I don't know how many people will actually read a blog posted at 4pm on a Saturday, but instead of writing it earlier, I watched the Senator's game.
It was thrilling. The stakes of the game made it possibly the best game I've watched all season and I'm excited that they won. It wasn't that long ago people were talking about the Senators in terms of draft position, just like the Leafs and Coyotes.
I doubt I'll be alone in considering this one of the best stories in the NHL in years. Stuff like this - especially in the age of advanced statistics and constant probability odds - isn't supposed to happen. I think - if you'll indulge me in some lame sentimentality - that things like this reaffirm why we watch sports in the first place.
The Senators weren't supposed to make it, the Flames weren't supposed to make it and the Jets were supposed to wilt when Kane was hurt for the season, then again when Byfuglien was suspended, and yet they all made it in the end.
Good. Not much is better than the first round of the Playoffs, but when the games are in buildings in Canada there is an extra level of excitement this year's tournament is shaping up to be - potentially - one of the best ever.
I am really hoping that the Senators can get a first-round matchup with the Lightning, because I really hate to be forced into cheering against either the Sens or Canadiens - at least in the first round.
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The Coyotes play their final game of the season today and it's a small mercy. Ever since the trade deadline - if I'm honest - it's been hard to watch this team. Outside of OEL there hasn't been a great reason to tune in and I often find myself watching Rangers games - as if a Coyote's fan can experience good hockey vicariously by watching Yandle skate with his new team.
The Coyotes final game will have the hook that if the 'Yotes win, they'll avoid the first 50 loss season in franchise history. Previously, their worst year was 2006-07 when they went 31-46-5 and finished with 67 points.
This year, the best than can do is 58 points. They could also win by more than one goal and get their goal differential under -100, which would at least be nice for posterity's sake.
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The Flames are scratching 11 players today. How is that even allowed and how do they even have that many spare players? I know rosters expand, but that's ridiculous and kind of lame for anyone who paid to go to the game today.
Although Sam Bennett will at least get to play his first game.
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The Coyotes signed last year's second round pick Ryan MacInnis to an entry level deal yesterday. he played with the Kitchener Rangers of the OHL this year had 62 points in 67 games, an 11 goal and 25 point increase from last year.
Everything I hear about MacInnis is positive and the Coyotes - who are guaranteed to pick no later than 3rd this year - have put together a very impressive group of young forwards.
Anyways, last game, rough year, but still fun. Thanks for everyone who followed along and hopefully things are fun this summer.
Thanks for reading