The Marlies went into the Calder Cup Playoffs as one of the teams to beat. Their first-round series against the Utica Comets went the distance while the next two had the fine sound of broom bristles against a wooden floor. After that, Texas was the only thing standing in their way to a championship.

But it’ll only take one more win for the Marlies to lift the Calder Cup for the first time in franchise history. They haven’t gotten this close to the league’s top prize since 2012, and we all know how that ended.

To expect that it’ll be 2-0 right off the bat would be dangerous thinking. Additionally, it’s unlikely the Stars allow Calle Rosen to look like Bobby Orr in the second period.

With their backs against the wall, Texas will more than likely do whatever they can to extend the series. However, the Marlies have been dialled in since the beginning of the post-season. The thrill of the crowd at Ricoh in combination with the speed, skill, and drive to win may make that sense of urgency irrelevant.

Today could be very special for the city of Toronto. A hockey team hasn’t won a championship here in I-don’t-have-to-say-how-long-because-the-number-probably-came-to-mind-instantly. Watch it. Live it. Experience it.

In Case You Missed It

We know about size bias in drafting, but do we understand age bias? - Pension Plan Puppets
Things taken into account at the NHL Draft: size, speed, skill, etc. But Katya looks at how age can not only be a factor but create bias among teams.

Miscellaneous Leafs Thoughts: But What Does Washington’s Win Mean For The Leafs? - Pension Plan Puppets
Fulemin's latest Leafs Thoughts includes discussion on the Big Three, the Nolan Vesey trade (still can't get over that LOL), and the legend himself John Tavares.

CWHL News: Olympian Sami Jo Small hired as Toronto Furies GM - Pension Plan Puppets
The Toronto Furies goaltender Sami Jo is getting a bump up to the front office as the newest general manager!

Around the Hockey World

From seventh-round pick to AHL star

The Fallout of the Todd Nelson Departure - Winging It In Motown
Some think the Red Wings letting Todd Nelson go was a mistake. But they may be planning on re-signing Mike Green so what else is new?

Would you rather? Stanley Cup Edition - Die By The Blade
An interesting game applied to a semi-interesting situation in Buffalo.

It’s not good enough - Silver Seven
No jokes here, this is important.

Vegas can likely fit all their free agents under 2018-19 salary cap - Knights On Ice
That's the beauty of cap space. If George McPhee wanted to, he could keep the Golden Knights together for another ride. But how would they sign Karlsson and Tavares...?

Goodbye, Swede Prince - Arctic Ice Hockey
For those about to Tobias (Enstrom), we salute you.

In praise of Alex Ovechkin's rowdy Stanley Cup celebrations - Sportsnet.ca
Alex Ovechkin isn't holding back in his new life as a Stanley Cup Champion, but you would be doing the same if people were telling your team couldn't win with you for 10+ years.

Staal added to OHA Edmonton coaching staff
The fourth Staal brother is moving from on-ice play to the realm of the coaches.

If you’re planning to catch the game at the Coliseum feel free to say hey to Species and Hardev up in Section 102. Also, if you see a Brown #12 jersey, I don’t bite either.

From The Branches