Yesterday, the Carolina Hurricanes rallied in the third period to beat the Islanders 2-1. The game winning goal came from the stick of Nino Niederreiter.

Why is this notable? Because, as Katya reminded me after the game, Nino Niederreiter was originally a member of the New York Islanders, the team he just helped beat. Back in 2013, he was traded to Minnesota for Cal Clutterbuck and a 3rd round pick. Let’s look at their numbers since that trade...

  • Niederreiter: 124 goals, 134 assists in 470 games.
  • Clutterbuck: 55 goals, 64 assists in 441 games, but he did form part of “the best fourth line in the NHL”!/

Now, you might be wondering about that third round pick that the Islanders got. They used it to select current Growler/Marlie, Eamon McAdam, who they traded to Toronto to get Clutterbuck’s buddy — Matt Martin — back from the Leafs!

It’s remarkable that Niederreiter was involved in two of the worst trades in the cap era. I’m just waiting for Taylor Hall to get traded for Erik Gudbranson or something to tie that record.

ONTO THE LINKS!

The NHL has released their finalists for both the Hart Trophy...

And the Willie O’Ree award.

European Report: Championship Dreams | by Katya

Looking at other players that are part of the Leafs’ organization still playing this year...

The Guelph Storm stayed alive and forced another game 7 vs Saginaw, thanks in part to FEDOR GORDEEV!

Filip Kral’s Spokane Chiefs were eliminated, but Ian Scott’s Prince Albert Raiders advanced to the conference finals of the WHL.

NHL PLAYOFFS

Carolina Hurricanes lead the New York Islanders 2-0

Game 2 recap: Smash and Grab | Canes Country

Hurricanes 2, Islanders 1: New York in 0-2 hole after failing to capitalize in Game 2 | Lighthouse Hockey

The Colorado Avalanche win game 2 by a score of 4-3, tie series vs San Jose Sharks at 1-1

Game 2: Colorado Avalanche hold on for a 4-3 win in San Jose | Mile High Hockey

Avalanche 4, Sharks 3: Sharks Barrie’d by Colorado’s stars in Game 2 | Fear The Fin

Let’s end this on a hilarious note.

Happy Monday everyone!

From The Branches