Chris Ferraro’s NHL First-Round Game 1 Recaps

Chris Ferraro | Updated April 16

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Ottawa Senators 5 – 4 Pittsburgh Penguins
Pittsburgh goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury struggled with rebound control as Malkin and Crosby had 3 point performances to carry the offense. As a team, the Pens effort didn’t match up with Ottawa’s and it cost them game 1 of the series.

The Senators’ solid defensive system, physical play from the defense core and the stellar goaltending from Brian Elliot was the difference here. Expect the Sens to carry this momentum into game 2 with hopes of stealing both games at Melon Arena and putting the Stanley Cup Champs in a 2-0 deficit.


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Philadelphia Flyers 2 – 1 New Jersey Devils

Philadelphia’s physical, intimidating, aggressive style threw the Devils off their game plan, while goaltender Brian Boucher was hot between the pipes and team leader Richards scored the game winner to take Game 1 in New Jersey.
New Jersey’s minor mistakes cost them game 1. The team looked off due to Philadelphia’s reckless style and just couldn’t adjust and get it together in enough time. They will have to wait for game 2.


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Buffalo Sabres 2 – 1 Boston Bruins

Buffalo’s goalie Ryan Miller had 38 saves for a great performance as Thomas Vanek was perfect, playing smart, physical, and disciplined which led to the first goal of the contest.

Boston’s goaltender Rask put forth a solid effort in game 1 and gave the team a legitimate chance. It was a very physical from both teams. Some bad blood is brewing early on. Stay tuned.


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Phoenix Coyotes 3 – 2 Detroit Red Wings

Coyote’s got exactly what they were looking for in game 1. To get off to a good start! The passion, desire, and determination of this young club didn’t disappoint.

Detroit’s effort needs to match the feisty Coyotes in every game because they will be challenged, but the Wings have the experience to force Phoenix to stay on top of their game.


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Colorado Avalanche 2 – 1 San Jose Sharks

Colorado’s lucky bounce to win the game was a product of them creating their own luck. Outstanding effort defensively with patient goaltending from Anderson was enough for the Avs to win game 1.

San Jose’s average effort from Joe Thornton was no surprise in yet another big game. “Effort and Execution” was in favor of the Avalanche in this game. Regroup Sharks or it will be all over soon.


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Montreal Canadians 3 – 2 Washington Capitals

Montreal’s goaltender Jaraslov Halak faced over 50 shots to give his team an All-Star performance in game 1. The Habs played aggressive both offensively and defensively and deserved to win this one.

Washington’s Alexander Ovechkin had 0 shots on net, looked very hesitant instead of the “take charge” Ovechkin we all know, and made a poor line change in overtime which led to a 3-2 break that resulted in the game winner by Montreal’s Plekanec. Theodore had no chance on the game winner, but played extremely well in the upsetting loss.


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Vancouver Canucks 3 – 2 Los Angeles Kings

It was a fast, physical,intense, up and down Game 1 for both teams.  Mikael Samuelson was on a mission playing physical, creating opportunities and as a result he was able to score twice, including the overtime winner.  Alexander Edler was a physical force and gave a “Scott Stevens” like performance as he punished his opponents.  Goaltender Roberto Luongo made a huge save in overtime to keep the game alive which helped give the Canucks the win in Game 1.

Los Angeles Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick was tested very early and was ready for the challenge facing 17 shots in the first period.  The Kings were mostly outplayed, but kept pressing with goals from Stoll and Modin to tie the game and force and force it into overtime.  Los Angeles should be upset with the loss, but satisfied with their effort and overall performance.