Sunday, May 13, 2012

Conference Finals

Since the Conference Finals officially begin tonight, there isn't much time to dwell on what just happened.  So, off we go...

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS


(3)PHOENIX COYOTES vs. (8) LOS ANGELES KINGS


Pacific Division rivals meet for the right to represent the Western Conference in the Stanley Cup Finals.  This is a fairly equal matchup, with the Kings having a slight advantage in the offensive category (I thought I would never be able to say that about the Kings this year).  The Kings have the bigger names, but the Coyotes have just as much heart.

Prediction: Kings in 6

EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS


(1) NEW YORK RANGERS vs. (6) NEW JERSEY DEVILS


The Battle on the Hudson is renewed for with much bigger stakes on the line.  These are not your father's Devils, as there is some offense to go with a suffocating defense.  Ilya Kovalchuk is playing his most complete hockey right now, but it is Zach Parise who makes it all go for the Devils, with Martin Brodeur providing the last line of defense.  The Rangers have had two game 7's so far, so it remains to be seen if they will have anything left in the tank.  That is no question for Henrik Lundqvist, who is at the top of his game.  Of course, it doesn't hurt that the Rangers blue line puts their bodies in front of the shots every now and then.  Marian Gaborik must step up, though, as he's been practically invisible for all except the game 3 triple OT thriller against the Capitals.

Prediction: Rangers in 7

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