And We're Off

So if last night's Eastern Conference Finals' opener was any indicator of things to come, we might as well all re-stock our Rogaine, double up on our blood pressure meds, and get that cardiologist on speed dial, because this is going to be some high tension hockey. Game One was everything a Stanley Cup playoff game should be, with plenty of drama, and the longest 86 seconds in recent memory.

Although the Pens and the 'Canes come in to this series as the two hottest teams in the NHL since mid-February, the similarities pale there. The Penguins are clearly an emerging team, talent laden with added playoff depth, a team that is getting stronger with each series. The 'Canes are a team that is living on the edge, playing desperate, yet fundamentally sound and focused hockey. I'm certainly not saying that Carolina is anywhere close to rolling up the tents, but I truly believe that the thoroughbred in the stable wears black and gold.

Should the Pens arrive with their A game on Thursday, I think we may just begin to see the true delta in the talent levels. With all that being said, netminder Cam Ward, just like his young counterpart, M.A. Fleury, has all the skills and big stage presence to carry a team on his back. As Dan Bylsma wisely stated, "if we're talking about Cam Ward when this thing is over, you'll probably know who won."

Some Quick Hitters:

• All hail Satan, as Miro the Hero notched his first playoff goal of 2009.
• So how many goals do the Penguin defensemen have in the post season? 10?
• Big brother Eric Staal displayed some poor role model qualities and some lousy sportsmanship by sweeping MAF's goal stick away, thus leading to the 'Canes second score. Of course, I would have turned a blind eye had youngster Jordan pulled the same stunt.
• Before Brooks Orpik got busted for a high elbow in the waning moments, the Pens had gone over 120 minutes while yielding only one power play opportunity. That's sound hockey.