The Columbus Blue Jackets startled The Tama Bay Lightnings in a four-game sweep last night here in Columbus. This is a first for the Blue Jackets and a long time coming for the local fans. I am not a big hockey fan, but certainly good news for the local team and surrounding businesses.
I guess Tampa Bay had the best regular season point total. So quite a big deal for them to get swept in the 1st round.
The Jets are a good squad and it's very tough to win in Winnepeg. Last night's game between Calgary and Colorado was end to end non-stop action. Lots of fun.
Corey, you are going to have to educate me on the art of watching hockey games! I could not follow the puck on Hula last night.
Don, The more you get to know the game, the easier it is to follow the puck. Still, there are times where there are scrums in front of the net or quick exchanges at mid-ice where you can lose site of it. The biggest problem with hockey is that the puck is not TV friendly. If you ever get a chance to go see the Blue Jackets in person, you'll be hooked.
Da Blues.....great pass...Scwartz redirects....Winnipeg goes silent. Problem is nobody can win at home.
AJ, That's what's really crazy about your series. Those are 2 of the toughest places to play in the NHL and these two teams seem to have no issue with it.
Have been to several Bluejacket games. Watched game 4 (I'm in Myrtle Beach on a golf trip but squeezed it in during our evening dice game.)
Corey... Blues had only 3 more wins at home versus the road...but had 7 ties OTR vs 2 at home....and 15 loses at home...versus 13 OTR...Stats say less better OTR...plus the home jerseys LLS.
Tampa getting swept by the more physical inferior team in the playoffs is an old NHL playoff script. Teams that step up their physical aspect against skaters and scorers always seem to dominate The Stanley Cup playoffs.
Re AJ's question and no Google help, when the NHL first expended, the Blues were the Western Conference ( expansion conference) champion and made the finals the first two years but got swept by Montreal and Boston. Don't think they have been in the finals since. I believe Ali was just coming back from suspension so my guess is Joe Frazier. Year-- either 1969 or 1970.
Very good Bobda!....1970 was the last year for the Blues after 3 straight as appearances.....now here's where the argument starts....Joe Frazier was a recognized world champion in 1970...after the tournament.....however....pause for effect....