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Former Dallas Stars goalie prospect Dan Ellis responded well to a big challenge last week when Nashville called up young netminder Pekka Rinne. Ellis responded with two huge wins (stopping 73 of 74 shots) to keep the Predators in the playoff chase.

Ellis is battling dehydration issues. He lost 13 pounds (from 186 to 173) in a win over Columbus and needed an IV after the game when he was shaking and dizzy. The Predators said Ellis (21-10-2) might start taking IVs during the second intermission, but Ellis said he hates needles and might start changing his sweat-soaked chest protector between periods.

Devils goalie Martin Brodeur is creeping up on Patrick Roy's records, and will probably take from him the crown of "greatest goalie ever" if he keeps up his pace. Brodeur, 35, headed into the weekend at 534-289-118. Roy finished his career with the most goaltender wins in history at 551-315-131.

In truth, their records are similar, but Roy's recent antics could have hockey turning against him. As owner, general manager and coach of the major junior Quebec Remparts, Roy's team was part of a brawl last week that has all of Canada up in arms – particularly the video of Roy's son Jonathan pummeling a helpless goalie.

Roy has won the Memorial Cup as a junior coach, but he has been a controversial figure in his post-NHL career. And this most recent act, in which Roy is criticized of condoning the activities of his team, could lead people to turn against him.

Pittsburgh vs. NY Rangers: NBC and Versus both know a good thing. So when the league's most popular player (Sidney Crosby) plays one of its biggest draws (Rangers), national television will be there. The teams play today in Pittsburgh (NBC) and Monday in New York (Versus).

Edmonton Oilers: They might not make the playoffs, but they certainly are making the chase in the West interesting. They were on a 12-4-0 run heading into the weekend led by Andrew Cogliano, 20, and Sam Gagner, 18. Finishing against Calgary and Vancouver, they will definitely play a role in the West.

Alexander Ovechkin: The Capitals' star winger is trying to will Washington into the playoffs, and most in the league is cheering that Ovechkin succeeds and will be around for the postseason party. Of course, there's also that battle for the league MVP that still hangs in the balance.