Playoff Update

Less than a week in, the 2010 playoffs have so far delivered upsets, surprises, some amazing hockey, and also reassured us that being a top seed guarantees nothing. Some new teams are showing what they've got, and some old demons have also been hanging around.

Some things seem to never change. The San Jose Sharks have been heavily criticized for their lack of success in the playoffs after repeatedly finishing the regular season in a top seed. This year seems to be no different. Last night both the Sharks and Avalanche, played a tight game that went into overtime with a 0-0 score. Just 50seconds into the first overtime period, the Colorado Avalanche came out on top to take a 2-1 series lead.

Without sniper Dany Heatley, and seemingly crushed under high expectations, the San Jose Sharks are continuing to frustrate their fans. Last night was a game that could have gone either way, but with the skill and talent that the San Jose Sharks possess, another first round exit is completely unacceptable. If the Sharks fail to come back in this series, something major needs to happen with this club.

This series has undoubtedly been one of the most entertaining, with the Philadelphia Flyers giving the New Jersey Devils a run for their money. Flyers captain, Mike Richards has had an inspiring series so far with six points, while veteran defensmen, Chris Pronger and Kimmo Timonen have been solid on the blueline. Goalie, Brian Boucher has been good enough for the Flyers thus far, while Brodeur can hardly be faulted for being down 2-1 in the series.

Here's a look at the other series:
With the series tied 1-1, the Washington Capitals hope to keep some momentum after Friday's overtime win. Halak is a lock to start in goal for the Habs, but word is Caps coach, Bruce Boudreau has yet to announce his starter for tonight's matchup. You can watch game #3 tonight at 7:00pm EST on TSN.

With the series tied at 1-1, the Boston Bruins will head home for the next two games against the Buffalo Sabres. Both teams hope that they can find some offense heading into game #3 tonight. Marc Savard is reportedly inching closer to a return, which would greatly help Boston's chances of pulling off an upset. Puck drop is 7:00pm EST on CBC.

The Pittsburgh Penguins dominated the Ottawa Senators in game #3 with superstar, Sidney Crosby scoring the winning goal. Ottawa has played fairly well against the defending Stanley Cup champs, but will have to find a way to contain Crosby if they hope to win this series. Game #4 is tomorrow night. Pittsburgh leads the series 2-1.

Another series was tied up at 1-1 yesterday, with the Chicago Blackhawks shutting out the Nashville Predators. Antti Niemi stopped all 23 shots that were fired his way, while Dave Bolland and Patrick Kane scored both goals for the young Blackhawks. The series moves to Nashville tomorrow night for game #3.

With the series tied at 1-1, the Vancouver Canucks will try to come back in Los Angeles after a tough overtime loss Friday night. This has been one of the more exciting series, and if you can stay up late enough, you can catch game #3 tonight on CBC at 10:00pm EST.

In my opinion, the best series thus far, has been the Phoenix Coyotes against the Detroit Red Wings. After a hard fought game yesterday afternoon, the resilient Coyotes skated to a 2-1 series lead. Game #4 takes place tomorrow night in Detroit.