Sharks, Rangers Look to Even Up Series
April 27th, 2008 by Jason CThe Sharks were upset in overtime in Game 1 by Brenden Morrow, and look to even up the series at home before the series heads to Texas. This is a big game for the Sharks, who do not want to head to Dallas in a 2-0 hole. The Stars, despite having a less talented and deep roster, have managed to really gel as a team and play a team game, much like Montreal has. Marty Turco has been absolutely stellar thus far, even dating back to last year’s first round exit against Vancouver, and perhaps it is time we stopped blaming Turco for Dallas’ playoff woes. This could very well be his year, and he is undoubtedly the Stars’ MVP of the playoffs thus far. Not having Sergei Zubov on the blueline really hurts but Turco’s strong play has overcome that.
The Rangers will be sure to keep the Penguins offense in check once they have to lead to avoid blowing another lead. Sean Avery’s over-the-top goal celebration was a motivator for the Pens to keep fighting. Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Marian Hossa caused havoc all night long. Their puck possession in the offensive zone was outstanding, although they failed to get some shots on net. The Rangers do not collapse on Henrik Lundqvist, which means less deflections and the goalie can see the shot better. Marc-Andre Fleury did not crack under the pressure of being down 3-0 and Michel Therrien was smart enough to realize that by not replacing him with Ty Conklin in the game. Perhaps the outcome of the Sharks-Flames series would’ve been different had Mike Keenan kept Miikka Kiprusoff in the game.
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