Friday's notes: Predators prospects prospering

Chris will be in charge here for the next several days, as I'm taking a bit of a vacation. There are a couple stories already in the pipeline for Monday & Tuesday, however, so don't think I'm letting you off easy!

Remember to check out the online auction tied to the NHLtweetup on June 7 - Mark has added more items, including the Alex Ovechkin hat and Rod Brind'Amour jersey, so start bidding! Remember, all proceeds go Middle Tennessee flood relief efforts.

After the jump we've got more encouraging news about the Nashville Predators' prospects. One is honored for his outstanding achievements this season, while another is profiled in the Hockey News for the big step forward he took in his development...

Last Night In The Playoffs

Montreal 5, Philadelphia 1: The Habs struck back on home ice with a convincing win, as Jaroslav Halak put in yet another fine effort. It doesn't sound like the Flyers were surprised. Montreal has a chance to tie the series up 2-2 if they can win Game Four tomorrow.

Predators News

Casting the 2009-2010 Nashville Predators movie - Nashville Predators Examiner
Jim Diamond chimes in with a hilarious exercise, and his casting choices for the Preds' coaching staff are inspired!

The Hockey News: Prospect Watch: Taylor Beck
The Guelph Storm right winger broke out in a big way this season and is following in the footsteps of Predators picks before him.

Madison Sports Hall of Fame: Mason, Heaslett and Rosenstock named year's top athletes
A current and future Predator are being honored at a special event in Madison, Wisconsin.

Around the NHL

Welcome… home?: ‘Hawks check into hotel, hope for road success in Game 3 | Blackhawk Up | A Chicago Blackhawks Blog
Since they've been rolling along on the road, the Blackhawks decide to check into a hotel prior to their home game tonight.

Sharks must give Hawks taste of own medicine - NHL.com
Can the Sharks answer back like the Habs did last night? Ken Hitchcock provides a winning formula.

mc79hockey.com - Khabibulin Trial
Nikolai Khabibulin's DUI from a few months ago could have an impact on the Oilers next season.

Montreal writer finds Philly vandal on Facebook | Philadelphia Inquirer
What's dumber, a Philly fan vandalizing a Montreal sportswriter's car, or posting a picture on Facebook about it???

Russia gets Olympic revenge on Canada with win - NHL.com - News
This is a classic win-win situation. The Russians can claim redemption for their Olympic embarrassment, while the Canadians can take solace in the fact that nobody cares about the World Championships, anyway.

Not a moment too soon, Kevin Lowe promises to "get out of the free agent business." - Cult of Hockey
Let's frame this one on the wall, and check back after a summer or two, shall we?

Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation Announces Donation to Support Flood Restoration Efforts in Tennessee
A nice gesture from our Central Division rivals.