In Search Of Stanley

As the NHL prepares to drop the puck on the Stanley Cup playoffs tonight, an extensive look at the health of the league by the Calgary Herald concludes that Canadian franchises have moved “out of the poor house, while several U.S. markets are now in survival mode.” However, it is three resurgent U.S. markets -- Chicago, DC and Boston -- helping lead the NHL to a slight increase in regular-season attendance, as each of the playoff-bound franchises record double-digit bumps in their home gate. Coming off a regular season in which it recorded solid growth in ratings, Versus is hoping to capitalize on several intriguing first-round matchups. The net will air a minimum of 50 playoff games and has lined up several prominent sports sponsors for its wall-to-wall coverage. Meanwhile, the Islanders are again sitting out the postseason, but winning the draft lottery -- and possibly John Tavares -- has team execs and fans hopeful about the future.