College basketball's yearly foray into the sporting landscape commands the attention of a frenzied nation, with the passionate and casual fan captivated equally. But ask any hockey enthusiast and they'll tell you that March excites for another reason.
With most NHL team schedules dwindled down to just 15 (or so) contests remaining, the NHL playoff push is alive, as every point gains in value and seeding becomes paramount.
In St. Louis, Ken Hitchcock awakes this morning with 93 points, the most in the NHL, and the surprising position as the Western Conference's No. 1 seed. The Blues may not be surprised at their own success, but from an outside perspective, it requires a double-take.
Meanwhile, two California teams take their morning skate today surprised for a different reason altogether. Todd McLellan's Sharks (75 points) and Darryl Sutter's Kings (74 points) are battling for the eight spot in the Western Conference and ultimately, both are clinging to postseason life.
Kings general manager Dean Lombardi was particularly busy in the offseason and recently at the trade deadline, acquiring ex-Flyer stars Mike Richards and Jeff Carter ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Ryan O'Leary
NHL Playoff Predictions: Surprises Abound in the Eastern and Western Conferences
March 9th, 2012 by Ryan O'Leary Leave a reply »
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