National Hockey

MONTREAL — Right winger Andrew Shaw underwent surgery on his left knee and will need at least six months to recover, the Montreal Canadiens announced Wednesday. Shaw suffered a knee injury and a concussion on March 13 against the Dallas Stars.

ARLINGTON, Va. — Like tourists flocking to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, the Pittsburgh Penguins making a trip to Washington in the playoffs has become a rite of spring.

It took one trip to Las Vegas early in the season for the San Jose Sharks to realize that the fast start to the season for the expansion Golden Knights was no fluke.

CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Penguins will be without centre Evgeni Malkin and forward Carl Hagelin when the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions open their Eastern Conference semifinal series Thursday night in Washington.

TORONTO — The Raptors are hosting, but supporters of the Maple Leafs and Toronto FC will be welcome to Wednesday's party at Air Canada Centre on a dream night for Toronto sports fans.

Drew Doughty watched other playoff games this season and couldn't believe that George Parros, the NHL's discipline czar, had suspended him for a head shot.

WINNIPEG — Being traded to the Winnipeg Jets this season has turned into a highlight for Paul Stastny and Joe Morrow.

WINNIPEG — Police in Winnipeg say they were already considering a potential vehicle attack as they planned security for Jets fans looking to party downtown during the NHL playoffs. Insp.

CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Sidney Crosby has faced the Washington Capitals three times in the playoffs. All three times the Pittsburgh captain has led his team to victory.

MONTREAL — The Montreal Canadiens signed undrafted forward Alexandre Alain to a three-year entry-level contract on Tuesday.