By Steph Shirk, Contributing writer
Anyone who has kept up with the NHL this season can easily picture the Stanley Cup staying in Pittsburgh for another year, minus their shabby defense. There was a 3-2 chance for the Flyers to sneak past the Pens in their post-season escapade, and once again, they didn’t fall short. Considering the Flyers haven’t won a Stanley Cup since 1975, it isn’t hard to believe that we’re out for the count.
Now entering the second round of the playoffs, eight teams worthy of participation ribbons have been eliminated, including the league’s resident line of second-best underdogs (I’ve never met a Jets fan). So let’s talk hypothetical situations.
We have the Predators, hungry after last year’s defeat by the reigning champs. After the sudden resurrection of captain Mike Fisher two-thirds of the way through the regular season, the Preds have a solid force backing them once again. However, is this force strong enough to hold up against Ovechkin or Crosby when they enter the third round?
The only hope I have for the Jets to pull though with their running history is if Pekka Rinne, Mike Fisher, and P.K. Subban all resign before game one. I see no reason as to why the Predators would lose to one of the most wishy-washy teams in the league.
My ability to make the call between the Bruins and the Tampa Bay Lighting in my fantasy bracket. The teams are only one point apart and the Atlantic division better be ready for a few overtime games. This is the series you need to watch if you want to be anxiety-ridden for the rest of your evening.
The team that everyone is talking about this season is the baby of the league. The Las Vegas Golden Knights have proven their nobility during their rookie season, starting with what fans call a mediocre, average line up with strong attitudes. No one is quite sure how a team full of draftees from every team in the league have pulled off such an impressive season, and I can see them taking this to the end.
Last but kind of least, we have the NHL’s weird uncle from California. The San Jose Sharks will be facing the Vegas Golden Knights and, from what we’ve seen this season, are definitely in for a fight if they want that cup. They have a strong front, but I can’t see them winning more than two games.
The second round has just begun and playoff hockey is in full swing.
