first-round series with the Anaheim Ducks. Logic suggests it was in. But, that's not really the point, is it?

Logic alone is not supposed to be enough to determine such a critical call in a potential series-changing decision. You need proof. The officials didn't have it. 

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First, with no conclusive video evidence showing the full puck in the white space behind the goal line, there is no footage proving that a part of the puck wasn't touching the goal line.

Second, no referee was in a position to call the goal good while the play was happening. Yet, somehow, after not calling a goal, the officials got together and ruled the puck had crossed. They essentially overruled their indecision. That choice meant the war room had to find enough evidence to overturn the call on the ice. They couldn't. As such, the goal stood. 

It was a situation where, as the rules are supposed to work, they ended up working against the Oilers.

"Worst call I’ve ever seen. In the history of the NHL, this is it," said Spittin' Chiclets Ryan Whitney. After some time to reflect, Whitney posted another video saying, "I’ve had time to cool off. It was probably in. But calling it a goal on the ice will never make sense to me."

Why Did The Officials Call It In?

Fans can argue it was in. They're probably not wrong. Still, there has to be definitive proof, which didn't exist, and no official, if tied to a lie detector, can honestly claim they saw the puck cross. That's where the Oilers should take issue.

"The issue I have with this is I don't understand how you can say that puck is completely crossing the goal line. There's no official behind the net there," said the Hockey Central Panel after the game. 

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman noted on the broadcast that the NHL war room didn't have any additional footage that the network or fans hadn't seen. The goal was called good because there wasn't enough evidence to suggest the officials call on the ice was wrong. That's a rule everyone knows exists. Fair enough. What the Oilers should be upset about is how the officials, who had no way of actually seeing the puck over the goal line, decided that it crossed. 

Friedman posted, "Apropos of nothing: no idea how they could call it a goal on the ice...no official was behind the net."

Jonny Lazerus posted what many are thinking: "It’s easy to guess that it completely crossed the goal line, but there’s definitely no way you can tell for sure based on Jarry’s skate."

"You never want to be on that side of it, and it's tough to lose that way. Tough to have the indecision of that, but I guess that's the way it goes. I wish it could've went the other way," said Tristan Jarry after the loss.

Jarry played extremely well, given he was called upon to start the game after weeks of sitting on the sidelines. 

Head coach Kris Knoblauch said, "They call it a goal. You know, it's very close and often, and I've seen it before, where I've seen the past with thought goals have gone in and they haven't been able to prove them, so I thought that's what the call was going to be, but obviously they thought it was and just thought otherwise." He added that he was never given an explanation about how the officials were able to determine on the ice that the puck crossed. 

Oilers Put Themselves in This Position

At the end of the day, the call doesn't make sense. However, there are bigger problems for the Oilers, stemming from the fact their play throughout this series has put them in a tough spot. Now on the brink of elimination, when all is said and done, if the Oilers don't advance, it won't be because of a strange call in overtime of Game 4. 

Edmonton has been outplayed by Anaheim. The Oilers have had multiple leads in this series and have not been able to hold them. Up 2-0 again in Game 4, Edmonton let the Ducks tie it. The Oilers took a 3-2 lead, then the Ducks tied it again. It's been a common theme, as has the team's poor play on defense and refusal to keep the game simple. 

Tristan Jarry confused by OT goal call. Credit: Corinne Votaw-Imagn Images
Tristan Jarry confused by OT goal call. Credit: Corinne Votaw-Imagn Images

Now, the Oilers have to claw back. They've dug a hole and to get out, they'll need better play from their stars, most of whom are hurt or dealing with something. 

Connor McDavid doesn't look right. Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman are still clearly impacted by lingering issues. Jason Dickinson was back in, but he's not whole. These aren't excuses. What they are is the reality of Edmonton's situation. 

A team that was a heavy favorite coming into this series took the Ducks lightly. The Oilers forgot what style of game led them to a solid record over the last 10 games of the season and they've let a young team playing with house money run their show. As a result, they're backed into a corner and calls like the one is overtime on Sunday night could mean the end of their season. 

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Could Detroit Target Ottawa's Brady Tkachuk?

After a cinematic gold medal victory by the United States at this year's Winter Olympics, some of the players from the historic American team have returned to their respective clubs with a newfound appreciation for what it means to win big games. 

Among them is Connor Hellebuyck, whose standout performance backstopped the United States to Olympic gold. Now back with the Winnipeg Jets, the veteran goaltender has made it clear that individual accolades and regular season consistency are no longer enough.

With limited year-over-year progress from Winnipeg, Hellebuyck has made it quite clear that his sights are firmly set on capturing a Stanley Cup.

A similar mindset may be taking hold in Ottawa with Senators captain Brady Tkachuk, a fellow member of the gold medal-winning squad, who is coming off a disappointing playoff exit after the team was swept by the Carolina Hurricanes. The early elimination has only intensified questions about the Senators’ trajectory and whether their core can take the next step.

Tkachuk, 26, still has two years remaining on his contract with an $8.2 million cap hit. Given his age and leadership role, it remains plausible that he stays committed to Ottawa’s long-term plan. However, the lack of tangible improvement could eventually force a reevaluation, especially for a player who has now experienced championship success on the international stage.

Speculation around Tkachuk’s future has already begun to surface. NHL insider David Pagnotta said during an appearance on Leafs Morning Take that Ottawa is expected to at least listen to inquiries this offseason, noting there is “an understanding that they’re gonna at least explore the conversation this summer with other teams.”

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If the Senators do entertain offers, one potential suitor could be the Detroit Red Wings. Detroit has been searching for a physical, high-impact forward who can complement its young core, and Tkachuk fits that mold. Known for his blend of grit and offensive production, typically ranging between 60 and 80 points per season, he could provide an immediate boost to the Red Wings’ lineup.

Tkachuk’s contract situation could also appeal to Detroit with his two season window giving the Red Wings to build a competitive roster around him and potentially persuade him to commit long term. 

It's unlikely the Senators move off of their captain but if Detroit General Manager Steve Yzerman is looking to make a splash deal this off-season, they could shock everyone and make a move for a player like Tkachuk. 

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Can Flyers finish off Penguins with another road win?

Can Flyers finish off Penguins with another road win? originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

PITTSBURGH — The Flyers on Monday night have their second crack at trying to close out the Penguins in this best-of-seven first-round playoff series.

They were unable to sweep Pittsburgh two nights ago as they lost, 4-2, at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

Now the series has shifted back to PPG Paints Arena for Game 5.

“We knew we weren’t going to win them all,” Owen Tippett said Sunday. “That was our first chance to close them out. We’re still in a really good position. It’s good that we had that game, to kind of feel that pressure a little bit.”

The Penguins own a ton of experience. Five of their players have at least one Stanley Cup title. The Flyers came into the series with 13 first-timers in the playoffs on their roster.

“You can tell, experience means a lot in certain things,” Rick Tocchet said Sunday. “I think last game, we lacked a little bit of experience in certain situations. But that’s what you can learn from, that’s why you’re in the fight and you get to do it again and again. I think that playing those type of games and then learning from it is huge for our young guys.”

Tocchet’s club won Games 1 and 2 at PPG Paints Arena. It’ll try to win one more there in Game 5.

Puck drop is scheduled for around 7 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Philadelphia. Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. ET with Flyers Pregame Live.

Here is some recommended reading.

• Michkov may sit for Game 5 as Flyers’ practice shows Bump could enter lineup

• No sweep for Flyers as rally falls short, series shifts back to Pittsburgh

• Vladar good to go as Flyers’ starter vs. Penguins in Game 4

• Tocchet knows Flyers will have to ‘stick a fork’ in pedigree-laden Penguins

• ‘We had a lot of fun’ — Flyers make a playoff memory in ‘tight’ penalty box

• Playoffs return to Philly with a bang as Flyers take stranglehold of Penguins

• Banged up and bloodied, Tippett gives Flyers tough home run hitter in playoffs

• Flyers rip off two road wins to open playoffs, put Penguins on their heels

• Dvorak ‘fits in everywhere’ with Flyers, a team he believed could make playoffs

• Big third period, strong defensive effort propel Flyers to Game 1 win over Penguins

• Flyers start playoffs with sweet new shirt that ‘says a lot’

• Get Crosby ‘in the ditches,’ Michkov’s role and more Flyers vs. Penguins thoughts

• Outside doubt motivated Flyers, but so did Briere’s undisclosed message

• NHL announces Flyers vs. Penguins playoff schedule for first-round matchup

• Flyers are going back to playoffs in unforgettable fashion

Here are some updates and visuals from Monday and the last few days.

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By The Numbers: Jets Scoring Breakdown Reveals Elite Point Shot Production

The Winnipeg Jets scored 229 goals during the regular season, finishing 26th in the NHL, and a closer look at how those goals were generated shows a team with defined strengths but also clear offensive gaps.

At even strength, Winnipeg produced 163 of its 229 goals, with 155 coming at five on five, a mark that ranked 22nd league wide. Special teams did little to elevate that output with the Jets scoring 42 power play goals, tying for 24th in the NHL alongside the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Forward Gabe Vilardi led the team with 13 goals on the man advantage, tying him with several players, including Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers, for 12th most in the league.

The Jets added 24 goals in other situations, including 13 empty netters, five with the extra attacker, five while shorthanded at four on five, and one via a penalty shot.

A deeper dive into Winnipeg’s scoring methods highlights a mixed offensive identity. The team was fairly effective with wrist shots, scoring 103 goals in that category, ranking 15th in the NHL. That total placed them ahead of playoff contenders such as the Tampa Bay Lightning, Dallas Stars, Carolina Hurricanes and the Montreal Canadiens. Star forward Kyle Connor led the way with 19 wrist shot goals.

In contrast, Winnipeg struggled to generate offense from snap shots as they finished with just 41 goals, the third lowest total in the league. Connor again led the team with nine, but the gap compared to top teams was significant. Montreal led the NHL with 133 snap shot goals, more than three times Winnipeg’s output.

Despite becoming less common across the league, the slap shot proved to be a strength. Winnipeg recorded 30 goals off slap shots, tying for the fifth-highest total in the NHL alongside the Presidents’ Trophy winning Colorado Avalanche. Defenseman Josh Morrissey led the Jets with seven goals coming off clappers.

Backhand scoring was also a bright spot for the Jets, as they totaled 26 backhand goals, ranking ninth in the league and again matching Colorado’s production. Surprisingly, depth forward Morgan Barron led the team with five backhand goals.

Elsewhere, Winnipeg’s production was closer to league average with tip in goals at 21 on the season, tying for 16th-most. However, deflections were an area of concern as Winnipeg managed just four deflection goals, tying for 25th in the NHL, well behind the league leaders, the New York Rangers and Nashville Predators, who each had 13.

The Jets also registered a rare wraparound goal this season, with Cole Koepke among a small group of players league wide to score in that fashion. Winnipeg did not score on a poke check, a batted puck, or a through the legs attempt.

As the organization looks ahead, improving offensive variety will be a key objective. Increasing production from snap shots and generating more opportunities around the crease could help the Jets become a more balanced scoring team and strengthen their chances of returning to the playoffs.

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Former Canucks In 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Kuzmenko And The Kings Fall In The First Round To The Colorado Avalanche

For the fifth consecutive season, the Los Angeles Kings have been eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the first round. While their past four matchups have all been against the Edmonton Oilers, this time around, it was the Colorado Avalanche who dealt the final blow to Los Angeles, eliminating former Vancouver Canucks forward Andrei Kuzmenko. 

The Kings kept things tight towards the start of the series, playing their heavy-forecheck style well and keeping Game 1 and 2’s scores separated by only one goal. In Game 3, Colorado managed to break through Kings goaltender Anton Forsberg by putting four past him compared to Los Angeles’ two goals. Colorado got off to an early lead, doubling-up by the end of the second period and then scoring three in the third to put the game out of reach for Los Angeles. 

Kuzmenko missed the final couple of months of the regular season due to a knee injury, but made his 2026 Stanley Cup Playoff debut on April 23. In his previous post-season with the Kings, Kuzmenko scored three goals and three assists in six games for Los Angeles. 

While not a player, another former Canuck has seen his 2025–26 playoff campaign end with Los Angeles’ elimination. Once an Assistant Coach for the Canucks on two separate occasions — from 2010 to 2013 and 2017 to 2021 — Kings Assistant Coach Newell Brown has also lost in the first-round for his second-consecutive season. Brown has been with Los Angeles since the 2024–25 season but has also previously worked in the same role for the Anaheim Ducks, Arizona Coyotes, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Chicago Blackhawks. 

Having eliminated the Kings, Colorado will now advance to the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where they will face the winner of the Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild’s series. Regardless of which team wins, the Avalanche will face yet another former Canuck, with Tyler Myers and Casey DeSmith on the Stars and Quinn Hughes on the Wild. 

Apr 23, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) is defended by Los Angeles Kings defenseman Brian Dumoulin (2) and left wing Andrei Kuzmenko (96) during the third period of game three of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Apr 23, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon (29) is defended by Los Angeles Kings defenseman Brian Dumoulin (2) and left wing Andrei Kuzmenko (96) during the third period of game three of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Make sure you bookmark THN's Vancouver Canucks site and add us to your favourites on Google News for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more. Also, don't forget to leave a comment at the bottom of the page and engage with other passionate fans through our forum. This article originally appeared on The Hockey News.

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Ducks-Oilers NHL playoff game ends in wild goal controversy: ‘Worst call’

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Tristan Jarry #35 of the Edmonton Oilers looks on as a shot by Ryan Poehling #25 of the Anaheim Ducks trickles over the line during the overtime period of Game Four of the First Round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center on April 26, 2026 in Anaheim, California. The goal was confirmed in an officials review, Image 2 shows The Ducks react after Ryan Poehling scored what was eventually ruled the game-winning goal, Image 3 shows The Ducks react after Ryan Poehling scored what was eventually ruled the game-winning goal
Ducks beat Oilers

Did it cross the line? We may never know — but what is certain is that the Oilers season is now on the brink.

The Ducks’ Ryan Poehling scored 2:29 into overtime after his sharp-angle shot hit an Edmonton skate in front and reluctantly trickled under goalie Tristan Jarry for a 4-3 Anaheim victory.

The refs officials made no call on the ice before huddling and ruling it a goal. An extensive video review revealed no reason to overturn the judgment on the ice that the puck had barely crossed the goal line underneath Jarry’s skate.

The puck was partially blocked out on the overhead angle by the goaltender’s skate, making it impossible to tell if it had fully crossed the line.

The puck is behind Oilers goalie Tristan Jarry and ruled a goal by officials. Getty Images

Poehling celebrated immediately, even though he wasn’t totally sure the game was over.

“I thought I saw some white (between the puck and the goal line) when I was behind the net,” Poehling said. “Then everyone was celebrating. Did it go in? I’m like, ‘I think so?’ But yeah, I thought so right away.”

Not all would agree with the Poehiling.

Longtime NHL player Ryan Whitney fumed in a video on X about the controversy.

Warning: Graphic Language

“Bulls—t. This is bulls—t,” Whitney, who hosts the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast on Barstool. “This is a scam, you do not see the puck across the line… I don’t know how it was called a goal on the ice. Nobody can see anything and the replay doesn’t show the puck go over the line all the way.

“I feel like I’m taking crazy pills… This is a disgrace to the National Hockey League. This is the worst call I’ve ever seen in an NHL playoff game.”

Oiler coach Kris Knoblauch felt similarly, even if it didn’t quite use as strong as language as Whitney.

The Ducks react after Ryan Poehling scored what was eventually ruled the game-winning goal. AP

“I can’t see it going in,” Knoblauch said. “I can’t see the line. … The (initial) goal call on the ice was probably about 60 to 90 seconds after (the shot), maybe even more. They huddled when they got to center ice, and then they made the (initial) call that it was a good goal. I don’t know. Wasn’t very definitive.”

The Ducks now lead the first-round series 3-1 with Game 5 back in Edmonton on Tuesday night.

Jeffrey Viel tied it with 6:29 left in regulation for the Ducks, who rallied from an early two-goal deficit and another third-period hole with their third consecutive victory over the back-to-back Western Conference champion Oilers.

The Ducks completed their NHL-best 10th multi-goal comeback of the season when Poehling’s sharp-angled shot hit an Edmonton skate in front and reluctantly trickled under goalie Tristan Jarry, who had played well in his first playoff start for his new team.

Tristan Jarry’s skate blocks the overhead view. TSN/X

Cutter Gauthier and Mikael Granlund scored power-play goals in the second period for the Ducks, who have scored 20 goals in four games to begin their team’s first Stanley Cup playoff series in eight years. Lukas Dostal stopped 24 shots and made a pair of spectacular saves on Connor McDavid in the final minutes.

“We’re just playing so connected right now, and we’re doing a good job of doing the right things,” said Anaheim defenseman Jackson LaCombe, who leads the NHL in postseason scoring with eight points after recording two assists in Game 4. “We’re all just feeling great, and I think we’re all competing to the best of our ability, and it’s just paying off right now.”

Evan Bouchard scored a tiebreaking goal early in the third period and Jarry made 34 saves for the Oilers. Kasperi Kapanen and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins scored first-period goals.

Edmonton nearly won it late in regulation, but Dostal made a sprawling pad save to deny McDavid on a late breakaway — and Dostal added another big stuff of McDavid in the final minute. The Oilers’ superstar center, who is suspected to be dealing with an injury, had two assists in Game 4.

Jarry struggled for Edmonton right after arriving in a midseason trade with Pittsburgh, losing his job to Connor Ingram. But with the Oilers struggling mightily to stop the fast, exciting Ducks, Knoblauch made the switch for Game 4 and got a solid effort from Jarry, who hadn’t played since April 8.

The Oilers also improved their defensive structure after a shambolic Game 3 – and yet the energetic, hungry Ducks still pumped in four more goals despite never leading.

The Ducks celebrate the Game 4 win. Getty Images

Kapanen silenced the raucous sellout crowd at Honda Center 38 seconds after the opening faceoff with his fourth goal in four games. Nugent-Hopkins then scored just Edmonton’s second power-play goal of the series.

The Ducks began yet another comeback with a vicious wrist shot from Gauthier, their 22-year-old top scorer. Anaheim’s once-awful power play has scored in eight consecutive games.

Granlund and Leo Carlsson then teamed up for a fluid give-and-go to tie it.

Bouchard ripped a wrist shot for a tiebreaking goal just 4 seconds into an Oilers power play, but the Ducks’ fourth line tied it again, with Viel punching home a rebound of John Carlson’s shot for his second career playoff goal.

— With AP

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Ex-Flyers Forward Having Big Postseason After Trade

It is no secret that the Philadelphia Flyers' decision to trade for Trevor Zegras was a fantastic one. The 25-year-old forward had a strong first regular season with the Flyers in 2025-26, setting new career highs with 26 goals and 67 points in 81 games. He has also made a big impact for the Flyers so far this postseason, recording one goal and four points in four games. 

While the Flyers have benefited by bringing in Zegras, the Anaheim Ducks have also gotten good value from Ryan Poehling from the trade. In 75 regular-season games during his first season with the Ducks, he scored 11 goals and set new career highs with 25 assists and 36 points. With numbers like these, he has been a solid part of the Ducks' forward group since being traded by the Flyers. 

However, Poehling has been notably stepping up his game for the Ducks during the playoffs so far. 

In four playoff games this spring for the Ducks, Poehling has three goals and a plus-2 rating. This included him putting together a two-goal game against the Edmonton Oilers on April 22. He also scored the Ducks' overtime winner against Edmonton in Game 4, giving Anaheim a 3-1 series lead. 

With this, it is clear that Poehling is having a very good start to the playoffs for the Ducks. It will be interesting to see if the former Flyers forward can continue to be a difference-maker for Anaheim from here. 

In 145 games over two seasons with the Flyers, Poehling had 23 goals, 36 assists, and 59 points. 

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Canadiens Make Significant Roster Move With Top Prospect

The Montreal Canadiens have announced that they have assigned defenseman David Reinbacher to their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Laval Rocket. 

Reinbacher had been with the NHL club but did not make an appearance during their ongoing first-round playoff series against the Tampa Bay Lightning. He did play in his first two NHL regular-season games to round off the campaign, though, where he had one assist. 

Down in the AHL this regular season, Reinbacher had five goals, 19 assists, 24 points, 56 penalty minutes, and a plus-18 rating. It was the most amount of games Reinbacher has played since starting his AHL career in 2023-24, which was certainly good to see. 

Reinbacher will now be looking to make a big impact for the Laval Rocket during their playoff run. The 2023 fifth-overall pick is a huge part of the Canadiens' prospect pool, and he should get more chances at the NHL level next season with the Habs. 

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Recap: Bruins on the brink of elimination after Game 4 blowout

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 26: Members of the Boston Bruins look on from the bench during the third period of Game Four of the First Round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at TD Garden on April 26, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Sabres defeat the Bruins 6-1. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) | Getty Images

After a tightly played Game 3, where the Bruins could point to missed opportunities as the difference between a win and a loss, fans hoped to see a little more jump on offense and a little more finish in Game 4.

Instead, the Bruins turned in one of the more calamitous defensive performances in recent memory and got absolutely pummeled by Buffalo, losing Game 4 by a score of 6-1.

The Bruins were booed off the ice at the end of a first period that saw them allow four goals, including three within a span of less than five minutes.

It was, in a word, an embarrassing effort from just about everyone wearing a Bruins jersey or standing behind the Bruins bench.

The B’s ultimately trailed 6-0, only for Sean Kuraly to score the team’s only goal with 40 seconds left in the third period.

The Bruins melted down further down the stretch, with Nikita Zadorov getting five-and-a-game for cross-checking Rasmus Dahlin, potentially earning himself supplemental discipline in the process.

If you enjoy watching horror movies, here are your highlights:

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The B’s will have to win in Buffalo on Tuesday night in order to extend their season, though fans could be forgiven for being hesitant to coming back out after Sunday’s debacle.

Bruins lose, 6-1.

Game notes

  • This game was a horror show for the Bruins, just about from the opening face-off. They came out flat, with Buffalo outshooting them 3-0 in the first couple minutes of the game, then the wheels fell off. To me, the game was reminiscent of the B’s more recent playoff loss to Florida, where they spent the majority of the series looking like they were playing on half speed and ended up completely overwhelmed.
  • Perhaps the most frustrating part is that the B’s first period meltdown was almost entirely self-inflicted. The first goal was a calamity of errors: Charlie McAvoy and Jonathan Aspirate couldn’t complete a 15-foot pass. Fraser Minten tried to carry the puck back into the defensive zone instead of just chipping it out. Buffalo scores ten seconds later. They compounded that by taking a too many men on the ice penalty a couple minutes later, then gave up a goal just after that power play expired when Hampus Lindholm failed to clear the zone. It was mistake after mistake after mistake.
  • To compound matters, the Bruins showed pretty much no push-back the entire game. It wasn’t until just about the end of the second period, when the B’s were given a power play opportunity down 4-0, that they showed a little jump on offense; predictably, it didn’t lead to a goal.
  • Jeremy Swayman was pulled after allowing six goals, the vast majority of which (if not all) can be placed squarely on the shoulders of the team in front of him. He could be seen barking at the bench on his way down the tunnel as frustration boiled over.
  • You could make an argument that Swayman should have been mercy-pulled earlier than that, given the way the team was playing, but Marco Sturm failed to really pull any of the right levers yesterday.
  • Viktor Arvidsson left the game with an upper-body injury after skating just over three minutes. He didn’t return, and his status for Tuesday is in doubt.
  • I’d imagine Sturm makes another swap on the third line in Game 5, as Lukas Reichel wasn’t the solution. I don’t mean to call him out directly for any real reason, but he ended up with no shots, blocks, hits, etc., so we’ll likely see Mikey Eyssimont or Alex Steeves tomorrow.

Games like this certainly take the proverbial wind out of your sails, but hey, there’s still another game to enjoy!

Game 5 will be back in Buffalo on Tuesday night, with a 7:30 start.

Get stoked!

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Blackhawks Goalie Should Keep Getting Better Next Season

Chicago Blackhawks goalie Spencer Knight had a solid 2024-25 season. In 55 games on the year, he had a .902 save percentage, 2.82 goals-against average, and three shutouts. With numbers like these, he showed that he is capable of being a solid starting goaltender in the NHL.

Yet, with Knight still being only 25 years old, the possibility of him hitting a new level with the Blackhawks next season should not be ruled out. The Darien, Connecticut native has high potential, and he could take that next step now that he has gained more experience as a true No. 1 goaltender for the Blackhawks.

Goaltenders can take a longer to develop at the NHL level, so it would not be particularly surprising if we see Knight improve next season. He has already shown plenty of promise with Chicago, and if the Blackhawks' defense improves in front of him, he could have a big year in 2026-27. 

It will be interesting to see what kind of campaign Knight has for the Blackhawks next season, but there is plenty to be optimistic about when it comes to his game. 

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DitD & Open Post – 4/27/26: Mending Fences Edition

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - APRIL 02: Dougie Hamilton #7 of the New Jersey Devils celebrates his goal with teammates on the bench during the first period against the Washington Capitals at Prudential Center on April 02, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Here are your links for today:

Devils Links

“Given the importance of stacking undervalued players and making every dollar count in the cap world, there are a few guys on the Devils who stand out as bets Mehta will not want to make. Let’s take a closer look.” [Infernal Access ($)]

“Dougie Hamilton is still the New Jersey Devils’ best defenseman. They need to mend fences and get him back in the fold for 2026-27.” [Devils on the Rush]

“Sunny Mehta is the New Jersey Devils’ newest GM, a position he himself dreamed of as a kid. It’s a dream come true for many of us as well, with a data-driven, calculated individual at the helm who has a back-to-back Stanley Cup-winning pedigree to boot. Of course, there are certainly some lessons he likely learned or integrated with the Panthers during his five years there, and, as such, I certainly hope he brings those with him to his new organization.” [Devils’ Advocates]

Hockey Links

The Hurricanes and Avalanche advance:

Anze Kopitar heads to retirement:

What does the future hold for Brady Tkachuk in Ottawa? “…He was a major disappointment this series. Tkachuk is now two years away from unrestricted free agency. His future and the chatter around him will hang over the team until he’s signed to an extension, is traded or walks away from the nation’s capital. Next season could even be a last dance of sorts for this core.” [Sportsnet]

A scary moment for Nils Lundkvist the other night:

PWHL expansion is coming:

Feel free to discuss these and any other hockey-related stories in the comments below.

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Game Preview: Philadelphia Flyers @ Pittsburgh Penguins , Round 1 Game 5, 4/27/2026

PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 20: Dan Vladar #80 of the Philadelphia Flyers eyes the puck against Connor Dewar #19 of the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game Two of the First Round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at PPG PAINTS Arena on April 20, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

Who: Philadelphia Flyers (3-1) @ Pittsburgh Penguins (1-3) in Game 5 of the best of seven series

When: 7:00 p.m. ET

How to Watch: Locally broadcast on Sportsnet Pittsburgh and NBC Sports Philadelphia, nationally on ESPN, streaming on ESPN+

Pens’ Path Ahead: The Penguins are fighting to make sure they have a path ahead. That would be a Game 6, back in Philadelphia on Wednesday night if Pittsburgh wins today to extend the series.

Opponent Track: The Flyers are up 3-1 in the series and looking to close out and move onto next round against the Carolina Hurricanes. Carolina wrapped up a sweep of Ottawa on Saturday and now sits back to await the PIT/PHI winner in the next round.

Hidden Stat: From Pens PR, Arturs Silovs (28 saves in Game 4) became the second goaltender in franchise history to make his Penguins playoff debut in an elimination contest and earn a win, following Frank Pietrangelo (Game 6 of 1991 division semifinals). 

Hidden Stat 2.0: By my count the Penguins are 11-13 in the Sidney Crosby era when facing elimination in the playoffs (11-12 in the games Crosby has played, 0-1 when he hasn’t in 2011 vs TB). The Pens have won two games in the same series when facing elimination on three occasions (2009 vs DET, 2012 vs PHI, 2016 vs TB).

Getting to know the Flyers

Projected lines

FORWARDS

Travis Konecny – Christian Dvorak – Porter Martone

Denver Barkey – Trevor Zegras – Owen Tippett

Alex Bump – Noah Cates – Tyson Foerster

Luke Glendening – Sean Couturier – Garnet Hathaway

DEFENSEMEN

Travis Sanheim / Rasmus Ristolainen

Cam York / Jamie Drysdale

Nick Seeler / Noah Juulsen

Goalies: Dan Vladar and Samuel Ersson

Potential scratches: Matvei Michkov, Garrett Wilson, Carl Grundstrom, Emil Andrae, Helge Grans, David Jiricek, Oscar Eklind, Oliver Bonk, Hunter McDonald, Jacob Gaucher, Aleksei Kolosov, Carson Bjarnason

Injured Reserve: Rodrigo Abols (fractured ankle), Nikita Grebenkin (upper body)

  • It looks like there is going to be a lineup change among forwards for the Flyers for the first time in this series. Michkov is going out and Alex Bump is headed in to make his NHL playoff debut, based on a practice the Flyers held yesterday before traveling to Pittsburgh.
  • Michkov hasn’t done much of anything (no points, four shots on goal and barely averaging above 10 minutes per game) but was Philadelphia’s fourth highest scorer with 51 points in the regular season. Removing him would take some skill out of their lineup, even though he hasn’t been able to get much of anything going as it was.
  • There was another change in the middle lines with Barkey and Foerster trading spots. Barkey scored a goal in Game 4 on a nice setup from Zegras, it looks like the Flyers will be wanting to see them play together.
  • Updated the scratch list for the Flyers, with their AHL affiliate didn’t qualify for the playoffs they have quite the taxi squad of young players sticking around.

And now for the Pens

Projected lines 

FORWARDS

Rickard Rakell – Sidney Crosby – Bryan Rust

Egor Chinakhov – Tommy Novak – Evgeni Malkin

Elmer Soderblom – Ben Kindel – Anthony Mantha

Connor Dewar – Blake Lizotte – Noel Acciari

DEFENSEMEN

Parker Wotherspoon / Erik Karlsson

Sam Girard / Kris Letang

Ryan Shea / Ilya Solovyov

Goalies:  Arturs Silovs and Stuart Skinner

Potential Scratches: Connor Clifton, Justin Brazeau, Kevin Hayes, Ryan Graves, Jack St. Ivany, Sergei Murashov

IR: Filip Hallander, Caleb Jones (season-ending shoulder surgery)

  • The Penguins did not have practice yesterday while traveling back home. That probably means there will be a well-attended gameday skate this morning for the club where we’ll see what, if any, changes happen from last game. Being as it was a win, the status quo sounds like the play at this point.
  • We updated the Penguin scratch list as well, technically Murashov is up with the NHL roster right now to serve as an informal emergency third goalie. It’s expected he’ll be assigned back to the AHL by the time WBS’s series kicks off on Thursday against Hershey, assuming the NHL Penguins are still alive and kicking by that point.
  • Crazy good stat about Letang being the first Penguin defenseman to register a playoff GWG in an elimination game since Darius Kasparaitis ‘sniped’ Dominik Hasek in the 2001 series against Buffalo. Wild last game was the first time since back then given all the playoff games played in the Crosby era, though from the hidden stat above there were ‘only’ 10 GWG’s when facing elimination prior to Letang’s goal on Saturday.

Multi-point monsters

Evgeni Malkin had a two-point night in Game 1 to tie Joe Sakic for seventh all-time in NHL playoff history multi-point games. Sidney Crosby still sits solidly in third place after his multi-point last outing in Game 3.

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Former Flyers Goalie Is Dominating Right Now

The Buffalo Sabres currently have a 3-1 series lead over the Boston Bruins in their first-round playoff series. The Sabres have won each of their last two games to take this commanding lead, and perhaps the biggest reason for it has been the play of former Philadelphia Flyers goalie Alex Lyon.

After Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen started each of the first two games of the series, the Sabres switched to Lyon for Games 3 and 4. This decision has paid off big time, as Lyon has been outstanding for Buffalo since taking over the crease. 

In Game 3 against the Bruins, Lyon stopped 24 out of 25 Bruins shots he faced in Buffalo's win. Then, in Game 4, he made 23 saves on 24 shots against Boston.

With his excellent play, Lyon now has a 2-0 record, a .964 save percentage, and a 0.89 goals-against average this postseason. With numbers like these, he has helped the Sabres grab complete control of their series against the Bruins, and they now have a great chance of making it to the second round because of it. 

In 36 regular-season games this season with the Sabres, Lyon had a 20-10-4 record, a .907 save percentage, a 2.77 goals-against average, and three shutouts. With this, the former Flyers goalie has been a very good pickup for the Sabres. 

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NHL Playoffs: Sweeps, OTs and more

His hand-picked assistant is gone now, too. | Getty Images

The NHL playoffs are just over a week old and two teams are already gone. In both cases, the conference winners knocked off the last seed/second wild card team, with Carolina sweeping the Ottawa Senators and the Colorado Avalanche sweeping the Los Angeles Kings.

Neither of those two are surprising, so thankfully the other series are living up to their billing. On Sunday:

Add to those two of the series that continue tonight:

  • Utah tries to go up by two games on Vegas
  • The Penguins, who dodged a sweep in Game 4 on Saturday, return home to try to extend the series and turn up the heat on the Flyers.

Not featured tonight is the Battle for North Stars Heritage, where Dallas and Minnesota are tied at 2-2.

Meanwhile:

  • An Islanders note: Photos of season ticket holders painting the ice after the finale. [Isles]
  • And Patrick Roy’s assistant Benoit Desrosiers will not return. [THN]
  • For the Senators…another first-round exit in a long rebuild has people wondering how far away they are. [Athletic]
  • Matt Boldy is becoming a superstar. [Sportsnet]