We’re halfway home. The Conference Finals start Saturday the 14th and well, we’ve come this far, so let’s break down the match ups and pick some winners. Although last round predictions were terrible going one for four so let’s see if this will be better or worse.
Western Conference Finals
#1 Vancouver Canucks vs #2 San Jose Sharks
The age old battle of the choke off. Which team wants to lose marginally less is how most people are looking at this. Both teams blew 3-0 series leads this year, only to win their respective game 7’s in dramatic fashion. The Canucks gave up a one goal lead inside of the final two minutes of regulation against the Blackhawks in the first round to conjure up shades of the past two years where they were eliminated by Chicago in the conference semis. Somehow, Chicago managed to beat themselves in OT and Vancouver moved on to face Nashville who they defeated in six games.
The Sharks had their own little voyage of “they’re going to blow it…again” moments this year as well. After defeated the injury depleted Los Angeles Kings in six games, they faced Detroit, a team they faced in the second round last year as well, and handily beat in five games. San Jose are the poster boys for post season futility, as they consistently perform well in the regular season, but fail to win when it counts. They advanced to the Conference Finals last year, but were swept by eventual cup winners Chicago.
Breakdown: The Canucks have a lot of pressure on them, having won the President’s Trophy this season and advancing to the Conference Finals for the first time since 1994, when they advanced to the Stanley Cup finals, losing to the New York Rangers in seven games. The Sharks have never been to the Cup finals, but are looking to shake their underachieving reputation once and for all with a trip of their own. San Jose has a bit of history on their side this year. He currently stands between the pipes and goes by the name Antti Niemi. He was in goal last year for the Chicago Blackhawks when they dispatched the Canucks, and I’m surely the Sharks are hoping he continues his winning ways against them.
While the Sedins have been relatively MIA this post season, the play of Ryan Kesler has been simply outstanding for Vancouver. 11 of his 15 postseason points came in the series against Nashville, and he appears to be finding his groove, which is something the Sharks can ill afford to let continue. Offensively both teams are rather well balanced in terms of depth, but you have to give the edge defensively, at least on paper, to Vancouver. So far Luongo has played well, outlasting Corey Crawford and Pekka Rinne but given Nashville’s lackluster offensive numbers, that wasn’t a huge task. The Sharks are a much more offensively gifted team than Nashville was, and he will need to play some of the best hockey of his career to advance the Canucks to the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time in 16 years.
Bottom Line: Sharks in 6. I believe that Antti Niemi will be the better goaltender in the series, but given the actual clutch play of “Jumbo” Joe Thorton, the Sharks are finally getting playoff production from their top players. If Vancouver cannot get that same kind of production from the Sedins, this series will be over pretty much before it began.
Eastern Conference Finals
#3 Boston Bruins vs #5 Tampa Bay Lightning
The Tampa Bay Lightning waste no time. This is their first playoff appearance in four years and here they are now, four wins away from the Stanley Cup Finals. The Boston Bruins on the other hand haven’t been to the Conference Finals since 1992. Tampa Bay has had a remarkable run this post season. Coming from 3-1 down to eliminate the Crosby/Malkin-less Penguins, they then went on to sweep the top seeded Washington Capitals, where they managed to make them regress a few seasons in a matter of a few periods. The Tampa Bay Lightning also have one of the most dynamic playoff goaltenders in Dwayne Roloson. This guy is practically unbeatable in elimination games, and he carried the Edmonton Oilers to the Stanley Cup finals in 06, where if not for his injury in game one, many believe they would’ve won the Cup.
The Boston Bruins have no slouch between their pipes either. All but guaranteed a second Vezina trophy for his absolutely dominating performance this season, Tim Thomas has returned to the form he seemingly lost a year ago. The Bruins defeated their bitter rivals the Montreal Canadiens in a seven game classic series in the opening round before having their way with the Flyers in a four game sweep in the Conference semifinals. A balanced attack and solid team defense, along with Thomas stopping almost everything that comes his way makes the Bruins a tough out this post season.
Breakdown: Tampa Bay is getting scoring from the unlikeliest of places. Vinny Lecavalier. While that seems like a joke, Vinny hasn’t been his 50 goal self in a long time, and he is finding his touch this post season, as he is second on the team with 12 points, behind Martin St. Louis with 13. Other unlikely scorers are former Islander Sean Bergenheim. He has 8 points (7, 1) in 11 games. His career high regular season numbers are 29 points (14, 15) which he scored this year. It’s not impossible to think that he can match his regular season goal total in the playoffs this year. Steve Downie also continues to thrive down in Tampa as he is tied with Lecavalier for points in the playoffs. If Steven Stamkos can start to contribute regularly (4g, 2a, -2) this Tampa Bay Lightning team will become even scarier.
The Bruins finally got some scoring from Milan Lucic in the second round where most of, if not all, of his points came in the series against the Flyers. He and Nathan Horton have found some chemistry and they are a dangerous pair coming down the wing. The biggest concern for Boston is the loss of leading playoff scorer Patrice Bergeron, who was concussed on a questionable hit from Philadelphia’s Claude Giroux. Taking his place in the lineup will be 19 year old rookie Tyler Seguin. Seguin doesn’t bring the complete game Bergeron has, but he has speed, an excellent skill set and youthful energy. It’s unlikely he will produce the kind of points that Bergeron did, but he can give the Lightning one more thing to think about. David Krejci and Nathan Horton will be looked on to contribute more in the points department, but after watching Krejci in the Philly series, that shouldn’t be a problem. Look to Tim Thomas once again to stop the vast majority of pucks thrown his way. He will be there to bail the Bruins out should any type of defensive lapse or breakdown occurs.
Bottom Line: This will be a great goaltending match up to watch. Tim Thomas is a Vezina winner and Rollie the ageless goalie is simply an unbelievable playoff performer. Two potential Conn Smythe winners will be battling it out in the Eastern Conference for a right to play for the Cup. At the end of the day, I think that Tampa Bay has more “elite” talent (as much as I hate to use that reasoning) and Roloson’s will to win, will put Tampa Bay in the Stanley Cup finals once again. Lightning in 7.
Showing posts with label San Jose Sharks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label San Jose Sharks. Show all posts
Friday, May 13, 2011
8 down, 8 to go.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Western Conference Semifinals
While the east is currently wrapping up in dramatic fashion, the West is ready to go so let's take a look at the match up for the Western Conference Semifinals. just a note. I was 3 for 4 with western conference picks. Not bad for my first "official" predictions.
#1 Vancouver Canucks vs #5 Nashville Predators
Regular season results, series split 2-2
The Canucks barely escaped a monumental collapse against the 8th seeded Chicago Blackhawks, while the defensive minded, disciplined Nashville Predators moved past the Anaheim Ducks for their first ever playoff series win.
Vancouver Canucks: The Canucks blew a 3-0 series lead against the banged up Chicago Blackhawks and also lost their 1-0 lead in game seven with less than 2 minutes to go. While they did manage to win in OT, the Canucks have to be shaken. GM Mike Gillis was fined by the NHL after voicing his displeasure with the officiating in the series, and some of the Canucks players have had less than complimentary things to say about letting Chicago comeback. Luongo will still be this team's question mark, and going up against a Vezina candidate in Pekka Rinne, the pressure will be on to perform.
Nashville Predators: Finally over the hump! After numerous appearances in the playoffs, the Predators have finally won a playoff series. They did it the way they have always won, with a solid team effort on defense and taking advantage of their chances. Look for the trend to continue. The Canucks are a deeper team, but still rely heavily on their top 6, well the Sedins +4. Expect to see a lot of Weber and Suter this series as they will be tasked with stopping the twins.
Breakdown: Another David and Goliath match up for the Predators. It is clear that Barry Trotz has the faith of his players, and they believe in each other and the system. Vancouver has the deeper line up, but Nashville played them tight all year, and I expect the confidence they have from dismissing the Ducks to give them some swagger coming into this round.
Bottom Line: Nashville in 7. Yeah, I said it. The Vancouver coaching staff is lacking confidence in Luongo, despite what they might say publicly. Pekka will need to step up his game, as he will be facing the majority of the shots this series, but at the end of the day I think the confidence and belief in themselves that the Predators have will get them over the hump.
#2 San Jose Sharks vs #3 Detroit Redwings
Regular season results, San Jose won 3-1
Detroit comes in with the longest break between rounds after the sweep of the Phoenix Coyotes, while San Jose comes off the hard fought series win against the Los Angeles Kings. The rest will do Detroit wonders as they've had time to rest key players and nurse injuries. San Jose comes off a gutsy win in game six against the Kings and look to build on their momentum.
San Jose Sharks: Another year, another playoff series. A rematch of last year's semifinals where they easily defeated the Detroit Redwings. This isn't last year though. As cliche as it is, their best players will need to be their best players. Marleau, Heatley and Thorton will have to play hard as will Clowe, Couture and Setoguchi. If they can get secondary scoring from players like Wellwood, the Sharks will be tough to beat. Also Niemi will need to put the doubters to rest and return to Cup winning form and not give up three goals on four shots again.
Detroit Redwings: The Redwings easily defeated the Phoenix Coyotes without one of their best players in Henrik Zetterberg. Look for Hank's return to start the series as well as well rested Lidstom and Datsyuk. Franzen will also be rested, and hopefully looking a little less like Franzenstein. The biggest question mark for the Wings, as it has been all season will be the play of Jimmy Howard. He will need to play his best hockey of the year against a team with the scoring talent of San Jose.
Breakdown: This will be one of the more intense match ups of the playoffs. Detroit showed that even without their best player, they're still one of the best teams in the league. The addition of Zetterberg will be huge for the Wings. The Sharks have the edge in goal, but the Wings are an entirely different animal come playoff time, and they will be incredibly tough to beat.
Bottom Line: Detroit in 6. No need to explain any further. They're the Wings. you can't spell wings without win. holy puck, did I really just say that?
#1 Vancouver Canucks vs #5 Nashville Predators
Regular season results, series split 2-2
The Canucks barely escaped a monumental collapse against the 8th seeded Chicago Blackhawks, while the defensive minded, disciplined Nashville Predators moved past the Anaheim Ducks for their first ever playoff series win.
Vancouver Canucks: The Canucks blew a 3-0 series lead against the banged up Chicago Blackhawks and also lost their 1-0 lead in game seven with less than 2 minutes to go. While they did manage to win in OT, the Canucks have to be shaken. GM Mike Gillis was fined by the NHL after voicing his displeasure with the officiating in the series, and some of the Canucks players have had less than complimentary things to say about letting Chicago comeback. Luongo will still be this team's question mark, and going up against a Vezina candidate in Pekka Rinne, the pressure will be on to perform.
Nashville Predators: Finally over the hump! After numerous appearances in the playoffs, the Predators have finally won a playoff series. They did it the way they have always won, with a solid team effort on defense and taking advantage of their chances. Look for the trend to continue. The Canucks are a deeper team, but still rely heavily on their top 6, well the Sedins +4. Expect to see a lot of Weber and Suter this series as they will be tasked with stopping the twins.
Breakdown: Another David and Goliath match up for the Predators. It is clear that Barry Trotz has the faith of his players, and they believe in each other and the system. Vancouver has the deeper line up, but Nashville played them tight all year, and I expect the confidence they have from dismissing the Ducks to give them some swagger coming into this round.
Bottom Line: Nashville in 7. Yeah, I said it. The Vancouver coaching staff is lacking confidence in Luongo, despite what they might say publicly. Pekka will need to step up his game, as he will be facing the majority of the shots this series, but at the end of the day I think the confidence and belief in themselves that the Predators have will get them over the hump.
#2 San Jose Sharks vs #3 Detroit Redwings
Regular season results, San Jose won 3-1
Detroit comes in with the longest break between rounds after the sweep of the Phoenix Coyotes, while San Jose comes off the hard fought series win against the Los Angeles Kings. The rest will do Detroit wonders as they've had time to rest key players and nurse injuries. San Jose comes off a gutsy win in game six against the Kings and look to build on their momentum.
San Jose Sharks: Another year, another playoff series. A rematch of last year's semifinals where they easily defeated the Detroit Redwings. This isn't last year though. As cliche as it is, their best players will need to be their best players. Marleau, Heatley and Thorton will have to play hard as will Clowe, Couture and Setoguchi. If they can get secondary scoring from players like Wellwood, the Sharks will be tough to beat. Also Niemi will need to put the doubters to rest and return to Cup winning form and not give up three goals on four shots again.
Detroit Redwings: The Redwings easily defeated the Phoenix Coyotes without one of their best players in Henrik Zetterberg. Look for Hank's return to start the series as well as well rested Lidstom and Datsyuk. Franzen will also be rested, and hopefully looking a little less like Franzenstein. The biggest question mark for the Wings, as it has been all season will be the play of Jimmy Howard. He will need to play his best hockey of the year against a team with the scoring talent of San Jose.
Breakdown: This will be one of the more intense match ups of the playoffs. Detroit showed that even without their best player, they're still one of the best teams in the league. The addition of Zetterberg will be huge for the Wings. The Sharks have the edge in goal, but the Wings are an entirely different animal come playoff time, and they will be incredibly tough to beat.
Bottom Line: Detroit in 6. No need to explain any further. They're the Wings. you can't spell wings without win. holy puck, did I really just say that?
Monday, April 11, 2011
Wild Wild West
Eastern conference is covered, so we'll head over to the Western Conference. These should be some epic match ups. At least in theory.
#1 Vancouver Canucks vs #8 Chicago Blackhawks
Regular Season results, Vancouver Wins series 2-1-1
Vancouver Canucks have run away with the regular season winning the Presidents Trophy, have potentially the first brothers to win consecutive Art Ross trophies (and possible Hart Trophies) and a goaltending duo who have won the William M. Jennings trophy, one of whom could be a Vezina winner as well. The Canucks are a team that on paper looks unbeatable. The Hawks on the other hand lost their last game of the season, and had to hold their collective breath while they waited the results of the Dallas-Minnesota match up to see if they would make it. The cap issues they've had, coupled with some injuries to key players have made this season quite the roller coaster ride for Chicago. As they say, win and you're in and while they didn't win, they're still in, and that's enough.
Vancouver Canucks: As stated by their accolades above, the Canucks are impressive on paper. On the ice, they're not too shabby either. With a defense core deeper than just about any other team in the league and they have a nice mix of high end talent and depth fowards. Added to their goaltender who is having a career year, and the Canucks seem unbeatable. I have to admit that I still have my doubts about Luongo in the post season. The Canucks have been a good team for a few years, but Luongo has been prone to collapsing under pressure. With the weight of being the best regular season team, which seems to have a curse of its own, and coupled with his own track record I have to wonder if he will be able to get the Canucks to hoist the Cup.
Chicago Blackhawks: How many times can we mention how Chicago was dismantled after their Stanley Cup victory last season? Well we're gonna do it again, because it's an important part of thier story. The vital core remained in tact as Toews, Kane, Hossa, Sharp, Keith and Seabrook all returned. What they lost, and what seemed replaceable, were their depth players. Credit where it's due as the Hawks tried to replace them, but as evident by their play against the Red Wings sunday afternoon, they couldn't match up against the top end players of the opposition. Also the play of Cory Crawford has been good, but he hasn't been up to the level of Niemi during the stretch run, and it's unknown how he'll respond to the rigors of playoff hockey.
Breakdown: The Blackhawks have had the Canucks number the past two years in the Western Conference semis, but these were both two different teams. The Hawks have been dismantled and patchworked back together. The Canucks have slowly built themselves into a powerhouse. Vancouver looks like they have the pieces to finally get over their playoff nemesis in the Blackhawks.
Bottom Line: Canucks in 6. Hawks will remain competitive throughout the series, but the tide is turning for the Canucks. Crawford's inexpirience will be a factor.
#2 San Jose Sharks vs #7 Los Angeles Kings
Regular Season results, split 3-3 (San Jose 3-1-2, Kings 3-3)
The San Jose Sharks quietly won the Pacific Division. The Sharks floundered (ok, I honestly didn't mean to make a fish joke) earlier in the year and were out of the playoff picture at one point, but without all the expectations on their shoulders, could this finally be the year? The Kings meanwhile have had their own ups and downs, but managed to hold on to a playoff spot despite losing their best player indefinitely due to injury, and lost 10 of 15 games in a stretch. However they have gotten some of the best goaltending in recent memory in Jonathan Quick, who has been near the top in almost every goaltending category.
San Jose Sharks: Despite of their big three having double digit drop offs in production, the Sharks have once again clinched their division. Ryan Clowe is having a career year in terms of points and goals while playing alongside rookie sensation Logan Couture. Defensively the Sharks have been quietly adequate. While not grabbing any headlines, they haven't caused any serious problems for the Sharks. When added to Niemi finding his game in San Jose, the Sharks turned it on when everybody stopped looking and now that the pressure's off, maybe this is the year.
Los Angeles Kings: While everyone has been quick to criticize the King's goaltending (puck, another awful pun. I'm racking them up today), more often than not it has been a lapse in team play in front of them. The Kings defense is solid crop of players lead by Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson along with some veteran know how from Rob Scuderi and Willie Mitchell. Offensively the Kings have been led all season by Anze Kopitar, who has recently been lost to a "lower body injury" (broken ankle) which will pose a challenge come this opening round series. Will trade deadline acquisition Dustin Penner be able to find his scoring touch in California once again? Los Angeles enters the playoffs with six 20 goal scorers, so they are getting contributions from multiple players, but someone will need to step into that dynamic role and attempt to replace Kopitar's team leading 48 assists.
Breakdown: The Sharks took advantage of the Kings towards the end of the season in a 6-1 drumming that seemed to expose every one of the Kings weaknesses. Coupled with the back to back losses to Anaheim to lose the 4th seed, the Kings are stumbling into the playoffs. The Sharks appear to be healthy and ready to make a run. The Kings will need their star players to step up. The Kings seem to be the team everyone loves to hate, and they can certainly use that to their advantage. The Sharks have lost their media favorite status this season, and that could be what they need to finally get to the Cup. Without the pressure of a fantastic regular season and high praises of their roster, they're finally free to just play hockey. This should be a classic matchup, and a hard fought series.
Bottom Line: Sharks in 6. It pains me to say that, as I like what the Kings have done for the most part this season, but you cannot deny the Sharks talent. Down the stretch Niemi has played really well and they seem to be clicking offensively. There is definitely potential for "upset" here though, so I can't truly rule out the kings.
#3 Detroit Redwings vs #6 Phoenix Coyotes
Regular Season results, split 2-2 with 3 of 4 games going to OT or SO (phoenix won the only regulation game)
A rematch of last year's first round Detroit beat Phoenix in a thrilling 7 game series. Detroit has been rather Detroit like all season, overcoming what most teams would consider insurmountable adversities only to thrive when it matters. They ended their season with a playoff like performance against the Blackhawks where the Wings showed why they are one of the teams to beat every April. The Coyotes are back in the playoffs for the second straight year, which has to be some kind of franchise record. Bryzgalov has been his excellent self between the pipes and constantly gives the 'Yotes a chance to win, and win they have. Keith Yandle has had a career year for Phoenix with 59 point campaign, which is good for 3rd amongst all NHL defensemen and 2nd on the Coyotes behind Captain Coyote, Shane Doan.
Detroit Red Wings: The list of players who have missed significant time this season for Detroit almost reads like a fantasy roster: Datsyuk, Rafalski, Osgood, Cleary, Modano, Draper, and they are currently without Henrik Zetterberg. This is a team that should be out it right? How quickly we forget that the Red Wings are the cockroaches of the NHL, they can survive anything. Jimmy Howard has had a drop in his performance, both goals-against and save percentage have taken a hit compared to last year, and Chris Osgood has missed most of the season with a groin injury, leaving the backup duties to journeyman Joey MacDonald. Howard's play must improve in order to advance. Zetterberg is listed as day-to-day with a lower body injury, so who knows when he will actually suit up for the Wings. If he is healthy enough to return, it will give this Detroit line up even more weapons up front.
Phoenix Coyotes: Is there something in the water in Glendale, or is Tippett really that good of a coach? I'm going to have to go with B, seeing as how he's guided this team to consecutive playoff appearances. Bryzgalov has been the bargain of the century in terms of waiver pick ups, and he has delivered consistent, if not phenomenal, play for the Coyotes ever since. Keith Yandle has been one of the more surprising stories this season, not just for Phoenix, but the entire league. He has an 18 point increase in points over last season, and improved his personal best in assists by 19. Look for Yandle to continue to push the offensive envelope during this series, especially if they have any hope of passing the Wings.
Breakdown: The regular season is almost like an 82 game warm up for the Detroit Red Wings. Forget what you think you know about them during that time because they always step their play up come April. Expect this year to be no different. You could even see it in Sunday's play against the Blackhawks, the Red Wings are ready for the playoffs. Phoenix continues to thrive under Dave Tippett, even with the ever looming controversy around ownership of the team and possible relocation. They even gave the Wings a scare last season as they took them all the way to game 7 in the opening round of the playoffs. Look for this series to be more of the same. The Coyotes have already proven that last year wasn't a fluke, and they've played Detroit hard this year. Look for this to be another instant classic.
Bottom Line: 7 games. All the "experts" are picking Detroit, and I have to agree, but I can't officially rule out the Coyotes. This might be the best match up in the West in the first round.
#4 Anaheim Ducks vs #5 Nashville Predators
Regular Season results, Nashville won 3-1
Nashville is a team that plays defensive hockey (3rd in goals against and 5th on the PK) and tries to make the most of their offensive opportunities. The Ducks on the other hand are led by Richard trophy winner and Hart nominee Cory Perry as they are 11th in goals per game and 3rd on the power play. This will be an offense versus defense battle. Pekka Rinne is undoubtedly a Vezina trophy finalist, finishing 2nd only to Tim Thomas in most categories. The Ducks have had some goaltending woes with at least four different goalies starting between the pipes for them.
Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks have one of the best lines in Perry-Getzlaf-Ryan, and Temmu Selanne is showing everyone that age is just a number putting up his best season in five years with 80 points in 73 games. Anaheim's top three scorers (Perry, Selanne, Getzlaf) have all scored at better than point per game pace this season. Lubomir Visnovsky leads the league with 68 points by a defenseman. Even their defense can score. the Ducks biggest cause for concern is goaltending. Is Jonas Hiller finally healthy enough to return to form that saw them almost topple the Red Wings in the playoffs a few years ago, or will his vertigo like symptoms return? Are Dan Ellis and Ray Emery capable of bringing the Cup back to Anaheim should Hiller not be able to play?
Nashville Predators: The Predators are seemingly the negative of Anaheim. There is no goaltending questions here, aside from whether or not Pekka Rinne win the Vezina trophy. He has been a work horse for the Predators, and his numbers are outstanding, 2.12 GAA and .930 save percentage with 6 shutouts. This is a goalie who knows how to close the door on the opposition. He will need to do that, with Nashville ranking near the bottom of the league, 26th, in goals per game. Rinne and the Predator defense, led by Shea Weber and Ryan Suter, will have to be on top of their game to beat the Ducks. Nashville has only two players over 20 goals and no one with more than 50 points. The Predators will have to be patient and weather a few offensive storms from Anaheim and make the most of their opportunities when they arise.
Breakdown: Anaheim seems to be the team to beat in this series, but Nashville can stop them. Regular season numbers don't mean much in the post season, but Predators coach Barry Trotz, knows how to get the most from his squad, and he knows how to prepare. The Ducks are not the most disciplined team as they have 4 players near or over 100 PIMs, so they will give Nashville chances on the power play. If Nashville can stay disciplined and tight defensively they could pull an upset. In the end it will be up to Pekka Rinne to steal a few games, possibly the series. If he can continue to play as well as he has, he can be a major source of frustration for the Ducks.
Bottom Line: Ducks* in 7. I'm making this conditional on the Ducks keeping their noses clean and keeping their heads in the game. The Predators can make life difficult for the opposition and if they can do that consistently, they can pull out a win in this series. Patience is a virtue, and both teams will need a lot of it to come out on top.
OK, we're all done. Time to count down till the playoffs start and then get glued to our televisions and internet feeds. Oh yeah, been a while since I've done this, but follow us on Twitter @WTPuckingPuck and like us on facebook. seriously. we need "friends"
#1 Vancouver Canucks vs #8 Chicago Blackhawks
Regular Season results, Vancouver Wins series 2-1-1
Vancouver Canucks have run away with the regular season winning the Presidents Trophy, have potentially the first brothers to win consecutive Art Ross trophies (and possible Hart Trophies) and a goaltending duo who have won the William M. Jennings trophy, one of whom could be a Vezina winner as well. The Canucks are a team that on paper looks unbeatable. The Hawks on the other hand lost their last game of the season, and had to hold their collective breath while they waited the results of the Dallas-Minnesota match up to see if they would make it. The cap issues they've had, coupled with some injuries to key players have made this season quite the roller coaster ride for Chicago. As they say, win and you're in and while they didn't win, they're still in, and that's enough.
Vancouver Canucks: As stated by their accolades above, the Canucks are impressive on paper. On the ice, they're not too shabby either. With a defense core deeper than just about any other team in the league and they have a nice mix of high end talent and depth fowards. Added to their goaltender who is having a career year, and the Canucks seem unbeatable. I have to admit that I still have my doubts about Luongo in the post season. The Canucks have been a good team for a few years, but Luongo has been prone to collapsing under pressure. With the weight of being the best regular season team, which seems to have a curse of its own, and coupled with his own track record I have to wonder if he will be able to get the Canucks to hoist the Cup.
Chicago Blackhawks: How many times can we mention how Chicago was dismantled after their Stanley Cup victory last season? Well we're gonna do it again, because it's an important part of thier story. The vital core remained in tact as Toews, Kane, Hossa, Sharp, Keith and Seabrook all returned. What they lost, and what seemed replaceable, were their depth players. Credit where it's due as the Hawks tried to replace them, but as evident by their play against the Red Wings sunday afternoon, they couldn't match up against the top end players of the opposition. Also the play of Cory Crawford has been good, but he hasn't been up to the level of Niemi during the stretch run, and it's unknown how he'll respond to the rigors of playoff hockey.
Breakdown: The Blackhawks have had the Canucks number the past two years in the Western Conference semis, but these were both two different teams. The Hawks have been dismantled and patchworked back together. The Canucks have slowly built themselves into a powerhouse. Vancouver looks like they have the pieces to finally get over their playoff nemesis in the Blackhawks.
Bottom Line: Canucks in 6. Hawks will remain competitive throughout the series, but the tide is turning for the Canucks. Crawford's inexpirience will be a factor.
#2 San Jose Sharks vs #7 Los Angeles Kings
Regular Season results, split 3-3 (San Jose 3-1-2, Kings 3-3)
The San Jose Sharks quietly won the Pacific Division. The Sharks floundered (ok, I honestly didn't mean to make a fish joke) earlier in the year and were out of the playoff picture at one point, but without all the expectations on their shoulders, could this finally be the year? The Kings meanwhile have had their own ups and downs, but managed to hold on to a playoff spot despite losing their best player indefinitely due to injury, and lost 10 of 15 games in a stretch. However they have gotten some of the best goaltending in recent memory in Jonathan Quick, who has been near the top in almost every goaltending category.
San Jose Sharks: Despite of their big three having double digit drop offs in production, the Sharks have once again clinched their division. Ryan Clowe is having a career year in terms of points and goals while playing alongside rookie sensation Logan Couture. Defensively the Sharks have been quietly adequate. While not grabbing any headlines, they haven't caused any serious problems for the Sharks. When added to Niemi finding his game in San Jose, the Sharks turned it on when everybody stopped looking and now that the pressure's off, maybe this is the year.
Los Angeles Kings: While everyone has been quick to criticize the King's goaltending (puck, another awful pun. I'm racking them up today), more often than not it has been a lapse in team play in front of them. The Kings defense is solid crop of players lead by Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson along with some veteran know how from Rob Scuderi and Willie Mitchell. Offensively the Kings have been led all season by Anze Kopitar, who has recently been lost to a "lower body injury" (broken ankle) which will pose a challenge come this opening round series. Will trade deadline acquisition Dustin Penner be able to find his scoring touch in California once again? Los Angeles enters the playoffs with six 20 goal scorers, so they are getting contributions from multiple players, but someone will need to step into that dynamic role and attempt to replace Kopitar's team leading 48 assists.
Breakdown: The Sharks took advantage of the Kings towards the end of the season in a 6-1 drumming that seemed to expose every one of the Kings weaknesses. Coupled with the back to back losses to Anaheim to lose the 4th seed, the Kings are stumbling into the playoffs. The Sharks appear to be healthy and ready to make a run. The Kings will need their star players to step up. The Kings seem to be the team everyone loves to hate, and they can certainly use that to their advantage. The Sharks have lost their media favorite status this season, and that could be what they need to finally get to the Cup. Without the pressure of a fantastic regular season and high praises of their roster, they're finally free to just play hockey. This should be a classic matchup, and a hard fought series.
Bottom Line: Sharks in 6. It pains me to say that, as I like what the Kings have done for the most part this season, but you cannot deny the Sharks talent. Down the stretch Niemi has played really well and they seem to be clicking offensively. There is definitely potential for "upset" here though, so I can't truly rule out the kings.
#3 Detroit Redwings vs #6 Phoenix Coyotes
Regular Season results, split 2-2 with 3 of 4 games going to OT or SO (phoenix won the only regulation game)
A rematch of last year's first round Detroit beat Phoenix in a thrilling 7 game series. Detroit has been rather Detroit like all season, overcoming what most teams would consider insurmountable adversities only to thrive when it matters. They ended their season with a playoff like performance against the Blackhawks where the Wings showed why they are one of the teams to beat every April. The Coyotes are back in the playoffs for the second straight year, which has to be some kind of franchise record. Bryzgalov has been his excellent self between the pipes and constantly gives the 'Yotes a chance to win, and win they have. Keith Yandle has had a career year for Phoenix with 59 point campaign, which is good for 3rd amongst all NHL defensemen and 2nd on the Coyotes behind Captain Coyote, Shane Doan.
Detroit Red Wings: The list of players who have missed significant time this season for Detroit almost reads like a fantasy roster: Datsyuk, Rafalski, Osgood, Cleary, Modano, Draper, and they are currently without Henrik Zetterberg. This is a team that should be out it right? How quickly we forget that the Red Wings are the cockroaches of the NHL, they can survive anything. Jimmy Howard has had a drop in his performance, both goals-against and save percentage have taken a hit compared to last year, and Chris Osgood has missed most of the season with a groin injury, leaving the backup duties to journeyman Joey MacDonald. Howard's play must improve in order to advance. Zetterberg is listed as day-to-day with a lower body injury, so who knows when he will actually suit up for the Wings. If he is healthy enough to return, it will give this Detroit line up even more weapons up front.
Phoenix Coyotes: Is there something in the water in Glendale, or is Tippett really that good of a coach? I'm going to have to go with B, seeing as how he's guided this team to consecutive playoff appearances. Bryzgalov has been the bargain of the century in terms of waiver pick ups, and he has delivered consistent, if not phenomenal, play for the Coyotes ever since. Keith Yandle has been one of the more surprising stories this season, not just for Phoenix, but the entire league. He has an 18 point increase in points over last season, and improved his personal best in assists by 19. Look for Yandle to continue to push the offensive envelope during this series, especially if they have any hope of passing the Wings.
Breakdown: The regular season is almost like an 82 game warm up for the Detroit Red Wings. Forget what you think you know about them during that time because they always step their play up come April. Expect this year to be no different. You could even see it in Sunday's play against the Blackhawks, the Red Wings are ready for the playoffs. Phoenix continues to thrive under Dave Tippett, even with the ever looming controversy around ownership of the team and possible relocation. They even gave the Wings a scare last season as they took them all the way to game 7 in the opening round of the playoffs. Look for this series to be more of the same. The Coyotes have already proven that last year wasn't a fluke, and they've played Detroit hard this year. Look for this to be another instant classic.
Bottom Line: 7 games. All the "experts" are picking Detroit, and I have to agree, but I can't officially rule out the Coyotes. This might be the best match up in the West in the first round.
#4 Anaheim Ducks vs #5 Nashville Predators
Regular Season results, Nashville won 3-1
Nashville is a team that plays defensive hockey (3rd in goals against and 5th on the PK) and tries to make the most of their offensive opportunities. The Ducks on the other hand are led by Richard trophy winner and Hart nominee Cory Perry as they are 11th in goals per game and 3rd on the power play. This will be an offense versus defense battle. Pekka Rinne is undoubtedly a Vezina trophy finalist, finishing 2nd only to Tim Thomas in most categories. The Ducks have had some goaltending woes with at least four different goalies starting between the pipes for them.
Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks have one of the best lines in Perry-Getzlaf-Ryan, and Temmu Selanne is showing everyone that age is just a number putting up his best season in five years with 80 points in 73 games. Anaheim's top three scorers (Perry, Selanne, Getzlaf) have all scored at better than point per game pace this season. Lubomir Visnovsky leads the league with 68 points by a defenseman. Even their defense can score. the Ducks biggest cause for concern is goaltending. Is Jonas Hiller finally healthy enough to return to form that saw them almost topple the Red Wings in the playoffs a few years ago, or will his vertigo like symptoms return? Are Dan Ellis and Ray Emery capable of bringing the Cup back to Anaheim should Hiller not be able to play?
Nashville Predators: The Predators are seemingly the negative of Anaheim. There is no goaltending questions here, aside from whether or not Pekka Rinne win the Vezina trophy. He has been a work horse for the Predators, and his numbers are outstanding, 2.12 GAA and .930 save percentage with 6 shutouts. This is a goalie who knows how to close the door on the opposition. He will need to do that, with Nashville ranking near the bottom of the league, 26th, in goals per game. Rinne and the Predator defense, led by Shea Weber and Ryan Suter, will have to be on top of their game to beat the Ducks. Nashville has only two players over 20 goals and no one with more than 50 points. The Predators will have to be patient and weather a few offensive storms from Anaheim and make the most of their opportunities when they arise.
Breakdown: Anaheim seems to be the team to beat in this series, but Nashville can stop them. Regular season numbers don't mean much in the post season, but Predators coach Barry Trotz, knows how to get the most from his squad, and he knows how to prepare. The Ducks are not the most disciplined team as they have 4 players near or over 100 PIMs, so they will give Nashville chances on the power play. If Nashville can stay disciplined and tight defensively they could pull an upset. In the end it will be up to Pekka Rinne to steal a few games, possibly the series. If he can continue to play as well as he has, he can be a major source of frustration for the Ducks.
Bottom Line: Ducks* in 7. I'm making this conditional on the Ducks keeping their noses clean and keeping their heads in the game. The Predators can make life difficult for the opposition and if they can do that consistently, they can pull out a win in this series. Patience is a virtue, and both teams will need a lot of it to come out on top.
OK, we're all done. Time to count down till the playoffs start and then get glued to our televisions and internet feeds. Oh yeah, been a while since I've done this, but follow us on Twitter @WTPuckingPuck and like us on facebook. seriously. we need "friends"
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)