The Stanley Cup Playoffs began in exciting fashion Wednesday, with Montreal needing overtime to overcome the Lightning. The Penguins rallied against the Blue Jackets and the Ducks held off the Stars, both by 4-3 decisions.
Dale Weise is Montreal’s unlikely hero

Mike CarlsonNot even Dale Weise would have picked Dale Weise to score.
Obviously, based on its defensive zone coverage, Tampa Bay wasn’t expecting him to score either.
Read Article >Brendan Gallagher takes puck to throat

Harry HowHockey fight selfie


Front row seats at hockey games are always a great photo opportunity, and there is perhaps no better time to grab that perfect selfie than when two teams are trying to punch each other right in front of you.
And look at how excited he is! Well done, Lightning fan. Your Facebook friends are going to love it.
Read Article >Brandon Dubinsky turns Paul Martin inside out

Kirk IrwinPlayoff hockey in Tampa Bay may cause seizures


And then this kid showed up and did his best Hulk Hogan impersonation.
From the team that brought you Tesla Coils, this is about right.
Read Article >The playoffs begin tonight

USA TODAY SportsIt’s the most wonderful time of the year. The Stanley Cup Playoffs get underway in Tampa, Pittsburgh and Anaheim on Wednesday night, with three Game 1’s that will be available to anybody in North America with 1) a ticket 2) a television or 3) a computer. Here’s the full rundown.
Game 1, Eastern Conference First Round | Series tied 0-0
7 p.m. ET | Tampa Bay Times Forum, St. Petersburg, Fla.
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