WHL Western Conference Playoffs Preview

Most of the WHL playoffs action begins Friday, and that includes most of the Western Conference.  Today, here is a look at the Western Conference.

(1) Kelowna Rockets vs. (4) Tri-City Americans

The Rockets are heavily favored to be the Western Conference representative in the WHL Finals this year, but the same thing was said last year.  However, last year's team didn't have either Josh Morrisey or Leon Draisaitl.  The Rockets still have enviable depth, and with both former Prince Albert players on the roster, the Rockets provide a scary proposition for any team to face.  The Americans needed all of the season to secure a playoff spot, and their reward is basically being the sacrificial lamb to the best team in the Western Conference.

Prediction: Rockets in four

(2) Victoria Royals vs. (3) Prince George Cougars

The Royals are a very good team that is well-coached, as evidenced by Dave Lowry being named head coach for next year's WJC and Team Canada.  The Royals won't wow you with spectacular offense, but they play a physical style that wears opponents out.  The Cougars are back in the playoffs after a four year absence, and if an upset has to happen, it could be here, as the Cougars have shown an ability to play a full game (see: last game against the same Royals).  However, the Cougars must cut down the goals given up, as only Lethbridge and Saskatoon gave up more.

Prediction: Royals in six

(1) Everett Silvertips vs. (4) Spokane Chiefs

The Silvertips needed the last weekend to hold off the Portland Winterhawks to win their first U.S. Division title since 2007.  There may be a bit of a goaltending controversy, as Austin Lotz is the usual starter, but Carter Hart has played well lately.  If a team is going to beat Everett, it will have to be five-on-five, as the Silvertips were the second-least penalized team in the league.  The Chiefs are still a young team that isn't likely to challenge for an upset here, but the play of the Yamamoto brothers (Kailer and Keanu) plus a few others put the Chiefs comfortably into a wild card spot.

Prediction: Silvertips in six

(2) Portland Winterhawks vs. (3) Seattle Thunderbirds

These two rivals square off for the first time in the playoffs since 2006, and it's a little more even this year than in recent years.  The Winterhawks have two of the most prolific scorers in Oliver Bjorkstrand and Nic Petan, but don't forget about either Paul Bittner or Chase DeLeo.  Adin Hill has seized the starting goaltending job, but this will be his first time playing in a pressure-packed situation.  The Thunderbirds actually won the season series this year, and with Matt Barzal not having hit his full-stride, it's possible the Thunderbirds will have a second gear coming soon.  For Seattle to win, they do need to expose the lack of defensive depth on Portland's side, and that begins with Shea Theodore needing to be the offensive catalyst he's always been.

Prediction: Winterhawks in seven