NOOT fails again

Well folks - the Blackhawks (the Rangers' best buddies for one night) got within 27 seconds of a nice, In Regulation, 2-1 win over our bitter division rivals, the Carolina Hurricanes. But it was NOOT to be (NOOT is our shorthand for "No OverTime").

At 19:33 of the 3rd period, Toumo Ruutu's power play goal tied the game at 2, and effectively sent it into overtime. Happily for us, Chicago prevailed in a shootout, but the damage was done.

Carolina a potential team we must catch to make the playoffs - was awarded one point FOR LOSING - just because they were tied at the end of the 3rd period.

So our prayers for a NOOT loss were not answered - again! And the Hurricanes parlayed their losing point into a climb from 8th place into a 6th place tie with the Pittsburgh Tuxedo Birds.

Some thought on tonight's game shortly. But for now - here's our scoreboard watching thoughts for the other Games Of Significance this evening:

Panthers and Sabres - dangerous game here as Panthers lead us by 2 points but Sabres only trail us by 3. Go Sabres, I guess.

Caps and Flyers - The Cheese Steaks, at 82 points, are more catchable. Go Caps!

Penguins and Blue Jackets - Jackets play in the other division. Go Big Blue!

Islanders and Canadians - Habs are a team we can catch. So as odd as it is to say - Go Islan... well, I can't say it, but you know what I mean.

Hurricanes and Stars - Go Stars. (Die Hurricanes).