Hockey Headlines: Goodbye, Blackhawks

A collection of the latest news from around the world of hockey:

The St. Louis Blues eliminated the Blackhawks, and the hockey world rejoiced. I’m pretty sure everyone outside of Chicago was a Blues fan last night. The Hawks went from being a dynasty to the most hated team in hockey. I’m not sure if it’s because of Patrick Kane, or because the Hawks lose players every year yet still remain great. In any case, they’re gone, and we will have a new Stanley Cup champion this season. The Blues almost let it slip away, and former Blackhawk Troy Brouwer almost became the goat of the century, but they got the job done, and now we can switch our focus to Vladimir Tarasenko’s limited ice time. [Yardbarker], [Yahoo], [Sportsnet], [The Hockey News]

Patrick Kane: “It just doesn’t really feel right.” #Blackhawks

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) April 26, 2016

I disagree, Pat.

We’re going to have another game 7, folks. The Predators beat the Ducks last night to even the series, and on Wednesday night it’s win or go home in Anaheim. The Ducks will quickly be faced with their playoff demons, as they’ve lost the last four game 7’s they’ve played in. Will this be the year they slay the dragon, or will the Preds be moving on? [On the Forecheck], [LA Times]

But before we get to that, the Islanders and Lightning will face off in their second-round series. [Todays Slapshot]

The Flyers gave it their best shot, but they were outmatched by a superior Capitals squad. [AOSN]

It just seemed as though the Red Wings cared more about making the playoffs for a 25th straight year than actually doing damage when they got there. Now, with a roster that leaves much to be desired, what’s next for Detroit? [CBS], [WXYZ]

The Rangers have some tricky salary cap decisions ahead. [Oilers Nation]

And finally, the Pens/Capitals series should be a dandy. [Times Online]