Puckhead Nation #14 | The Cerebral Vortex

Here's a sampling from this week's edition of Puckhead Nation, the discussion forum at Informative Sports where five of our hockey writers (Ethan Calof, Zach Bigalke, Chris Capcara, Mac Brody, and Michael Hanson) debate topics pertinent to the NHL and the greater world of hockey today. This free-flowing and dynamic discussion is something never seen among the major media outlets:

Zach: So, guys, it's been just a few days since we met last. By the looks of the first few games, it looks like some of our predictions are shakier than others. Here's to hoping that Ethan is out there somewhere reveling in his joy, because unfortunately his erudite tendencies have him elsewhere. Well, at least we were able to get him in for the Saturday special.

So the first two games are in the books. We've seen Detroit jump out to the same old 2-0 series lead that we saw last year. The Penguins came out with a little more life, but the result was nearly the same... just two goals scored for Pittsburgh versus none last year through two games. What are your thoughts on this series? (And is that beard getting itchy yet, Chris?)
Michael: So Game 1 went 3-1 for the Wings. And then it went 3-1 two games in a row. I feel bad for the Pens, they couldn't have played a better game, but Chris Osgood, my man for the Smythe, was incredible and Detroit got some lucky bounces. The second period was where Detroit won it. Pittsburgh completely controlled the frame, but Detroit got the only goal out of it. That goal was deflating.
Zach: The Penguins definitely looked a lot better in Game 1 at Joe Louis Arena this year than they did in their maiden Cup voyage last season. They played with a lot more confidence, but simply couldn't find the net behind Osgood. I have long been one of Ozzie's detractors, but he's proven the past several seasons that Detroit might've been foolish for ever letting him go or seeking another netminder. What would this Red Wings squad have accomplished with him in net for the whole time from their first Cup run in 1997 to the present?
Michael: I don't think they were hurt by bringing Hasek aboard.
Zach: No, probably not...

Come check out the rest of this week's issue by clicking here...