It has been ten days since we last saw the Norfolk Admirals in action, but it seems even longer. All I have to say is, “thank god it’s Friday.”
The Ads take on the Toronto Marlies in Game 1 of the Calder Cup Final series. Four wins takes it all. There are all kinds of previews available:
Tyler Johnson contributes more than just offense to Admirals’ postseason run
Admirals rookie Tyler Johnson brings championship experience, improved two-way play into AHL Final
Admirals/Marlies Gameday Notebook
Dan Marrazza’s notes from practice today, including info on injuries. Unsurprisingly, neither Scott Jackson nor his beard will be available.
Tampa Bay Lightning AHL affiliate Norfolk heads for Calder Cup final
Damien Cristodero talks about the 2011-12 Admirals’ place in AHL history
Marlies gear up for Cup final
The Toronto Sun’s series preview has some good things to say about the Ads, including this tidbit from Marlies coach Dallas Eakins: “Everyone who had played against them has told us they didn’t (set the mark) by accident. They’re that good that it’s easy to win 28 in a row.”
And the Admirals sent out game notes including some very interesting numbers:
- Of the 20 skaters to have appeared in a game for the Admirals in the 2012 Calder Cup Playoffs, all 20 have points, 17 have goals, 16 have an even or better plus/minus rating, 10 have game-winning goals and nine have power play goals.
- Of the 26 skaters to have appeared in a game for the Marlies in the 2012 Calder Cup Playoffs, 22 have an even or better plus/minus rating, 19 have points, 14 have goals, seven have game-winning goals and five have power play goals. /
And lest we forget, at the trade deadline this season, a deal between the Lightning and the Maple Leafs sent Carter Ashton to Toronto for Keith Aulie. The teams have never met in either regular or postseason play.
Radio: 1021thegame.com and NHL Home Ice on satellite radio. Game starts at 7:30pm ET.
