After a one-day hiatus, hockey’s back tonight with Game 1 of the Western Conference Final. The Predators and Ducks face off at 8 p.m. tonight. Who should you root for? Mike Heika reminds us of the remaining former Stars players still in the postseason, including Patrick Eaves, Vernon Fiddler, and James Neal.
Patrick Eaves, Anaheim: Currently out with a lower body injury, but he has 4 points in 7 playoff games while averaging 16:53 in ice time.
Vernon Fiddler, Nashville: Battling injuries, but has been a significant player when he’s on the ice. Scores goal in one game, ejected in another. Seems ready to get back into regular fourth line role.
Here’s the latest update on Eaves’ injury from Anaheim GM Bob Murray.
Bob Murray says Patrick Eaves is “a ways away yet” but more optimistic on his return at some point. Eaves is walking around, working out.
— Eric Stephens (@icemancometh) May 11, 2017
There’s more on the Ducks/Preds showdown at the link, and you can see what to expect from Saturday’s Game 1 of Senators vs. Penguins on Saturday right here. [NHL]
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Over at TSN, Scott Cullen says that the Golden Knights should pick Antoine Roussel in the expansion draft (if, of course, he’s available). [TSN]
Sean Shapiro’s latest podcast is now available for your Friday listening pleasure.
NEW PODCAST: It’s been a good week for the Dallas Stars
SOUNDCLOUD: https://t.co/WzZtfkkI8z Up in iTunes soon— Sean Shapiro (@seanshapiro) May 11, 2017
See who’s leading the Conn Smythe Power Rankings so far. [Sportsnet]
Alex Ovechkin will miss the world championships due to a knee injury. [Washington Post]
And in other world championships injury news, Tyson Barrie will miss the rest of the tournament…
Barrie was wrestling with a teammate in his hotel room and suffered a leg laceration. For precautionary reasons he is done.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) May 11, 2017
The Hockey News’ Ryan Kennedy takes a look at Alex DeBrincat’s success with the Erie Otters. [The Hockey News]
Jason Botterill is the new general manager for the Sabres. [Buffalo News]
What’s next for the Capitals? [Sportsnet]
And finally, the Stars have a quick summary for you.
✅ Hitch
✅ Ben Bishop
✅ 3rd overall pick
✅ ANA 1st RD pick
✅ Don’t have to cheer for the Ducks anymore— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) May 11, 2017