This week in THN: April 30, 2012

In the April 30 issue of The Hockey News:

Pick up a copy at your local newsstand, buy it from the THN store, digitally, or subscribe at thehockeynews.com today!

• In the pursuit of happy endings, we look at a few players who came back from a concussion and enjoyed success.

• In his editor’s notebook, Jason Kay wonders if the absence of a strong Canadian presence in the playoffs is a trend or a cyclical pattern.

• The THN Inbox prints the best latters to the editor, the results of an online poll are revealed and Ask Adam answers your questions on the Red Wings and European or US prospects coming to the Canadian League.

• Inside Hockey explains why Wilkes-Barre Scranton coach John Hynes gets rave reviews for his job; celebrated McGill’s first CIS title in 50 years; how close we came to a showdown of NCAA and CIS champions in 1974; improving rink safety; and more.

• Adam Proteau writes that it’s a deep year for Jack Adams candidates, so some worthy winners will be left out in the cold.

• Zach Parise is the engine running the Devils, but will he run out of New Jersey when July 1 rolls around?

• Kerry Fraser writes about what it’s like to referee in the NHL playoffs; the pressure, the preparation, the focus and the inner peace.

• The opinion page breaks down the rate even strength goals are scored at and concludes power plays, not goal scoring, is the only thing down since the first post-lockout season.

• The Team Reports section looks at Wayne Simmonds’ season and how he’s making the Flyers forget all about Mike Richards; Barret Jackman has been a steady hand on St. Louis’ blueline through an up-and-down decade; and we print depth charts from all 30 NHL teams and list an unsung hero for each.

• Looking for a new NHL team to cheer for? We give you a spread to follow to who you should root for next.

• Prospect Report looks at the increased number of Russian prospects choosing to go the CHL route, though the best course is still up for debate; we also look at Colorado Avalanche farmhand Cameron Gaunce and Green Bay Gambler Jordan Schmaltz.

• Backchecking catches up with Alexei Gusarov, a stellar blueliner in his day and a current assistant GM in the Kontinental League.

• In Last Minute of Play, Larry Humber’s crossword puzzle provides a challenge and Jersey Hound gives a glimpse of the Indiana Ice look.

• And in Overtime, Ken Campbell writes about the epic failures of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens, two iconic teams in miserable positions.

Pick up a copy at your local newsstand, buy it from the THN store, digitally, or subscribe at thehockeynews.com today!