McCabe: Stanley Cup Playoffs Preview
Bruins vs Senators: The Boston Bruins are back in the playoffs since 2013 when they were defeated by the Montreal Canadiens.This is the first ever playoff meeting between the Senators and the Bruins.Key matchup to watch out for is Brad Marchand versus defenseman Erik Karlsson.Whoever sets the tone early can help lead their respective teams to victory. The Bruins will be too much for Ottawa led by Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand. My prediction is Bruins in 5.
GAME 1: WED, APR 12 @ OTTAWA
Blues vs. Wild: I went back and forth picking this series. It’s going to be an exciting series with two really high flying offenses. The Wild were a surprise team this year, exceeding expectations with first year head coach from Anaheim Bruce Boudreau and winning a franchise record 12 game winning streak. The Blues have the experience in the playoffs and I think that will be huge for them because they could make that run back to the conference finals. Tarasenko is the key for the Blues, if he can play to his potential the Blues will win the series. In the end i’m picking the Blues in 6.
GAME 1: WED, APR 12 @ MINNESOTA
Blackhawks vs Predators: This has the making to be the best series in the first round. In my opinion the Blackhawks are the favorite to raise the cup again because they have talent on every line and they’ve been there, done that. Arguably Patrick Kane is one of the best in the league and he will be the best player on the ice for the Hawks. On the other side in smashville, they have P.K. Subban who is a force on the defensive end and even on the offensive end he can help James Neal. My prediction is it goes to a classic game 7 and the Hawks win
GAME 1: THUR, APR 13 @ CHICAGO
Ducks vs Flames: This is a series that I think will go fast. The Ducks will win easily in 5 because the Ducks have the proven veterans in Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf who will be too much for Johnny Gaudreau and the Flames. The Flames are an upcoming team with a bright future, but the Ducks will win easily.
GAME 1: THUR, APR 13 @ ANAHEIM
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By Jared McCabe
