Dan’s Daily: Tom Wilson Faces Big Suspension; Penguins Face Must Win

DALLAS — The Pittsburgh Penguins know this weekend is their last chance to make a credible claim to be in the playoff race. Tonight in Dallas is essentially a must-win. There was a swift and loud and polarized reaction to the Mike Sullivan critique. The Detroit Red Wings surged to a win, and they looked like a good team with the return of captain Dylan Larkin. In the process, Detroit may have put the dagger in the New York Islanders. Also the Washington Capitals’ charge to the final playoff spot may be without Tom Wilson, who has an in-person hearing today for high-sticking.

Oh, and the Vegas Golden Knights suddenly find themselves in a playoff race. I recognize those Stanley Cup-weary legs late in the season. They know how to get there, but not everyone on every night, has enough juice.

I got some authentic Dallas BBQ and retreated to the hotel to write and watch hockey last evening. I’m sure Dallas is a lovely city, but the sprawling suburban landscape really does take away that vibrant city feel. The Penguins changed their mind and will practice Saturday at 11 a.m., just a few minutes from the airport. My flight is at 1:15 p.m. This is going to be interesting.

But down the street from my hotel was Ferris Wheelers, a little sawdust-type party spot with picnic tables, a stage, and a small Ferris wheel in the back. I happily sat inside and gobbled up some good cheap grub. Don’t worry, the $4 can of beer was on my personal card. I couldn’t get enough of the orange mustard sauce, and usually, I despise the mustard-based sauces. It was GOOD.

Pittsburgh Penguins

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: The Jeff Carter injury update and the yo-yo of recalls continued with another Penguins defenseman.

The reaction to my critique, good and bad, of coach Mike Sullivan was interesting. And passionate. Sometimes insightful. And sometimes unhinged. Reaction and more responses on the Penguins coach.

Dave Molinari put the big question to the guys in the room. They’re out of time to get on a roll, and this weekend could be the knockout punch. So, Dave asked point blank in the Penguins locker room.

NHL News & National Hockey Now

ESPN: Tom Wilson has been summoned to the principal’s office. After a flagrant high-stick penalty on Wednesday, he’ll meet with the league, and the suspension could be BIG. We’re talking more than five games.

The funny thing is–this time, I don’t think he meant to do it quite in the way he did.

32 Thoughts: The absolute must-read column every week. More on the Coyotes, the Capitals rebuild that might see them in the playoffs, the Sean Couturier situation, and 29 other thoughts.

Detroit Hockey Now: The Red Wings have stunk. I mean, they’ve been clear-the-room stinky without Dylan Larkin. However, the captain returned Thursday night, and they looked pretty darn good. Larkin scored a pair against the Islanders, and the Detroit Red Wings are back in command.

NYI Hockey Now: From the flip side, it wasn’t quite a mortal blow, but it’s close. The Islanders are winless in six, and it’s the wrong time of year eat dirt. The loss from the New York Islanders perspective.

TSN Insiders: A bit more on the Columbus Blue Jackets search for a new GM. They report it’s 30-40 names deep?!

Philly Hockey Now: The Flyers pushed the Hurricanes to OT but lost. However, it was one of those “good points” and the worst nightmare for Penguins fans — the Philadelphia Flyers are feeling good.

That’s all for today. The Marriott offers a lovely room. And $5 cans of soda and awful internet. The joys of the road.