Ducks Down Rafalski-less Wings, 'Nucks Take Game Three

Once again, I insist, do not bet on the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Because of the parity? No. Because of the freakin' NHL disclosure policy.

Who would've guess that Brian Rafalski was going to miss the first three games of the Wings' semi-finals match-up?

If the first three games have told us anything, it is that Detroit is dearly missing Rafalski. 59 points. A plus 17. But above all, he adds a level of calmness to the Detroit back-line and top power-play unit. Guys like Jonathon Eriksson are playing too much. Chris Chelios, although I admire the guy, has no business playing in an NHL playoff game, as exhibited when he got burned with an outlet pass that sprung Teemu Selanne for a breakway which he cashed for the first goal of the game.

Despite solid statistics, I think Henrik Zetterberg has had a very vanilla second round. Marian Hossa, who got jipped out of the tying goal because the ref lost sight of the puck, has been making bad decisions with the puck in the offensive zone. Pavel Datsyuk, who has been creating numerous scoring chances and was easily the best Wing in Game Three, has yet to put his mark on this series.

Anaheim deserves much of the credit. Their second through fourth lines are playing much better than expected, Ryan Getzlaf has been hands down the best forward in the series, and Scott Niedermayer and Chris Pronger are playing like it's 2007.

Teemu Selanne seemed to really have some jump last night. If he can provide them with some secondary scoring at even strength outside the Perry-Getzlaf-Ryan line, that will continue to be a huge boost for the Ducks.

The Wings will need to finish their scoring chances and convert on their power-play opportunities to have success in Game Four. Having Brian Rafalski back on the blue-line wouldn't hurt either...

Last night in Chicago, the Canucks were able to work their way to a 2-1 series lead.

The Sedins continued to produce, Roberto Luongo was Roberto Luongo, and the 'Nucks role players were able to do their jobs.

Making the win even more impressive was the fact that they played without Pavol Demitra and Sami Salo. Mason Raymond was able to step into Demitra's role and notch the first goal of the game off of a gorgeous Ryan Kesler assist. The Canucks' team defense was excellent despite the absence of Salo.

Although the Hawks didn't get the result they would've liked, Hawks' Coach Joel Quenneville had to be impressed with the efforts of Brian Campbell. The expensive Chicago rearguard was constantly joining the rush and making things happen. He scored Chicago's lone goal, and also had a centering pass redirect off of the post behind Roberto Luongo in the third period.

If the Hawks are to win Game Four, they will need to get more than 24 shots on the Canucks' Captain...