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NHL Playoff Observations -- Sunday

Just a few things that caught my eye ...

  • Kevin Klein's on-his-back, twist pass was a little bit Alexander Ovechkin and a little bit Bobby Orr, too. He won't repeat the feat, but it just shows how well Nashville drafts defenders.
  • The only Flyer who showed up ready to play in the first period? None other than Ilya Bryzgalov -- he was the only reason Philly was only down one goal after 20.
  • Antoine Vermette was miscast as a first-line center in Columbus. But he sure has shown his value in the desert, especially in the face-off circle. And as the team's leading playoff scorer. Go figure.
  • Rostislav Klesla has a face only a mother could love. He is one tough hombre. Can you imagine what he might have become without all those injuries?
  • Kyle Wellwood got the hands; brother Eric Wellwood got the speed and defensive game. Can you imagine if those things came in the same package?
  • It didn't really come as a surprise that Bryzgalov had an adventure in stickhandling early in the game. It did when the normally-brilliant Martin Brodeur flubbed a couple of passing plays that resulted in Flyer goals.
  • So, where has Alexander Radulov been in the first two games? He's soft, lacks intensity and effort, and has been terrible on both sides of the puck. I guess the KHL gives its MVP award to one-dimensional players. Barry Trotz must be ready to smash something.
  • Hands up if you picked Keith Yandle to be the top-scoring blueliner this postseason? I thought not.
  • Speaking of Voracek -- I can't help but wonder if Howson's error wasn't in getting Jeff Carter, but in giving up Voracek. I think Rick Nash missed him a whole lot more than any of us ever imagined.
  • Zach Parise has an unbelievable release. Ryan Suter is a true number one stud. Now, Mike Ilitch threw money at Prince Fielder to chase a pennant -- do you think he'll do the same for these two to get another Cup? He's not getting any younger.
  • Pekka Rinne allowed nine goals in five games against the Red Wings. He has allowed the same number in just two against the so-called lowly Coyotes.