It was a quiet Sunday in Leafland, so I thought I would get a jump on the MSM narratives and cover the Senators two-game collapse.

They choked themselves out of a playoff spot this weekend, losing to Tyler McBozak and the Panthers. These big-game losses raise questions about the ability of Swedish captain Erik Karlsson. The team had no heart on the ice, as proven by the fact they lost. There was also no obvious compete when they were humiliated by Florida Panthers' legend Dave Bolland's goal.

Where was Karlsson's leadership these past two games? I haven't heard anyone openly call for the C to be handed to Chris Neil, yet, but you have to do something about this disaster, don't you? Neil is a true character player who is good in the room.

Should Karlsson be traded this off-season? Probably. You can't win with Karlsson.

Then there's the fresh goaltending controversy. With presumed backup Anderson likely demanding a trade this off-season, will Hammond choke next season? Should the Senators package him and trade for the Leafs late first pick from Nashville? Possibly.

There are so many questions and so few answers. Senator's management refused to comment beyond "Security! This is that crazy guy in the warning the league sent out."

Senators choke hard, collapsing amidst leaership vacuum and goaltending controversy.
You just know that would be the headline if they were the Leafs.

Panthers 4 - Senators 2
When was the last game Jaromir Jagr scored a wrap-around goal? Yesterday!

Blackhawks 4 - Jets 3
Despite some of the same inconsistencies that have plagued them recently, Jonathan Toews scored in the waning seconds against the Winnipeg Jets to give the road team a narrow victory.

Capitals 5 - Rangers 2
Ovi picked up goal 48 and 49 last night. Jason Chimera also scored twice. Wait that can't be right. Wow it's true @_@

Canada splits opening weekend of Women's Worlds
After a loss to the U.S. in the first game of the tournament, the Canadians rebounded with a sound beating of Russia, 4-0.

Stellar goaltending pushes Canada past Russia at world championship
The Globe and Mail has a more detailed write-up on Canada's victory over Russia.

After season with diminished role, Flyers' Lecavalier is at a career crossroads
Owed another $2 million roster bonus this summer, Lecavalier will have made $14 million of the $22.5 million from his contract before stepping onto the ice next season. Counting buyout payments from the Lightning that run through the 2026-2027 season, Lecavalier could earn the most money of any player in NHL history, with Jaromir Jagr the only active challenger.

A study suggests more than a quarter of all hockey helmets are unsafe, including those used in the NHL. OMG Randy was right!

Sidney Crosby hits NBC analyst with puck, stitches required
You know which analyst I wish it hit?

A tale of two NCAA prospects
Who cares, McKenzie. They never have to ride the bus.

Jeffler will have a Marlies update later this morning.

From The Branches