Preusser's NHL Rundown: Round 2
(Photo courtesy of nhl.com)
Let’s start with the Canadian teams. WOW, what a first round! Not to brag, but I did predict the Montreal Toronto matchup was going to go to seven games. Classic Edmonton and Toronto to choke in the playoffs. On paper, these teams should be winning these series, but Montreal and Winnipeg are just more resilient. I think that the Stanley Cup Playoffs are just some of the most unpredictable playoffs in sports. Who could’ve imagined that the No. 4 and No. 3 would be playing each other in round two. After Montreal beat Toronto, I honestly think they could defeat Winnipeg, but I think it’ll take six or seven games. Both of these teams are talented and tenacious, so it’ll be a great series to watch.
In the east division, we have the Boston Bruins and the New York Islanders. I think this is a good matchup, and the Islanders could beat Boston to advance. COULD is the key word there. It is for sure a possibility, but I think that Boston will pull it out. In the first game, the Bruins scored five goals, and I just think they are a little unstoppable right now. They also have core players with a ton of playoff experience, which is so important in these playoffs.
In the central, we have Tampa Bay and Carolina. Tampa has won the first two games, and I just hope Carolina can pull out the wins for the series. Both of these teams are so talented, and both have potential to win the Stanley Cup. There can only be one winner, and I really really hope that it is Carolina. I am not sure what I have against the Lightning, but there is just something about them. I also am a Carolina fan by association and geographical location, so there’s that as well.
Last but certainly not least, we have Colorado against Vegas in the west division. It’s no secret that Colorado is my pick to win the whole thing, and they haven’t let me down yet. They scored seven goals in the first game against the Golden Knights. If you know anything about that Vegas team, you know that they are a well rounded team that is difficult to score against. Scoring SEVEN goals is crazy in the regular season, let alone in the tight playoff races. I don’t think that Colorado will sweep the Knights, but I do think this Avalanche team can get it down in five or six games.
That’s hockey, baby!