WOW! What a turn of events: With 1:20 remaining, I felt on top of the world, anticipating celebrating in the dressing room with the fellas. Thirty seconds later we suffered what felt like our own apocalypse!

This is why you play the game for 60 minutes and in the playoffs and often longer. This is what transcends seedings, home ice, expectations. It's why we actually go out there and play the games.

Never in 28 years of playing hockey at its most elite levels have I ever experienced something like that. I guess it's the game's way of keeping you humble and hungry to succeed.

We had an outstanding season with team and individual record. It doesn't seem like a fitting end to our season.

I tip my cap to the Hurricanes, they beat us fair and square. Best of luck to them and the Chicago Blackhawks, Vancouver Canucks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, Washington Capitals and the Anaheim Ducks.

Kevin Weekes will be blogging right here for the entire 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs. He'll also be periodically answering your questions, so submit them in the comments section below. Also check out Kevin's Official Site.