Markov Skates

Andrei Markov is skating again after suffering a knee injury against the Pittsburgh Penguins. That is excellent news for the Canadiens, as they get ready to take on the winner of game seven between the Flyers and the Bruins. Markov's return would give Montreal's blue line a big boost on the power play and make their unlikely bid for the cup a closer reality. Betting that his knee is a 100 percent would be foolish, but if it is good enough to play well then Montreal is in luck.

Markov's injury was a bitter-sweet problem for the Canadiens. It facilitated the surprising emergence of P.K. Subban as a legitimate force on Monreal's blue line. It is unlikely that Markov's return would put Subban out of the lineup. Subban is now one of their stronger and best playing defensemen and one of the big reasons they were able to beat Pittsburgh.

Boston and Philadelphia will hold a size and physical advantage over Montreal. If Markov is able to play, it will give the Canadiens more tools to manage the defensive responsibilities.

Blackhawks vs Sharks - First Game Sunday

The Sharks and Blackhawks anxiously await to get going in their conference finals bid. Both teams have been strong in the playoffs this year and both pack a variety of strengths. NHL betting odds are favoring the Sharks to take game one, but not by much. Game one will give us a better idea on how these two will stack up in this matchup.

Whoever wins this series, will be the favorite for the cup. Both the Sharks and Blackhawks are stronger teams than the ones remaining in the Eastern conference. This matchup is worthy of the finals. EA Sports predicted that Chicago would win the cup, and that prediction may yet hold true. Unless of course Halak decides to be a super hero and steal the Stanley Cup this year.