You know the hockey season is drawing to a close when there is only one NHL game each night.

The big story from last night’s game is Sidney Crosby. He was taken out of the game by a cross check to the head from ex-Penguin Matt Niskanen.

The Pittsburgh hockey media, barely coherent at the best of times, went completely unhinged into full on conspiracy theory territory. Was it the Capitals plan all along to take out Crosby? Did Alex Ovechkin orchestrate this all with help from Vladimir Putin?

I hope you’re prepared for the non-stop Crosby coverage for the next 24 hours. We’re in the vague “no update” era of hockey injury coverage now, which means all kinds of scenarios will be floated and debated, no matter how improbable.

For the record, it was Kevin Shattenkirk who scored the game winning goal. That should add another million or so to his next contract, and it’s not like the rest Caps were playing their ‘A’ game.

Game 3: Crosby hurt in crazy game, Pens lose in OT

Capitals vs. Penguins Recap: Caps Rally for OT Win

In Case You Missed It

Kevin Papetti pondered if Erik Brannstrom should be a target for the Leafs at the NHL Draft.

Elseldo checks in on last year’s draft pick Adam Brooks, who is heading with the Regina Pats to the WHL Final for the Ed Chynoweth Cup.

Adam Brooks named WHL Player of the Week -- again - MLHS
It is the third time Brooks has received the honour his season.

Other News

On tonight’s schedule: Senators @ Rangers; Blues @ Predators.

Preventing Shots Key To Preds’ Playoff Run - On the Forecheck
If defense wins championships, this is a good start.

Flames GM Treliving gets contract extension - Postmedia
Flames’ AGM Conroy confirmed to have interviewed for Sabres GM position.

Jake Butt’s draft tumble will net him $543k insurance payout - CollegeFootballTalk
[Species: An interesting quirk reflecting the reality of modern pro-sports and finance is that you can now buy an insurance policy related to the impact of a late-season injury on your draft order selection. I would love to know what is the deductible/premium paid to obtain this coverage.]

And how have I never seen this before?

From The Branches