I think it is time for my comments.

I expected to see the Penguins to make it to the Conference finals. I did not expect, however, to see them win as easily and handily as they did.

I think the last few weeks of the season, and heading into the first round against Ottawa, I just felt something special was going to happen to the Pens. And I am sure that the doubters and the naysayers were saying that the NHL wants Pittsburgh to win. Typical response from these people (and I am sure that they all wear the blue and red…)

And let me get this off my chest right now. I am not a big Sid fan. I believe that he has a tremendous talent base, and is good for the league and all of that stuff. I think he will be a definite asset to the game for years to come. He is the type of guy that you hate if you play against him, but the fans in Pittsburgh are in love with him. Along with his comrade Gino, they are the best duo in hockey.

Does he dive?

He may embellish a little. I am sure that in some instances that a penalty may or may not be ready to be called, he may drop his weight to the ice, in the hopes of the referee’s hand going up.

I think he is a better player than that to just up and dive.

These naysayers also believe that the ref’s were told to give Crosby the benefit of the doubt all the time… Yes - I am sure that the post-season payouts would be taken away if they did not constantly give players like Crosby, Malkin, Hossa and others the breaks they need to win the game….

You people are so full of yourselves…

Ranger fans understand - Pittsburgh is just a better team than you, that are playing at the highest level right now. Your team did a good job - and the games were close; but the Pens are just better. I think that your team has great foundation players, and the young guys are moving up quite well. Callahan, Dubinsky, Girardi, Betts, among others are good players and will be counted upon even more, as their experience level increases. But believe me, you did not lose, because Bettman wants to see Sidney, the poster boy, be in the finals. Remember, a lot of the media were saying that Ranger fans should prepare for a parade in mid June down the Canyon of Heroes. So you thought that all of the Eastern teams should just stand aside and let you by…

uh, yea…

Anyway - am I disappointed the Rangers are out?

No.

Did I expect it?

Yes. I just thought the Pens are too much. I think they have a REAL chance to win the cup. It is just my observation that this team is peaking at the right time, and unless these guys just fall down flat, I do not expect to lose any other series. Yes - and this is a conspiracy….

Sparky’s Predictions:

Pens in 5
Detroit in 5

OH - make sure you tune into the New York Hockey Report tonight at 9PM. I should be in RARE form tonight. Make sure you check it out.

Call into the show, if you must… (646) 716-7209. Talk to you then.