NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – May 18, 2019
NHL Morning Coffee Headlines – May 18, 2019
Blues tie Western Conference Final at two games apiece, John Davidson returns to the Rangers, Stanley Cup Final schedule released, and more in today’s NHL morning coffee Headlines.
NHL.COM: The St. Louis Blues held off the San Jose Sharks 2-1 to tie the Western Conference Final at two games apiece. Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington made 29 saves while Ivan Barbashev and Tyler Bozak were the St. Louis goal scorers. Tomas Hertl replied for San Jose. There’s concern over the status of Sharks defenseman Erik Karlsson, who spent a significant amount of time on the bench in the third period in obvious discomfort.

San Jose Sharks defenseman Erik Karlsson appeared to be hampered by an injury during a Game 4 loss to the St. Louis Blues in the Western Conference Final (Photo via NHL Images).
SPECTOR’S NOTE: This was a solid bounce-back by the Blues from their controversial loss in Game 3. Binnington once again displayed his remarkable ability to shake off a tough loss with a strong follow-up performance.
As for Karlsson, we’ll learn more about his status between now and Game 5 on Sunday afternoon in San Jose. If it’s his nagging groin injury flaring up it could have consequences for the Sharks in this series.
The 2019 Stanley Cup Final will begin on Monday, May 27 in Boston as the Bruins host either the Sharks or Blues.
NEW YORK POST: John Davidson stepped down as president of hockey operations for the Columbus Blue Jackets to take the same position with the New York Rangers. Davidson spent most of his NHL playing career with the Rangers and was their lead analyst on national broadcasts for 19 years.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: It’ll be interesting to see how Davidson’s hiring affects the Rangers’ rebuild.
TSN: The NHL’s unrestricted free agent interview period begins on June 23 at 12:01 am ET. The restricted free agent contact period begins three days later on June 26. “During the period, pending free agents will be able to meet with prospective teams, but are not permitted to discuss contract details. The NHL’s free agency period will open on July 1 at noon ET.”
SPORTSNET: Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Igor Ozhiganov signed with KHL club AK Bars Kazan.
ARIZONA SPORTS: Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun donated $10,000.00 to The New Foundation, “a local foundation that focuses on mental health awareness.”