Zak MacMillan: CBJ G82 v New York Islanders — Johnny B Proud

not a fan of either Mtl or BJ's but the NHL should have rules regarding the players required to play a game that has this much impact on the playoffs. Unless players were hurt and not able to play the Hurricanes should have iced a team that resembles their team all year.

If a player skips the all-star game, they get fined or suspended the next game if it isn't injury related.

Hurricanes should have to ice the team they iced against Mtl for the first game of the playoffs.

Monkman,

Such a rule as you propose is unenforceable, for at least 5 reasons I can think of. Carolina did what was in Carolina's best interest, whatever they think it is.

The reality is that the CBJ had its chances to get more points than Montreal and didn't get it done. There are many reasons for it, most of them are not the team's fault. But it doesn't matter.

I am disappointed the CBJ did not make it in, this team was good enough to get in in spite of the injuries, and even losing Johnny Hockey. They didn't, and while they had a good season, you can't change the past.