Suspense, Quebec Style (et plus)

Vol. I, No. 67

Moncton is trying for a comeback tonight.  The QMJHL champion Wildcats are tied, 3-3, in the first OT period, against the OHL champion Windsor Spitfires. Moncton scored two goals in the third period to tie the game.

What is happening in Brandon MB tonight is a traditional Ontario-Quebec battle for hockey bragging rights.  Moncton has lost twice in this tournament, and has something to prove.

Taylor Hall, the probable #1 NHL draft pick, is playing for the Spitfires. He has been held to one assist tonight. The Windsor team has already qualified for a berth in the CHL Memorial Cup final.  The only question is who their opponents will be.  

Hmmm, seems like there is another team from Quebec which has lost two in a row (both shutouts) against a team from another province (or state).  The next game in the NHL Eastern Conference finals happens on Thursday May 20.  The Centre Bell will be rocking, and I don't think a third shutout is in the cards.  On verra.  We shall see.

The last game of the evening started at 10pm, and the Chicago Blackhawks lead the San Jose Sharks 3-1 with one period of play left. On the east coast, if you can stay awake until 12:30am, the outcome will be known.

If the Hawks can go two up on the road, it sure looks like the Sharks will be washed up soon.  But a one goal lead at the HP Pavilion in San Jose does not mean much, unless Antti Niemi is standing on his head. Maybe he can "finnish" the Sharks off. Stranger things have happened.

Hockey Rules.

P.S. Ontario won tonight. The Spitfires scored in overtime to win 4-3. Looks like Windsor is cruising to another championship. With three straight wins, they still have to get through the final game on Sunday May 23rd. It will be broadcast on the NHL Network, game time 6pm. Watch tomorrow's stars, before the NHL entry draft happens on June 25-26 in Los Angeles.