2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 5 Recap

The Blues have never said die all season, and for the first time since 2002, they managed to carry that through to a playoff series victory. The last time the Blues won in the playoffs were the 2002 quarterfinals, where Pavol Demitra led the team to a 4-1 series victory against the Chicago Blackhawks. Tonight? It was Andy McDonald, Jamie Langenbrunner, and David Perron doing the damage.

It doesn't matter that the game was flat through the first period and a half. It doesn't matter that Joe Thornton's shot found the back of the net at 19:19 of the second period. Sure, that would have deflated momentum for most teams, but the Blues came out and plugged on -- and that's what makes them tenacious and special. The work ethic that they showed all season was something unheard of last year, or even at the beginning of this season. The young Blues team might've said "eh, we'll get them in game six." This Blues team used being down by a goal as fuel for some of the most emotion-filled hockey they've played in eons. Jamie Langenbrunner's crash the net goal to tie the game? Created by Scott Nichol and Vladimir Sobotka; crashing the net with abandon, those three plowed through the Sharks defense. Langenbrunner looked ten years younger after the goal with the smile he had on his face.

How appropriate was it that David Perron's tip-in of Alex Pietrangelo's point shot ended the Sharks' season? Just last year, Perron was felled by an unintentional hit by Sharks' captain Joe Thornton. Perron's made a huge comeback this season, and this was gravy.

Speaking of comebacks, Andy McDonald's has been outstanding. His empty-netter was the fourth goal that he's scored in five games. Coupled with Patrik Berglund, the two forwards have had a post-season renaissance that should continue into round two.

Round two's match-up is increasingly looking like it will be against the L.A. Kings. When the second round matchup is released, please check back to SB Nation St. Louis for second round previews galore. Until then, bask in the glow of a playoff series win - one more step towards the ultimate goal.

As David Backes said, "We're not done yet."

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, visit the Blues blog St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL news hub.

Blues Vs. Sharks Final Score: Perron, Langenbrunner, McDonald Give Blues 3-1 Win (VIDEO)

The St. Louis Blues beat the San Jose Sharks 3-1 in the first round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs, after mounting a late, shocking comeback. Trailing 1-0 since late in the second period, the Blues offense suddenly woke up 11:16 into the third period as RW Jamie Langenbrunner knocked a second-chance shot past G Antti Niemi:

Less than 60 seconds later, LW David Perron blasted a long attempt through Sharks defense to put the game at 2-1:

And then, with the Sharks goalie pulled, C Andy McDonald back-handed a decisive shot for a crowd-pleasing empty net goal:

With the win, the Blues advance to the second round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, visit the Blues blog St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 5 Preview

Tonight marks the first time since 2003 that the Blues will be able to close out a playoff series with a win. That year, they blew a 3-1 series lead to the Vancouver Canucks. This season they hope that doesn’t happen against a very frustrated San Jose Sharks club. Once playoff series win every ten years is not a habit that the Blues want to get into, so expect them to come out full-octane tonight. Don’t expect the San Jose Sharks to sit on their laurels, though. They’ve got more than enough playoff experience to know that winning three games in a row, while tough, isn’t exactly un-doable. Game five’ll be at the Scottrade Center tonight, where the Sharks have won one game all season, which was the 3-2 double overtime loss for the Blues. Aside from that, Scottrade has been unfriendly to the Sharks.

The team recognizes the importance of tonight’s game, and the fact that the Sharks probably won’t crumble; in fact, there’s a good possibility that they play their best game of the playoffs tonight. The Blues need to be prepared for that. Thankfully, the locker room has been saying all of the right things, so at least the team’s portraying the outward appearance of humility and intelligence. The absolute last thing that they need to do is forget that the Sharks want to move to the semi-finals just as much as the Blues do.

"We need to realize this next game is going to be the toughest one," forward Andy McDonald said Friday. "If we don't play our best hockey, they're going to beat us."

Coach Ken Hitchcock said the Blues are going to get the Sharks' "'A' game. We know it. We just have to have an 'A-plus' game."

Bingo, and if there’s a coach to get them to that "A-plus game," it’s Ken Hitchcock. He has the entire team playing like old pros, proof positive that the young guns have matured. As much crowing as there’s been about the youth stepping up there game (for example, Patrik Berglund has been a force with three goals and three assists in these four games), the big difference maker is a vet: Andy McDonald. Berglund has benefitted from playing on the Stanley Cup winner’s line for sure, as McDonald has been a factor in every one of his goals. McDonald has three goals, four assists, and is a plus-one in the series, all coming after T.J. Galliardi’s helmet-cracking hit in game two. The Sharks have poked the bear.

To continue their success, the Blues need to keep converting on the power play. McDonald has seen great success there so far this postseason, as have the Blues. They’re tied for second in power play percentage with the Florida Panthers with a 37.5% effectiveness rate. The only team higher is the Philadelphia Flyers, with an absurd 55% effectiveness rate. All the Blues need to do, it looks like, is avoid the penalty box and make sure that the Sharks know exactly where it is.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 5: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

Game 5 is set for Saturday night.

2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Round One: Detroit Red Wings Eliminated By Nashville Predators

For the first time since 2005-2006, the Detroit Red Wings were knocked out of the playoffs in the first round. One of the Blues’ Central Division rivals, who finished third in the division, the Wings were bumped by the second place finisher Nashville Predators.

It’s rare that the Wings are the first team out of the playoffs, and it’s even more rare that they play in the playoffs the way that they did. Key players, such as Nicklas Lidstrom and Tomas Holmstrom were invisible on the ice, and the number of turnovers were disconcerting. Nashville took advantage of this, hopping on turnovers and converting them, especially in game five. Both of the Nashville goals came from unsightly turnovers by the Red Wings. They outscored the Wings 11-4 even strength.

This will be the second season in a row advancing to the second round for the Predators. They had only done so once before: last season, against the Anaheim Ducks. The Preds won both of their games at Joe Louis Arena, one of the toughest places to play in the league. They’re clicking on all cylinders, have a goaltender that is very much unbeatable at times, and can smell any blood in the water faster than a shark (not the Sharks, mind you). The Blues won just one game against them in the regular season, so meeting up against them in the playoffs might be a mountain to climb higher than Lookout Mountain, TN.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Sharks Vs. Blues, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: St. Louis Wins 2-1

The St. Louis Blues added a needed insurance goal early in the third period of their 2-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Thursday night. St. Louis had a 1-0 lead going into the third period and added another goal after that which would prove to be huge after the Sharks landed a last-minute shot in the net.

In the middle of the third period, on the power play following a interference penalty by San Jose's Patrick Marleau, the Blues' Andy McDonald scored the team's second goal of the game:

That was McDonald's third goal of the playoffs already. With the Blues up 2-0, they were able to buckle down on defense and hold out, but the Sharks fought right until the end. With just over a minute remaining, San Jose's Joe Thornton scored a goal with an empty net to cut the lead to 2-1, but St. Louis managed to cut things off from there.

The Blues now hold a 3-1 advantage over the Sharks in the seven-game series. Game 5 is in St. Louis on Saturday, with a potential Game 6 being next week in San Jose.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Sharks Vs. Blues, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: St. Louis Maintains 1-0 Lead After 2nd Period

The St. Louis Blues are holding steady, doing their thing on defense, and now lead 1-0 over the San Jose Sharks through two periods in Game 4 of the seven-game series. Both teams have struggled to score against goaltenders that are saving everything in sight essentially.

Brian Elliott has been superb for St. Louis so far, saving all 16 of the shots that have come his way. San Jose's Antti Niemi made the one mistake in the first period, but otherwise he's saved the other 16 shots that the Blues have sent in his direction.

St. Louis holds a slight advantage in shots on goal, 17-16, with the Blues maintaining the lead with just one period remaining. A victory on Thursday would give St. Louis a 3-1 lead in the series, which would force San Jose to win three consecutive games (including two on the road).

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Sharks Vs. Blues, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: St. Louis Leads 1-0 After 1st Period

The St. Louis Blues lead 1-0 over the San Jose Sharks after one period in Game 4 of the seven-game series between both teams on Thursday night. The Blues are hoping to open up a 3-1 advantage over the Sharks with a victory.

In a tight first period, the Blues struck first with a goal from B.J. Crombeen. Assisted by Patrik Berglund and David Perron, it was his first goal of the postseason:

St. Louis had a 8-7 advantage on shots on goal during the period but failed to put another one in the net. Brian Elliott has been perfect in the net for the Blues so far, saving all eight of the shots that have come his way.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blues Vs. Sharks Game Four Preview: Blues Look To Take Series Back To St. Louis With A 3-1 Lead

It's been an eventful series for the Blues after their game one double overtime loss. Taking game two 3-0 and game three 4-3 has solidified a series lead and a chance to heap it on San Jose for a third game in a row. The Sharks, no strangers to huge losing streaks during the regular season, have been having issues converting on the power play and their penalty kill has been worse than it was during the regular season.

The Blues' power play, however, has been humming along at an unbeatable 38.5% pace. They scored three of their goals Monday night on the one-man advantage and have converted five goals on 13 power play chances. Who's responsible for this power play resurgence? Perhaps it's diminutive, speedy forward Andy McDonald. McDonald has been the Blues' best player on the ice, scoring a goal and two assists in the last game, with two goals and four assists in the three games played in the series.

Also playing excellent hockey has been Patrik Berglund. Berglund scored both of the Blues' goals in game one's 3-2 double-overtime loss, and he scored another one Thursday night. Berglund's benefited from playing on a line with playmaker McDonald, and has flipped the same on-switch that he flipped in last year's World Championships.

Brian Elliott is back in net tonight as Jaroslav Halak is not yet ready to return. Puck drop is a late 9:30, so get those pre-game naps in when you can.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Jaroslav Halak Injury: Halak Skates, But Will Miss Game 4

St. Louis Blues goalie Jaroslav Halak skated with the team during practice on Tuesday and is showing improvement in his ankle, which he injured in Game 2 after a collision with teammate Barrett Jackman, but has been ruled out for Game 4, according to head coach Ken Hitchcock.

The Blues will roll with back up Brian Elliott, who was stellar in the regular season and made 26 saves in St. Louis' 4-3 victory over the San Jose Sharks in Game 3. With the Blues up 2-1, there's no reason for the tema to rush Halak back, especially if Elliott continues to prove himself capable of manning the cage. Elliott will continue to be backed up by minor leaguer Jake Allen.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

St. Louis Blues Vs. Sharks: Alex Pietrangelo Pops Logan Couture (GIF)

There's a certain zen fluidity to this GIF of young St. Louis Blues star Alex Pietrangelo popping the San Jose Sharks' Logan Couture after the buzzer following the Blues' 4-3 Game 3 win Monday night—he just keeps flowing from the top of the frame back to the bottom, like a barber pole bent on getting in one last shot on a hockey player, which might not be my best metaphor ever. Have a look:

I could watch it all day. Which is not to say I haven't been watching it all day already. There's something in the matter-of-factness about it, too; it looks like he was just on his way to pick up some groceries when he saw he could complete two errands at once by also getting this last hit in.

Oh—okay, sorry, I got distracted for a minute. Just kind of watching it, and all. If someone could only loop it so that he walks all the way off screen, and the back again... Yeah, I don't—yeah, you can just let yourself out. I'm going to hang out in front of this a little while long.

Blues Vs. Sharks Final Score: St. Louis Wins Game 3 To Grab 2-1 Series Lead

The St. Louis Blues grabbed a 2-1 series lead over the San Jose Sharks in the opening round of the 2012 NHL playoffs on Monday night at HP Pavilion. The Blues held a 4-1 lead with five minutes remaining, but the Sharks would run off three straight goals to make the Blues sweat. St. Louis would hold on for a 4-3 victory in Game 3 of the best-of-seven series.

The third period's lone goal from the Blues came when Alexander Steen beat Sharks goalie Antti Niemi for a power play goal just one minute into the period. Steen's first goal of the postseason was set up by Andy McDonald.

Just went the game appeared over, San Jose tallied two quick goals. Colin White score his first of the playoffs with four minutes remaining in the third period when he beat Blues goalie Brian Elliot off assists from Ryane Clowe and Joe Thornton. Logan Couture would score with :17 seconds remaining to make it 4-3.

San Jose out-shot St. Louis 29-27 on the night. Andy McDonald, who finished with a goal and two assists, was name the No. 1 star of the night.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blues Vs. Sharks Score Update: St. Louis Leads 3-1 Heading Into 3rd Period

The St. Louis Blues and San Jose Sharks entered the second period tied 1-1, but a pair of second period goals, and some stellar play by goalie Brian Elliott, has St. Louis in position to grab a 2-1 series lead. The Blues lead the Sharks 3-1 with one period left at HP Pavilion.

Andy McDonald scored his second goal of the postseason when he beat Antti Niemi off assists from Patrik Berglund and Carlo Colaiacovo just a minute into the period. Jason Arnott would add a power play score at the midway mark to make it 3-1. Arnott's score was his first of the playoffs and was assisted by McDonald and Alexander Steen.

St. Louis has out-shot San Jose 23-19 in the game. San Jose holds a 34-20 advantage in hits, while the Blues lead 25-23.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blues Vs. Sharks Score Update: 1st Period Ends Tied 1-1

The St. Louis Blues' Game 2 victory was marred by a brawl that officially raised the intensity in the team's opening round playoff series against the San Jose Sharks. After the first period in Game 3, it's safe to say that intensity has carried over. The Sharks and Blues exit the first period at HP Pavilion tied 1-1. The best-of-seven series is tied 1-1.

The game was scoreless for the first 14 minutes until Patrik Berglund beat San Jose goalie Antti Niemi for a power play goal. Berglund's third goal of the series was set up by teammates Carlo Colaiacovo and Jason Arnott. The Sharks would answer with a power play of their own when Brent Burns scored off feeds from Joe Thornton and Logan Couture.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Sharks Vs. Blues Game 3 Preview: Will Tensions Flare Up Again?

After the absurd melee that punctuated the final horn of the Blues' 3-0 win Saturday night over the San Jose Sharks, it might be tempting to expect that tonight's game will be just as rough-and-tumble, full of retaliation, vim, and vigor.

Well, this isn't the Penguins/Flyers series, so don't expect too much of a WWE Smackdown environment at the HP Pavillion tonight. Is there irritation? Of course, especially over Valdimir Sobotka's breaking of Dominic Moore's nose and T.J. Galliardi's charge against Andy McDonald that broke his helmet. Unlike the brawl that took place in Sunday's Pens/Flyers game, no suspensions were handed down from any plays in the Blues/Sharks game. Moore was displeased with Sobotka's punch, but didn't feel the need to discuss it, while McDonald said this regarding Galliardi's check that possibly added fuel to the impending fire:

For McDonald, the lack of even an NHL hearing regarding Galiardi's hit, which broke his helmet, had him surprised

"Really surprised," McDonald said. "I had a chance to look at it on video and it's pretty clear that he comes in, he targets the head and not only that, he jumps. I guess I don't understand the rule properly. It's just really disappointing from my perspective, and certainly from players around the league who are hoping that the league is cracking down on head shots."

Roll the dice, Andy. You either get a suspension, or Brendan Shanahan asks for your allowance money back.

Will this impact the game tonight? Chances are good that it won't be a pacifist affair, but both teams have a shot at winning the series, and getting out of control will do neither the Sharks nor the Blues any good. These guys are consummate professionals, and while the occasional questionable play (and short tempers that go with them) might pop up, hijinx like James Neal's and Aaron Asham's won't be seen in San Jose tonight from either team.

It's all about defense, line matching, and making the smart plays, and the Blues have the advantage there. Factor in some hopefully solid goaltending, and tonight won't be a brawl at all -- it'll be a solid, old time, Western Conference hockey game. Make some coffee folks - you'll want to stay up for this one.

For more on this series, stick with SB Nation St. Louis. For more on the St. Louis Blues, visit St. Louis Game Time and for more on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Sharks Vs. Blues Game 3: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The St. Louis Blues and San Jose Sharks pick up their first round series with newfound bad blood dominating the headlines.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks: Jaroslav Halak Out For Game Three

It would make other teams cringe to lose their starter a game and a half into the Stanley Cup playoffs, but the Blues always play with a back-up. No, not a back-up goalie, a back-up starter. Brian Elliott is starting in net again tomorrow night against the San Jose Sharks (9:00, NBCSN) due to Halak's lower body injury sustained in this collision with defenseman Barret Jackman:

Backing up Jackman is Peoria Rivermen goaltender Jake Allen, who hopefully will just be relegated to bench duty while Halak recuperates and Elliott continues to shine.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs: Blues Vs. Sharks Game 2 End Of Game Fight (VIDEO)

Here's the video of the end of the game post whistle scrum. Highlights: Roman Polak and Vladimir Sobotka. Lowlights? The fact that it probably ticked the Sharks off.

Remember: don't make Roman Polak mad. Just file that away for future reference.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 2 Final Score: Blues Get Shutout, Ties Series 1-1

The chippiness of the game didn’t calm down any as the third period chugged onward. T.J. Galliardi has the dubious honor of beginning the gladiatorial melee with this board on Andy McDonald:

The penalty was questionable, as the hit would have looked fine on a taller player (and McDonald shouldn’t’ve been looking downward), but two for boarding was the call.

As physical as the period was, especially on the Blues’ part, the Sharks controlled the shot total 9-6, but the Blues controlled the game. On a 5-on-3 thanks to a double roughing to Dan Boyle, Andy McDonald scored on the third rebound on Niemi.

That is, of course, when all hell broke loose. Lost in the fighting is the fact that this was the Blues’ first playoff win in eight years, but there’s not enough celebrating going on thanks to the after the horn messiness.

Personally, I’ve always been of the belief that you make your point on the scoresheet, not in the penalty column. The solid defense is what won the game for the Blues and tied the series 1-1. That, and improved offense, is what the Blues need to focus on.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 2 Second Period Score: Blues Up 2-0 On David Backes Goal

All of a sudden, this series has gotten chippy. So many scrums, so little time. First, this scrum that came from some net crashage between Kris Russell and Joe Pavelski, which Russell surprisingly came up on top.

Next stop, Vladimir Sobotka crashing the net. Literally.

So far, so physical, right? It took some shrugging off of the physical play to create the Blues second goal. You can try to restrain Oshie, but you can only hope to contain him. Getting through checks and plowing towards the net are Oshie’s specialties; creating plays and setting up goals are a few others.

There was no way that Backes misses that slap shot.

Shots on goal are in the Blues’ favor 27-20, and for tonight so far the effort is paying off. One more period and the Blues get their first playoff game victory since 2004.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 2 First Period Score: Blues Up 1-0 On San Jose Own-Goal

On the scoresheet, this read Vladimir Sobotka, unassisted. It should read Marc-Edouard Vlasic, assisted by Vladimir Sobotka.

Vlasic learned the hard way that you can’t clear a puck and expect it to go where you need it to with a curved blade. While that event caused people to titter, the broken bench fiasco caused Twitter to asplode.

For future reference, broken bench >>> own goal.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 2: Jaroslav Halak Taken Down By Barret Jackman

In an unfortunate turn of events for the Blues, defenseman Barret Jackman collided with Jaroslav Halak in a tough hit that was unavoidable. Jackman dropped for a block, and popped up too quickly to change direction. He slammed into Halak, whiplashing him a bit. Halak laid on the ice for a minute or two, and after a conference with the trainer Halak left the ice.

Brian Elliott came in in relief of Halak, who is presumably being checked for concussion symptoms. Putting in Elliott isn’t a detriment for the Blues, so breathe easy, fans.

St. Louis Blues Bench Broken Vs. Sharks, Causing Delay; Stanley Cup Playoffs Simply Too Intense

The St. Louis Blues had just taken a 1-0 lead in Game 2 of their playoffs matchup with the San Jose Sharks when the unthinkable happened—well, maybe not the unthinkable so much as the why-would-you-thinkable. Their bench broke, causing a delay while the old one was carried away and the new one installed. Bernie Miklasz: Incredulous.

The Blues' bench is broken. That's the reason for the delay. Seriously.

— Bernie Miklasz (@miklasz) April 14, 2012

Mercury News columnist Mark Purdy: Successfully deploying a joke:

I always thought the Blues' bench might be one of their weaknesses.

— Mark Purdy (@MercPurdy) April 14, 2012

And that's really all there is to say about this bizarre footnote: It happened, and it's bizarre, and there are some good jokes on Twitter, if you're willing to leave "Blues bench" open on Twitter until it forms an ersatz Jay Leno monologue.

Now, presumably, with the furniture question settled, we can get back to the hockey-based portion of our evening's entertainment. Follow along here on our St. Louis Blues playoffs storystream with editor Laura Astorian and head on over to St. Louis Game Time for live talk with your fellow Blues fans.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 2 Preview

Game one didn't go the way that the Blues wanted it to, but it wasn't a total failure, either. In fact, it could be basically what a Blues fan would expect: good effort, though not consistent and solid defense for the most part.

It's the "not consistent effort" and "solid defense for the most part" that coach Ken Hitchcock needs to tweak for tonight, and he's doing so through line-up changes. Chris Stewart, who didn't play well in his traditional power forward role and who probably played even worse on the third and fourth lines, will be making a different play tonight - a play for some mustard for the press-box pretzels. Recent line-up returnee Matt D'Agostini will be back in tonight. While noticeably still not in prime form since returning from a concussion, D'Agostini still affords the team a chance that Stewart hasn't been providing: offense. Two goals, both by Patrik Berglund, is not enough to defeat a San Jose Sharks team that has three regular-season 30 goal scorers.

The Sharks didn't necessarily look like a team that has three 30 goals corers, with Martin Havlat being responsible for two of their goals including the game winner. But that's no reason to underestimate them. Goaltender Jaroslav Halak, who had a very solid game one, will be back between the pipes tonight, as well Antti Niemi, who you could argue stole game one for the Sharks.

Defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk, who played 33 minutes Thursday night and who had 11 shots on goal, will be looking for redemption for a non-clear that contributed to the game winning Havlat goal:

"I have my stick on it and it's a play that's got to be made," Shattenkirk said. "That's what these games boil down to, plays like this. It's kind of my first reality check, I guess, and first real taste of playoffs and how one mistake can really come back and bite you."

That shouldn't be what Shattenkirk and the team should be dwelling on, however. They just need to keep up the hits, keep creating the chances, and keep dominating in the faceoff circle and in puck possession. They played an excellent game on Thursday, but let the stress of a double overtime wear them out. The Sharks have been playing great hockey as of late, and the Blues need to reclaim their form. It's do-able, and it has to happen tonight.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks: Chris Stewart Healthy Scratch For Game Two

It's always a tough time when a star player and power forward is plunked down into the pressbox, but that's exactly what's happening with Chris Stewart in game two. After an underwhelming performance in game one in which Darren Pang on FoxSports Midwest as well as the broadcast crew on CNBC constantly tried to defend him (look! his body's in front of the net! WHERE NOTHING HAPPENS!), Ken Hitchcock's apparently had enough. Blues fans've been questioning his placement on the fourth line for a while, and with no where left for him to go they've been calling for him to get a helping of press box pretzels.

That happens tonight, with Stewart and Ryan Reaves the healthy scratches, and Matt D'Agostini and B.J. Crombeen taking their places. Beener replacing Reaves is grit for grit, but D'Agostini replacing Stewart is replacing lack of effort with effort. As coach Ken Hitchcock said (and Blues fans agree with):

Hitch on Stewart: "We need more from him. This is certainly not based on one hockey game. We just need more." #stlblues

— Lou Korac (@lkorac10) April 14, 2012

Stewart's play is not a new phenomenon.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 2: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The San Jose Sharks lead the best-of-seven series against the Blues 1-0, but St. Louis gets a chance even things up on Saturday.

Nyjer Morgan Trolls St. Louis Blues Fans

2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks: San Jose Leads Series 1-0

The St. Louis Blues have some work to do. They battled hard on their home ice but couldn't break through a third time against Antti Niemi, while Jaroslav Halak clinched the 3-2 game one victory for the Sharks with with a slick shot off a pass from Ryane Clowe in the second overtime period to give San Jose an early advantage in the best-of-seven series. Now the Blues have seen the tables turn, as the home-ice advantage has been erased and things become more of an uphill battle than anything.

The staff over at SB Nation's Blues blog, St. Louis Game Time were disappointed in the result, but the key is how the No. 2 seed responds to the hit they absorbed in the first game:

The Blues, I thought, outplayed the Sharks for much of the game and were pretty even with them for the rest of it. Unfortunately, they seemed to forget that Antti Niemi is Antti Niemi. As has been the story all year, they got the majority of the shots, it was just that maybe the quality of shots just wasn't good enough.

Obviously, the sky will be falling for some fans - it's been a long time out of the playoffs for Blues fans, so that Game 1 took on heightened importance in most eyes. But, for the two women I saw crying, it's just one game. The key is how the team responds on Saturday to this disappointment. If they can take in the positives and eliminate the few negatives they did have, they should definitely get Game 2 under control.

Here's a look at that shot once, more if you can stand to bear it:

And here is the remaining schedule for the series. It could be a great one.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks: Sharks Take Game One In Double OT

After a full overtime period, you can’t fault anyone for being tired. Unfortunately, after tonight’s 3-2 two overtime loss, the Blues have a bit to stay awake over. Converting when you have momentum’d be a good place to start. The Blues peppered Antti Niemi with 14 shots the first OT and controlled the pace of the play throughout most of that period.

The Blues could win in shots (and they did, 42-34), but that’s not what wins you games. Unfortunately Niemi was absolutely in the zone tonight, thriving on the work. By the time that the Blues made it to their second OT, they were absolutely pooped, and Martin Havlat’s second goal of the night found its way past a slowed Jaroslav Halak for the win.

No one expected the Blues to sweep in the first round, and losing one game isn’t the end of the world. There was a lot of good to take away from that, especially the fact that the Sharks could have the pace of the game dictated to them. If Niemi is off his game on Saturday night, the Blues could exploit him. If he’s not, well, look for another two OT game. Thank goodness it’s on a Saturday.

Blues Vs. Sharks Game One: Third Period Score: Berglund Scores Twice, Game Goes To OT Tied 2-2

There’s a member of the St. Louis Blues who wants to win this game, and that’s Patrik Berglund. The big Swede scored both of the Blues’ goals in the period, and he did it the best way that he knows how — positioning in front of the net.

He scored his first goal to tie the game just 54 seconds in on a tip-in of a Kevin Shattenkirk shot:

His next goal exploited the Sharks’ questionable penalty kill, but the set-up was all Andy McDonald . The little waterbug has been all over the ice tonight, attempting to put the team on his back. It’s a little heavy, so he handed it off to Berglund:

Unfortunately, the 2-1 lead was not to last. With just over five minutes left, Andrew Desjardins snapped it past Halak:

A bit of a defensive breakdown on Roman Polak’s part didn’t help. Everyone’s allowed mistakes, but they can be costly in playoff hockey. Thankfully there is no shootout or 4-on-4 overtime in the playoffs, so the Blues can continue playing normal hockey. Here’s hoping it ends quickly with a puck behind Antti Niemi.

Blues Vs. Sharks Game One: Second Period Score: Havlat Scores, Puts Sharks Up 1-0

That wasn’t the period that the Blues probably wanted as a whole. Portions of it, especially the end of the period? Yes. The entirety? No. The playoff experience for some is showing, but the inexperience is also not helping the Blues.

David Perron began the hiccup with an ill-advised slashing call behind the play. The San Jose Sharks smelled blood in a suddenly discombobulated Blues team, and broke out their second overall power play for a Martin Havlat goal:

As the NBC guys called it, that was a touch of “accidental interference” by Havlat on Alex Pietrangelo on the play, but it doesn’t matter – the goal counted, and it was enough to throw the Blues off of their game for the rest of the period. They were 0-for-2 on the power play, which is an area that the Blues can turn on the jets if needed. The final five minutes of the period was Bluenote domination, and that needs to carry over into the third period unless the Blues want to be down 1-0 in the series.

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game One: First Period Score: Stalemate

So far, so defensive for the Blues and Sharks. Neither team was looking to let the other get any good chances, as it should be. The Blues are outshooting the Sharks 7-4, but are pretty rough with San Jose.

No one expected the Blues to be shrinking violets; they have ten hits, two by T.J. Oshie and two by Scott Nichol, the former member of the San Jose Sharks. They’re winning in the face-off circle too with 59% of the draws taken. If they continue that, plus continue to play rough and tumble, their chances improve. As they learned against Phoenix last week, playing to skill does not trump playing to effort.

2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks: Game One Preview

I've written a few preview pieces so far for this series, so a big in-depth preview for game numero uno might not be necessary. What is necessary, however, is this photo making a special guest appearance:

via s3-ak.buzzfed.com

Of course, you can point and laugh at Joe Thornton, but he had 77 points on the season to lead the San Jose Sharks. Sure, the season was a disappointing one by Sharks' standards, and they've long been known as playoff chokers, but they're dangerous and they're playoff tested -- and they're the exact example of why you never count a team out for its shortcomings before the playoffs begin.

The Blues, however, are an example of why you never count a team out before the season begins. Can they win their first playoff game since before the lockout tonight? With the best home record in the NHL and goaltender Jaroslav Halak in net tonight, chances are good that they will.

If you can't watch the game tonight (and if I can't, I very much pity you), feel free to check in here after every period for a recap and some analysis. Puck drop is at 7:30, and the game is airing on CNBC for those of you who will be able to watch, but won't be able to make it.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Sharks Vs. Blues: Captain David Backes Gets Own "Because It's The Cup" Ad

This "Because It's the Cup" ad featuring David Backes might not be shown much outside of St. Louis, but personally it should be shown as a warning to our nation's enemies: Captain America's coming to getcha.

Intense? Yep -- even more so, because the fun starts tonight. Game day posts are coming up.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks: Helpful Guides To The Scottrade Center

A couple of Yahoo!'s fan contributors, William Browning and Brad Boeker, have written handy guides to those attending the Blues' playoff game tonight. Whether you've never been to the Scottrade Center or are an old hat at it, playoff hockey's a different beast.

In his article, Browning will give you hints on the best parking, taking the Metrolink, how early to get there (hint: pretty damn early if you can), where to get your tickets at (if you can even get them anymore) and where to munch before the game. Boeker does much of the same thing, but he also mentions the handy tip that nosebleeds are available on some on-line sites for $125.

My advice to you would be to take the day off work (too late, I know) and head down. The Blues're having a playoffs Block Party at 14th and Washington beginning at 3, and then a rally at the Scottrade Center at 4. Everyone have fun, be safe, and drink a tasty adult beverage for those of us who are out of town and sad about it.

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks: Goalie Jaroslav Halak Will Be A Huge Key, But So Will Antti Niemi

The St. Louis Blues are the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference bracket of the 2012 NHL Playoffs and start their march to the Stanley Cup when they take on the No. 7 San Jose Sharks in the first round on Thursday night. St. Louis swept the season series 4-0, but the Sharks played well in the finals weeks of the season and have a strong core of Martin Havlat, Joe Thornton and Joe Pavelski. Travis Hughes of SB Nation broke down the series in a recent article, while he thinks the Sharks have a good shot at knocking off the Blues, he calls the Blues the second-best team in the NHL (behind the Pittsburgh Penguins) and adds this:

4) When all's said and done, the Blues' playoff chances hinge on ...

It's easy to say goaltending, because Jaroslav Halak and Brian Elliott have been so great for the Blues this year, but having two guys who can go into lockdown mode is a good thing. The playoff life of the Blues hinges on whether they can stay in the team concept they played all year and battle hard on every play of every shift in every game. When they do that, they look a lot like last year's Boston Bruins. When they don't, they look like a team that won't weather the playoff storm very well.

Here is what you need to find game one on Thursday:

No. 7 San Jose Sharks at No. 2 St. Louis Blues
6:30 p.m. CT Thursday -- Game 1, Western Conference Quarterfinals | Series tied, 0-0
National TV: CNBC, CBC, RDSI | Local TV: FS Midwest, CSN California

For all news and information regarding the St. Louis Blues, please visit St. Louis Game Time. For updates and perspective on the San Jose Sharks, head on over to Fear the Fin. For complete coverage of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NHL hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks Game 1: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Blues are back in the playoffs, where they will face Joe Thornton and the San Jose Sharks.

2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs: Jaroslav Halak Named Blues' Starter For First Round Series

In a move that should surprise no one but that might anger a few in the "Elliott is better!" crowd, Jaroslav Halak's been named the Blues' starter for the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Elliott's suffering from a very minor upper body injury that hampered him in practice the other day, but coach Ken Hitchcock said that he's still good to play. That being said, Halak has playoff experience, and pretty deep experience at that. He led the Montreal Canadiens to a surprising Eastern Conference Finals series in 2009, which was shortly before he was acquired by the St. Louis Blues.

Halak's cool, calm, and collected demeanor should help the fairly inexperienced Blues team center itself, but if he were to falter, the Blues have a benefit that no other team has: a spare starter. The Sharks should be concerned that either goaltender is starting, since Elliott has a 1.00 GA against them in two starts this season and Halak has a miniscule .50 GAA.

2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs: Majority Of Puck Daddy Team Predicts Blues First Round Win

It's been a running joke amongst Blues fans for most of this season that the team's been outstanding, but that it's been under the radar 95% of the time. National media hasn't talked about them much until it became unavoidable, and the NHL didn't even bother mentioning the Blues' Central Division clench on NHL.com's main page.

That's why it's been so much fun to see pundits picking the Blues as the victor of their first round matchup against the San Jose Sharks. Yahoo! Sports' Puck Daddy, which is probably the most widely read hockey blog out there, has their perfunctory first round/playoff predictions up, and the Blues are chosen to make it past the Sharks seven out of nine times. Editor in Chief Greg Wyshynski even makes them his top Western Conference team, losing to the Penguins in the Finals.

While I'd not be happy with that scenario, I'd still cope with it -- the only thing that'd make me happy personally would be a Cup, but you can squeeze pride from a turnip (or Kent Huskins' head).

For full St. Louis Blues coverage, check in with SB Nation St. Louis and St. Louis Game Time. For full San Jose Sharks coverage, check in with SB Nation Bay Area, Fear The Fin and Battle of California.

2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs: St. Louis Post-Dispatch Chooses Worst Photo Ever To Publicize Their Print Playoff Edition

Well, this is an unfortunate photo to choose to publicize the Post-Dispatch's print playoff preview edition that's on newsstands today:

Anyone in the metro area who has one, did they use the same one on the actual print preview? Because nothing screams "PLAYOFFS!!!11!!" like Scott Nichol whapping Rob Scuderi of the LA Kings... since the Blues are playing the San Jose Sharks and all.

For full St. Louis Blues coverage, check in with SB Nation St. Louis and St. Louis Game Time. For full San Jose Sharks coverage, check in with SB Nation Bay Area, Fear The Fin and Battle of California.

Brian Elliott Injury: St. Louis Blues Goaltender Day-To-Day With Upper-Body Ailment

Blues goalie Brian Elliott missed the second half of the team's practice on Tuesday with a minor upper-body injury, according to the team. Ken Hitchcock says they didn't want to risk Elliott aggravating the injury, which he's been enduring for about a week.

"We didn't want to aggravate it," Hitchcock said. "We've been nursing it for a week or so. He got a lot of work in the first 45 minutes ... It's more maintenance. It's not a big deal. We knew how long this day was going to be and we just felt like, 'Man, why cool a guy down?'"

Related: 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs: First Round Matchup Preview

The Blues play their first game of the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs on Thursday.

For full St. Louis Blues coverage, check in with SB Nation St. Louis and St. Louis Game Time. For full San Jose Sharks coverage, check in with SB Nation Bay Area, Fear The Fin and Battle of California.

NHL Playoffs 2012: Blues/Sharks Series Preview

The Blues, at first glance, seem to have drawn a very advantageous matchup by snagging the San Jose Sharks. The seventh overall seed has had their first season in five not winning the Pacific Division, though still finished with 96 points. To call this year a disappointment for them is a reflection of their high standard of regular-season excellence rather than how many points they got. The Blues might've swept the season series 4-0, and allowed just three goals in those four games. They might've shut them out twice. The Sharks have a reputation for turning it up a bit in the playoffs, though, while the Blues haven't made them in three years. What happened during the regular season is now immaterial.

Goaltending is strong on the Blues side, more than obviously. The Jennings-winning pair of Jaroslav Halak and Brian Elliott alowed the fewest goals per game on average in the NHL -- either player is a comfortable start for Ken Hitchcock. Both started two of four games against the Sharks this season, and both had a shutout as well. The goaltending on the other side of the rink for the Sharks, however, is shakier and less dependable. Thomas Greiss is an ok back-up, but that's who he is. A backup. Stanley Cup winner Antti Niemi is a good, solid goalie, but he's easily rattled. His last couple of games weren't necessarily lessons in goaltending grit. Nonetheless, the Sharks are 8th in the league in goals allowed.

Their penalty kill is atrocious, however. That could be part of the reason why it seems like Niemi isn't as effective as he is as capable of being. They rank 29th out of 30 in the league. The Blues power-play isn't anything amazing, but they've pulled themselves up to 19th overall from being in the basement for most of the season.

If the Sharks' penalty kill is bad, their powerplay is excellent. They're ranked second overall and should give the Blues a go. Limiting bad penalties -- which seems to have been a St. Louis specialty as of late -- is of the utmost importance if the Blues want to be successful. You don't want to leave yourself open to attack, especially by a team with three 30 goal scorers in Logan Couture, Joe Pavelski, and Patrick Marleau. The Blues' defense is strong, but there's no reason to force them and the penalty kill to deal with situations that are perfectly avoidable.

Puck drop is at 7:30 Thursday evening, and will be broadcast outside of the St. Louis and San Jose areas on CNBC. NBC is carrying every playoff game outside of the teams' broadcast areas, so start making that new "NHL PLAYOFFS" favorite channel list.

For full St. Louis Blues coverage, check in with SB Nation St. Louis and St. Louis Game Time. For full San Jose Sharks coverage, check in with SB Nation Bay Area, Fear The Fin and Battle of California.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blues Vs. Sharks: Puck Possession Trends Could Come Into Play

The St. Louis Blues secured the No. 2 seed in the NHL's Western Conference playoff bracket, but even their first round matchup against the No. 7 San Jose Sharks won't be easy. The Blues hit a snag at the end of the regular season, and now they have to deal with a potent Sharks offense anchored by Logan Couture, Joe Pavelski, Patrick Marleau and point man Joe Thornton, who dished up 59 assists and 77 points to lead the team in scoring. Over at SB Nation's Sharks blog, Fear The Fin, they broke down the puck possession numbers and see some trends in the last 15 games that suggest St. Louis might be vulnerable:

San Jose Sharks & St. Louis Blues at Even Strength (Last 15 Games)

What this is telling us is that the St. Louis Blues struggles in their last 15 games are reflective of a drop in possession. As of late, they haven't controlled the play like they did during the majority of the season.

A lot of times you can point to puck luck or variance or bounces of whatever you want to call it as a reason for a team's struggles, but for the Blues this seems to be an issue that might have deeper roots. I wouldn't call it a glaring weakness (as their possession numbers are still fine in some respects), but I think the notion "the Blues entered the postseason at a less than optimal level" is accurate and relevant.

The series could be tough on Blues fans as well, with the west coast time zone coming into play. In an article titled "How to Watch West Coast Games and Not be a Zombie," the staff at St. Louis Game Time presented a whimsical guide to staying up late and still being able to function the following morning. It's a wonderful read, so be sure to check it out.

To get you in the mood for playoff hockey, here is a complete look at the post-season landscape:

EASTERN CONFERENCE

• No. 1 New York Rangers vs. No. 8 Ottawa Senators
• No. 2 Boston Bruins vs. No. 7 Washington Capitals
• No. 3 Florida Panthers vs. No 6 New Jersey Devils
• No. 4 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. No. 5 Philadelphia Flyers

WESTERN CONFERENCE

• No. 1 Vancouver Canucks vs. No. 8 Los Angeles Kings
• No. 2 St. Louis Blues vs. No. 7 San Jose Sharks
• No. 3 Phoenix Coyotes vs. No. 6 Chicago Blackhawks
• No. 4 Nashville Predators vs. No. 5 Detroit Red Wings

For full St. Louis Blues coverage, check in with SB Nation St. Louis and St. Louis Game Time. For full San Jose Sharks coverage, check in with SB Nation Bay Area, Fear The Finand Battle of California.

2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs: First Round Matchup Preview

It's time for the second season to begin, or as some prefer calling it, "the real season." It's going to be tough, long, and drawn out, but there's not a single series that doesn't prove to be exciting in some way, shape, or form.

Schedules from NHL.com:

SERIES A	TIME (ET)	#1 VS. #8	NETWORKS
THURSDAY, APRIL 12, 2012	7 P.M.	OTTAWA AT NY RANGERS	NHL NETWORK, CBC
SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 2012	7 P.M.	OTTAWA AT NY RANGERS	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, CBC
MONDAY, APRIL 16, 2012	7:30 P.M.	NY RANGERS AT OTTAWA	CBC, CNBC
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012	7:30 P.M.	NY RANGERS AT OTTAWA	CBC, CNBC
*SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2012	7 P.M.	OTTAWA AT NY RANGERS	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, CBC
*MONDAY, APRIL 23, 2012	TBD	NY RANGERS AT OTTAWA	TBD
*THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012	TBD	OTTAWA AT NY RANGERS	TBD

Make no mistake about this one, this series has the potential to go down to the wire. Sure, you have Henrik Lundqvist, but you also have to remember that the Rangers were 1-2-1 in the regular season schedule and were outscored 13-8. Write Ottawa off at your own risk.

SERIES B	TIME (ET)	#2 VS. #7	NETWORKS
THURSDAY, APRIL 12, 2012	7:30 P.M.	WASHINGTON AT BOSTON	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, CBC
SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 2012	3 P.M.	WASHINGTON AT BOSTON	NBC, CBC
MONDAY, APRIL 16, 2012	7:30 P.M.	BOSTON AT WASHINGTON	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, CBC
THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2012	7:30 P.M.	BOSTON AT WASHINGTON	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, CBC
*SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2012	3 P.M.	WASHINGTON AT BOSTON	NBC, CBC
*SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012	TBD	BOSTON AT WASHINGTON	TBD
*WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 2012	TBD	WASHINGTON AT BOSTON	TBD

There was some worry that the Washington Capitals weren't even going to make the playoffs this season; their 7th overall finish is both unfamiliar territory and a bit of a relief for their fans. The Bruins have had hiccups through the season, but they're still the defending Stanley Cup Champions. That means they have something to fight for. Also, Braden Holtby is probably Washington's starter, so draw your own conclusions

SERIES C	TIME (ET)	#3 VS. #6	NETWORKS
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012	7 P.M.	NEW JERSEY AT FLORIDA	NHL NETWORK, TSN
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, 2012	7:30 P.M.	NEW JERSEY AT FLORIDA	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2012	7 P.M.	FLORIDA AT NEW JERSEY	NHL NETWORK, TSN
THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2012	7 P.M.	FLORIDA AT NEW JERSEY	NHL NETWORK, TSN
*SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2012	6:30 P.M.	NEW JERSEY AT FLORIDA	NHL NETWORK, TSN
*TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 2012	TBD	FLORIDA AT NEW JERSEY	TBD
*THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012	TBD	NEW JERSEY AT FLORIDA	TBD

The Florida Panthers are not only back in the playoffs for the first time since 2000, they've won their first Southeast Division banner in the process. Unfortunately, winning the Southeast Division isn't exactly tough work, and the Panthers made it harder than they needed to. Their -24 goal differential is atrocious (the only other playoff team in either conference to have a negative goal differential is Washington at a -8) and their 94 points wouldn't've made the playoffs in the Western Conference.

SERIES D	TIME (ET)	#4 VS. #5	NETWORKS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11, 2012	7:30 P.M.	PHILADELPHIA AT PITTSBURGH	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012	7:30 P.M.	PHILADELPHIA AT PITTSBURGH	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, 2012	3 P.M.	PITTSBURGH AT PHILADELPHIA	NBC, TSN
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012	7:30 P.M.	PITTSBURGH AT PHILADELPHIA	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
*FRIDAY, APRIL 20, 2012	7:30 P.M.	PHILADELPHIA AT PITTSBURGH	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
*SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012	TBD	PITTSBURGH AT PHILADELPHIA	TBD
*TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 2012	TBD	PHILADELPHIA AT PITTSBURGH	TBD

This Keystone State matchup is probably the most anticipated and most hatred-filled matchup in either conference. Evgeny Malkin. Claude Giroux. Sidney Crosby. Scott Hartnell. Kris Letang. Jaromir Jagr. You want star power? You want teams that really, really, REALLY hate each other in every possible way? Well, here you go. Playoff perfection.

SERIES E	TIME (ET)	#1 VS. #8	NETWORKS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11, 2012	10:30 P.M.	LOS ANGELES AT VANCOUVER	CBC, NBC SPORTS NETWORK
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012	10 P.M.	LOS ANGELES AT VANCOUVER	CBC, NBC SPORTS NETWORK
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, 2012	10:30 P.M.	VANCOUVER AT LOS ANGELES	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, CBC
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, 2012	10 P.M.	VANCOUVER AT LOS ANGELES	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, CBC
*SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012	TBD	LOS ANGELES AT VANCOUVER	TBD
*TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 2012	TBD	VANCOUVER AT LOS ANGELES	TBD
*THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012	TBD	LOS ANGELES AT VANCOUVER	TBD

If you like goaltending, this is the series for you. Roberto Luongo's solid, and Jonathan Quick's the league leader in shutouts at 10. Also, the Kings have lost more games 1-0 than any team in the NHL, so if you're all about scoring you might want to flip on a different series.

SERIES G	TIME (ET)	#3 VS. #6	NETWORKS
THURSDAY, APRIL 12, 2012	10 P.M.	CHICAGO AT PHOENIX	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 2012	10 P.M.	CHICAGO AT PHOENIX	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2012	9 P.M.	PHOENIX AT CHICAGO	CNBC, TSN
THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2012	8 P.M.	PHOENIX AT CHICAGO	CNBC, TSN
*SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2012	10 P.M.	CHICAGO AT PHOENIX	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
*MONDAY, APRIL 23, 2012	TBD	PHOENIX AT CHICAGO	TBD
*WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 2012	TBD	CHICAGO AT PHOENIX	TBD

So what if the Chicago Blackhawks have more points than the Phoenix Coyotes? They managed to go through a stretch where it looked like they could drop out of playoff contention, and a decent chunk of these problems can be attributed to a slightly uneven goaltending duo. Phoenix has Mike Smith, who has allowed two goals over his last five games. I would consider that an edge.

SERIES H	TIME (ET)	#4 VS. #5	NETWORKS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11, 2012	8 P.M.	DETROIT AT NASHVILLE	CNBC, CBC
FRIDAY, APRIL 13, 2012	7:30 P.M.	DETROIT AT NASHVILLE	CNBC, CBC
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, 2012	NOON	NASHVILLE AT DETROIT	NBC, CBC
TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2012	7:30 P.M.	NASHVILLE AT DETROIT	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, CBC
*FRIDAY, APRIL 20, 2012	8 P.M.	DETROIT AT NASHVILLE	CNBC, CBC
*SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012	TBD	NASHVILLE AT DETROIT	TBD
*TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 2012	TBD	DETROIT AT NASHVILLE	TBD

For the first time since the Bush administration (the first one), the Red Wings don't have home ice advantage. That might not help them, as despite the fact that they've defeated the Predators every time they've played them in the playoffs, they've had soem rough games against them at the loud Bridgestone Arena. Home ice advantage could very well help the Preds immensely.

NHL Playoffs Schedule And Bracket 2012: Blues/Sharks Schedule Announced

The first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs begins Thursday night at home for the St. Louis Blues. They're facing off against the San Jose Sharks in the Scottrade center at 7:30; the game will be broadcast on CBNC, so use your channel guide to find that one.

Here's the complete first round schedule from NHL.com:

SERIES F	TIME (ET)	#2 VS. #7	NETWORKS
THURSDAY, APRIL 12, 2012	7:30 P.M.	SAN JOSE AT ST. LOUIS	CNBC, TSN
SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 2012	7:30 P.M.	SAN JOSE AT ST. LOUIS	CNBC, TSN
MONDAY, APRIL 16, 2012	10 P.M.	ST. LOUIS AT SAN JOSE	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2012	10:30 P.M.	ST. LOUIS AT SAN JOSE	NBC SPORTS NETWORK, TSN
*SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2012	7:30 P.M.	SAN JOSE AT ST. LOUIS	CNBC, TSN
*MONDAY, APRIL 23, 2012	TBD	ST. LOUIS AT SAN JOSE	TBD
*WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, 2012	TBD	SAN JOSE AT ST. LOUIS	TBD

Keep in mind that all times are Eastern, so those of you who are not in the Eastern Time Zone don't have to stay up until God knows when to watch the games in San Jose.

Clear your calendars, folks. It's playoff hockey time in St. Louis!

2012 NHL Playoffs: Blues Face San Jose Sharks In First Round

The 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs are underway, and the Blues drew a very favorable match-up in the San Jose Sharks. The Sharks, by virtue of winning 3-2 in a shootout on Saturday night against the Los Angeles Kings, determined the final placements in the Western Conference.

The Western Conference playoff bracket looks like this:

• #1 Vancouver Canucks -- #8 Los Angeles Kings
• #2 St. Louis Blues -- #7 San Jose Sharks
• #3 Phoenix Coyotes -- #6 Chicago Blackhawks
• #4 Nashville Predators -- #5 Detroit Red Wings

The Blues drew the better of the two teams in the chase for the last two playoff spots ... better for the Blues, that is. The Blues are a perfect 4-0-0 against the San Jose Sharks this season, while the Blues were 1-2-1 against the Los Angeles Kings. The Kings' goaltending combo was second to St. Louis in the NHL in excellence, while the Sharks' goaltending duo of Antti Niemi and Thomas Greiss isn't the one-two knockout punch that Jaroslav Halak and Brian Elliott are.

The Sharks do have three 30-goal scorers that the Blues need to watch out for in Logan Couture, Joe Pavelski, and Patrick Marleau. Their main set-up man is Joe Thornton, who has an impressive 59 assists and 77 points to lead their team in scoring.

The Blues have a chance to settle old scores against the Sharks, who were the team that defeated them in the last Stanley Cup playoffs before the lockout. The Sharks also dealt the Blues a knockout first round punch the season that they won the Presidents' Trophy. The only guy around who remembers the last time these two teams met is Barret Jackman, but that doesn't necessarily matter. What matters is that the Blues continue goaltending dominance into the playoffs and past the first round, and the Sharks could well be the perfect team to test that mighty home-ice advantage out on.

2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs: Playoff Matchups Set, Schedule To Be Released

The 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs are upon us, and the Blues are looking to continue their outstanding regular season well into June.