21.   Visnovsky said he hopes to play Wednesday against Detroit in the Kings playoff opener.

22.   Watching Indiana upset Philadelphia in their playoff opener Saturday, and noting that Phoenix surprised Sacramento earlier Sunday, helped send a helpful message to the Lakers.

23.   Working between Sergei Samsonov and Dmitri Khristich in the playoff opener, Robitialle looked out of synch, constantly behind the play.

24.   Orel Hershiser, who will face Cone again in the playoff opener, allowed two runs and two hits in six innings.

25.   After making the most of their chances during the regular season, the White Sox fell victim to wasted opportunities in their playoff opener.

26.   After making the most of their chances during the regular season, the White Sox wasted numerous opportunities in their playoff opener.

27.   At Pacific Bell Park, Mike Hampton will start the playoff opener for the Mets against Livan Hernandez.

28.   Darryl Kile, working on three days rest after losing the playoff opener, let the lead get away in a hurry.

29.   Detroit and Vancouver begin their series Wednesday, one of four NHL playoff openers that night.

30.   Detroit beat Los Angeles without captain Steve Yzerman, who missed most of the playoff opener because of a sore leg.