The Fifth Liners

Patrick Kane continued his impressive playoff performance and put in a first star performance to gain the Chicago Blackhawks an impressive 3-1 win over the Boston Bruins at the United Center last night and as a result they take a 3-2 lead in the series and lie just one game away from the ultimate prize! Kane struck late in the first period and bagged his eight goal of the playoffs 17 minutes in when he backhanded the puck into the bottom left corner of Tuukka Rask ’s net when Johnny Oduya ’s shot shattered Dennis Seidenberg ’s stick and fortuitously slid into his path! The Blackhawks skilfully used their pace and made use of the extra space available to frustrate the Bruins defence- meanwhile Corey Crawford was proving a wall in a net and it would prove to be that way for the remainder of this fixture. Chicago fans didn’t have long to wait for Kane’s ninth goal as after less than 5 minutes played, he scored high into the Boston net put the Hawks 2-0 to good! But the per...

After Sidney Crosby's horrific jaw injury suffered a few weeks ago, it cut short what was so far a stunning season and has officially ruled him out for the remainder of the year. Also it prevents him from being able to add another Hart Trophy is his already impressive collection! So with Sid the Kid out of the picture we must turn to another of the excellent candidates on show in the 2012/13 NHL Season. Ladels and Jellyspoons, here are your main contenders... Steven Stamkos (Tampa Bay Lightning) The closest overall to Crosby points wise with 49 and the top overall goal scorer with 26 goals, Tampa Bay's renowned centre has proved to be a bright spot in their otherwise horrible season. With a goal scoring touch like this, we can only shake our heads in disbelief that his team doesnt follow his good example. Would be nice to Stamkos rewarded for his continually excellent play. Patrick Kane (Chicago Blackhawks) This man is by far the most talente...

In news that will surprise nobody, there'll be no extended summer holiday period for the Chicago Blackhawks , their 5-3 win over the Nashville Predators at the United Centre last night sealed the first playoff spot for the Western. Goals by Toews , Saad , Shaw , Bickell and Kane did the job for the Hawks. Although Legwand , Spaling and Weber all netted for the Preds, they continued Nashville's season-long tradition of losing to Chicago. Nashville are sat 13th in the conference and while mathematically they have a chance of a playoff spot, it would take a huge stroke of luck to be in with a chance of reaching the cup. At the other end of the conference, the Detroit Red Wings made life more difficult by losing 1-0 to St. Louis Blues at the Joe Louis. Blues Chris Porter  scored the only goal in what was a very tight game. The Wings' offense out-shot the Blues but were unable to find the back of the net. Goalies Brian Elliot and Jimmy Howard took the 1st and 2nd star...

Here's some of my predictions for 2012/2013 individual awards based on performances so far. Sadly there's no Red Wings players in there, still time to change that though boys! Go Wings.  Hart Memorial Trophy Sidney Crosby (PIT) - Current overall points leader, Crosby hasn't netted as many as others in the league but he's top of the table for assists. For me, this defines a team player and Crosby is the best so far.  Lady Byng Memorial Trophy Patrick Kane (CHI) - There's no dispute over Kane's skillset, his excellent points total speaks for itself. What sets Kane apart his overall conduct. He's a playmaker on the ice and although still young, his disciplinary record and points tally is an inspiration for his team.  Vezina Award Corey Crawford (CHI) - The Blackhawk's phenomenal winning streak is in part down to Crawford's effort between the sticks. Calder Memorial Trophy Jake Muzzin (LAK) - 27 games, 8 goals and...