Bearded Ice – June 1

MiHockey staffer Stefan Kubus here to help kick off June with some Bearded Ice to get you all caught up to speed.

Quick hits

First off, what’s going on with Tim Thomas? Apparently he might be taking a season off, reports USA Today and plenty of other sites. We’ll be watching for more news on this subject.

In case you missed it, check out our Michi-gamer from yesterday (HINT: He’s not actually from the Mitten)

And we don’t want to bombard you with details, because you already know that Nick Lidstrom retired. However, here’s our article on the press conference, which is worth a read. 

Follow along with Ann Arbor native Jacob Trouba’s 2012 NHL Entry Draft Combine blog for great insight into a prospect’s journey through the pre-draft experience.

Highlight reel

There’s countless tributes out there, but this video really made his retirement sink in a little more for me. We’ll miss you, No. 5!

Outside the Mitten

The Stanley Cup Final is on break until Saturday night at 8pm, when the puck will drop on Game 2 between the Kings and Devils. L.A. currently holds the 1-0 series lead. But don’t worry those of you rooting for the Devils, because New Jersey has yet to win a Game 1 this postseason. On the same token, the Kings have won every Game 1 so far, so something will have to give in this final series.

Check it out

We’ve compiled some of the best tweets we’ve seen from other players and NHL personalities about Lidstrom – check them out right here.

Next up

Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final is not until tomorrow night, so hang tight, folks! Take care, and enjoy your day!