Outside Looking In

We’re biding our time until the NHL Combine.

• Dig into this long read about Paul Vincent, the private coach who is retiring from his work in the Panthers ‘ organization at this point, packing his blackout goggles and focusing on young Massachusetts NHLers like Matt Benning .[TheBostonGlobe]


• The NHL combine is another chance for the Bruins to choose wisely. Will they?[TheBostonGlobe]


• Matt’s dad, Jim Benning, claims that the Bruins won the cup in 2011 without all those fussy ole fancystats. Well, let’s just use our eyes to take a closer look at that assertion, shall we?[TodaysSlapShot]


• And don’t get all cozy with Winningest Bruins Head Coach Claude Julien, the most recent moves by management are all setting the stage for his exit.[CausewayCrowd]


• Max Talbot was in the house to cheer on his former team in their win.[Imgur, via Reddit]

Elsewhere around the rink:

• Team Kessel or Team Thornton? Look back at the departures of these two former Bruins, and make your decision for the Stanley Cup Final.[TheBostonGlobe] Doesn’t it just seem sometimes like the Penguins and Sharks have more ties to the Bruins than any other NHL team? And there will always be TWO special reason to not favor the Pens.[Hockeybuzz] And don’t forget the Mike Sullivan connection! [WEEI]


• Jump into the fray- which contender has the winning NARRATIVE?[PuckDaddy]


• Whatever your preference, the Penguins have leaped out to a one game lead.[NationalPost]


• Even if you still hold a grudge against meanie spoilsport Joel Ward , he is right. The NHL should retire Willie O’Ree ’s number.[TorontoSun]


• The London Knights have raised the Memorial Cup after defeating the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.[TheGlobeAndMail]