Asa, I understand how you feel about the Blues. They've been a really solid franchise since their inception under the Solomon family and Scotty Bowman's first head coaching job. They were the class of the first expansion wave, and Red Berenson was one of the first superstars of that new era. Six goals in one game! I remember those three consecutive Cup finals from 1968-70. Montreal and Boston really had to work hard to get those wins. I remember those grizzled veterans like Plante and Hall in nets, Al Arbor on defense, Dickie Moore, Gary Sabourin, and so on. I remember how cool it was when they played 'When the Blues Come Skating In' before their games. Lots of fun and energy in the old Checkerdome. And so many great players in the years since. Just some bad luck in various playoff matchups. They still are a very good team now, but had the bad luck to face the Kings, who match up well against them with their size and depth. The Blues played a good series and probably gained more respect around the league than they had before the playoffs. They have a lot of talent, and some desirable players that could be packaged in various trades to upgrade their scoring. With the changes in the salary cap there will be many teams scrambling to put their rosters in order.

GT, great take on the Maple Leafs! A real juicy project for some sports sociological analysis.

Dave, the Sharks looked great in the first round. I know the Kings are on a roll now, but I just have a feeling they won't be able to sustain it like they did last year. Those late season trades and adjustments give the Sharks great balance and depth. If they can win one in L.A. they have a realistic chance of taking the series. The Kings are so opportunistic and methodical and never deviate from their game. If they fall behind early or Quick isn't at his best they might leave themselves open. The Sharks strength up the middle is impressive, but they have to take the play into the offensive zone and pressure the L.A. defense. If they can get some power plays they have the fire power to score some goals.