First Down

WEEKEND REWIND ” IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Penguins win Stanley Cup - It seemed inevitable the Penguins would win the Cup before the Capitals since they boast two of the world’s best players in Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. That became evident during the Red Wings series, in which Crosby scored just one goal but the Penguins still won. The Caps likely won’t win a playoff series with Alex Ovechkin held to one goal, but they need to find another world-class player to pair with No. 8 if they want to match the Penguins’ success.

Acta under fire - According to FoxSports.com’s Ken Rosenthal, the Nationals are prepared to fire manager Manny Acta possibly as soon as Monday. That was news to Acta, who was seen laughing with team president Stan Kasten and acting general manager Mike Rizzo before Saturday’s game. Either way, it’s clear the Acta Era will be coming to an end at some point in the near future, whether it’s soon or at the end of the season. Here’s hoping Acta gets a chance to manage a team with major league talent next time.

TWT FIVE ” PLAYERS WHO SHOULD WITHDRAW FROM NBA DRAFT

1. Jodie Meeks, Kentucky - Assuming John Calipari hasn’t already recruited over him, Kentucky will be a national title contender and Meeks could solidify his first-round status by returning.

2. Greivis Vasquez, Maryland - Vasquez may need a solid senior year to solidify his draft position so he doesn’t run the risk of being a second-round pick and not having a guaranteed contract.

3. Austin Daye, Gonzaga - Daye likely has a future in the NBA regardless of his decision, but a strong junior year could bump him from first-round bubble into the lottery.

4. Luke Harangody, Notre Dame - Like Tyler Hansbrough a year before him, Harangody won’t be a top pick but can become a legend at Notre Dame with a dominant senior year.

5. Ater Majok, Connecticut - Majok, a 6-foot-10 incoming freshman, surfaced in potential recruiting violations by UConn and may never play for the Huskies.

HE SAID WHAT?

“Nick was waiting and waiting, and Crosby didn’t come over to shake his hand. That’s ridiculous, especially as their captain, and make sure you write that I said that!” - Kris Draper on Sidney Crosby not shaking Nicklas Lidstrom’s hand