Your Weekly Michigan State Spartans in the NHL Report....

The 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs intensified this week, as the field narrowed to twelve teams. Playoff hockey is a marvel to behold, and five Spartans experienced

The 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs intensified this week, as the field narrowed to twelve teams. Playoff hockey is a marvel to behold, and five Spartans experienced the exciting action firsthand this week. But only two of those five now remain alive in the playoffs.

One of the teams eliminated this week was the Detroit Red Wings. The season ended for Drew Miller and Justin Abdelkader on Friday, as the Predators finished off Detroit in a 2-1 game five victory. Abdelkader had 4 shots and 3 hits in a loss in game four on Tuesday. Miller had two shots, one hit, and one blocked shot in the season finale.

Duncan Keith and the BlackHawks fell behind 3-2 in their series against the Coyotes. Chicago won once and dropped two games in overtime this week. Keith peppered the net with shots, with over 30 attempted shots in three contests. The BlackHawks must win at home on Monday to survive.

Defenseman Mike Weaver helped the Panthers force the Devils to the brink of elimination. Florida has claimed a 3-2 series lead after a 2-1 record this week. Weaver notched his first ever playoff goal in game three, firing home a wrist shot from the point, tying the contest at 3 early in the second period. Florida added the game-winning goal later in the game to claim a 4-3 victory. Weaver and the Panthers can finish off New Jersey in game six on Tuesday.

The season came to an end for David Booth and the Canucks on Sunday, as the Kings triumphed 2-1 in overtime. Vancouver fell behind 3-0 in the series before capturing game four on Wednesday. Booth contributed the primary assist on the game winning goal, which was his first playoff point. But Los Angeles finished the Canucks off on Sunday, moving on to a second round matchup with the Blues.