Posted
5/30/2011 5:30:00 PM
7/8 in Round 1.
3/4 in Round 2.
2/2 in Round 3.
12/14 overall, which isn't bad. Way better than last year's disaster, too. I couldn't make a correct prediction to save my life. I was coming across like Harold Camping. In any event, there's only one series that matters. And damn, do I hope I'm wrong.
VANCOUVER vs. BOSTON
The Canucks have been leaps and bounds ahead of everybody else all season long. They dominated the regular season and have been, by a wide margin, the better team in each of their 3 playoff series. The Bruins, on the other hand, have looked strong but have definitely had some shake-and-bake en route to the Final.
Vancouver's depth is better at every position, though the high end of the Bruins defense is better than the high end of Vancouver's, and it's not at all unthinkable that Tim Thomas could outplay Roberto Luongo. If Boston plays a smashmouth, tough brand of hockey, it will be interesting to see how Vancouver reacts.
Problem is, the Canucks have taken every bit of adversity all season and spit it back out. They nearly choked against Chicago and tried their best to let Nashville and San Jose make it a series in both cases. However, here they are. No goaltending controversy, red hot forwards, excellent special teams, Manny Malhotra coming back...all things, essentially, are arrow up.
I hope they choke. I hope Boston finds a way. I hope Chara can shut down the Sedins, Thomas can outplay Luongo and Horton and company can outscore the depth of Vancouver.
I just don't think it will happen.
Tencer's Prediction: Vancouver in 6.
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