NHL: Breaking Down the Pacific Division and its Star, the Sharks' Antti Niemi

Hockey fans favorite time of year are drawing ever closer. The Stanley Cup Playoffs. Athletes and fans of all sports alike have time and time again agreed on one thing, there is no trophy in all of professional sports more difficult to claim than the Stanley Cup. Four grueling rounds in best of seven play. One of last years showcased talents was Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Antti Niemi (pictured). A virtually unknown goalie that made his statement early, and made it known. Niemi's stunning saves and calmness wooed everyone in the hockey world, as he led his team to the title as a rookie.

Niemi found a new home in San Jose during the Summer, and has been putting on his normal show of spectacular play as of late, trying to help the Sharks capture their first title in franchise history. Playing in the Western Conference, and more specifically the Pacific Division has proven to be a roller coaster of unexpected results since game. The Pacific has had a great contribution to this years "wild wild West" in the NHL this year. Whoever comes out of the Pacific alive, will definitely have their work cut out for them.

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