(1) Edmonton Oil Kings vs. (3) Calgary Hitmen
The Oil Kings dominated the league with a stingy defense and continue to do so in the playoffs. The Hitmen are equally up to the task despite not putting up the eye-popping numbers. Laurent Brossoit and Chris Driedger are the backbones of their respective squads and while the Oil Kings have the more well-known players, the Hitmen just get the job done. Calgary had the tougher road to get here, as they had to beat two defensively stout teams, but the Oil Kings have something that Swift Current and Red Deer do not, and that is offense. And of course, there's the provincial bragging rights on the line in addition to a spot in the finals.
Prediction: Oil Kings in 6
(1) Portland Winterhawks vs. (3) Kamloops Blazers
There's no question the Winterhawks were the best team on offense, and certainly, their defense was equally adept. The Blazers can match the Winterhawks on offense, but of concern is their defense, particularly since they can be quite streaky on offense and given their injuries to Colin Smith and Tim Bozon, will need the likes of Brendan Ranford and Kale Kessy to step up once again. This will be the Winterhawks' toughest test yet, as the Blazers will be looking for revenge for last year's ouster in the Conference semis.
Prediction: Winterhawks in 7
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