Barring injury, it seems that Dominik Hasek will be a spectator on the Detroit Red Wings’ bench for the remainder of the playoffs. (CP Images)
No matter what else happens in these wacky Stanley Cup playoffs, one thing that can't be overlooked is that we've probably seen Dominik Hasek play his final game in the National Hockey League.
For you poolies who took Hasek in your fantasy draft thinking the Detroit Red Wings would go deep into the playoffs, it looks as though you're out of luck. Better hope your forwards pile up the points, because your goalie won't be.
After a less than stellar performance in the opening round, a series the Red Wings must believe they were very fortunate to win, Hasek has probably overstayed his welcome, at least in Motown.
If this was indeed a swan song, it sure wasn't how it was supposed to be.
The Red Wings could very well go on to claim the Stanley Cup later this spring, but, barring injury, it will be with Chris Osgood, and not Hasek, kicking them out.
Fantasy owners who rolled the dice with Hasek may have lost any hope of winning their draft.
Thanks for the memories, Dom. Grab a seat on the bench. Oh, and here's your plane ticket.
The Nashville Predators, who weren't picked by many to push this series beyond the minimum four games, threw a scare into the Presidents Cup champions, taking it to six while being perhaps a bounce or two away from pulling the major upset.
Some would look at the Predators' valiant effort and think they actually matched up well with Detroit. Truth is, the only reason this thing wasn't over in four was because Hasek kept the Nashville Predators in the series.
Chris Osgood will now carry the mail for the Red Wings the rest of the way, thank you very much.
Two weeks ago, this was Dominik Hasek's job to lose. He lost it.
Is it the way for a legend, as unorthodox as he may have been, to make his exit? Probably not. But it's the way it seems destined to end.
Time catches up to everyone, so they say, so Hasek shouldn't take it personal. Looking for a little something to make you feel better? Check out that Martin Brodeur guy in Jersey.
Prior to this season, we weren't even sure if we would ever see Hasek play again, so be thankful. Fans were able to see another year of injuries and broken English.
Turns out it may have been one year too long.