PIERRE McGUIRE'S In the Crease

One early playoff revelation: Blackhawks defenseman Brent Seabrook (below), with his steady play and strong puck moving alongside partner Duncan Keith. Seabrook, 24, is one of 14 Hawks who are 25 or younger.... Speaking of youth movements, longtime officials Rob Shick and Don Koharski retired this season, and two other older officials, Kerry Fraser, 56, and Dan Marouelli, 53, didn't get first-round assignments. The league is putting a premium on younger refs who are speedier skaters.... As if playoff pressure weren't enough, some players are also auditioning for the Olympics. The Sharks' Patrick Marleau and Chicago's Jonathan Toews are borderline to make Team Canada; Ranger Brandon Dubinsky hopes to make Team USA.

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