Looking at how big Pronger has been in the second round for Edmonton, I've got to say that Lidstrom really did not play up to expectations. It's been quite a few years since he had a strong playoffs.

We keeping looking at Yzerman and Shanny, but Lidstrom is also a major piece of the puzzle. In my experience, teams need to match positionally in the playoffs. You counter a hot goalie with your own superb goaltending. You match speed with speed.

We lost out on the blue line, in the crease and lastly at the forwards. Those are "foundation" positions.

The formula is simple in the NHL playoffs. You have to be deep, fast, physical and aggressive. The Wings only fulfilled one of those criteria.

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Momma was queen of the mambo, Poppa was king of the congo, deep down in the jungle, I start banging my first bongo
Every monkey like to be, in my place instead of me, cause I'm the king of bongo baby, I'm the king of bongo bong
-Manu Chao

Drapes is tough but is he effective?
Contracts had nothing to do with my post.
Go ahead and lose 6...you need it.

I think Lidstrom was on for 5 goals against.

Well we let the Oil earn their way to the Finals. Little consolation but the best playoff team beat us... again.

I meant to add, there is talk of making Lids captain but some want Zetts.