PR - Young Guns

YOUNG GUNS CATCH FIRE; ADVANCE TO EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS

The cinderella story continues for the young explosive team out of Ottawa. Down three games to one in the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals, the Young Guns rallied to win 3 straight (2 on the road) to advance to the Conference Finals Monday. "We know we're a streaky bunch in here," said RW Rick Nash, "we can get hot at any time." And hot they were, with 15 goals in three games, the offense was there and, although the defense was somewhat lackluster, they got the job done in the end. "I didn't play the way I wanted to in the series, but as team we came together and really played well," said goaltender Jose Theodore at a media conference Monday.

There hasn't been one single player that has been a standout during their playoff run, however consistency and depth are perhaps more valuable. Sidney Crosby is currently leading the team in scoring with 16 points, followed by linemate Nikolai Zherdev with 15. But more significant are the contributions from their veterans. Ryan Smyth is having a great playoff run with 11 points and Shane Doan has 3 goals, 2 of which are game winners. Both players relish their chance to be on a cup contender, "it's nice to get a chance to win a championship in the latter part of your career.. makes it more special," said Ryan Smyth.

As the Young Guns look ahead, they seem to be in store for quite an explosive series with the Calgary Hurricanes. Containing current scoring leader Markus Naslund will be a key, but the team is focused on playing more team defense as a whole. "We need to be better in our own end, limit scoring chances and start collapsing down to the net as a 5 man unit," said coach Bobby Hull following the teams optional skate Monday afternoon. As always, specialty teams will be a big factor- if the Young Guns can stay hot on the Power Play the Hurricane winds won't be blowing for long.

-Ottawa Free Press