Predictions, and Thoughts

These have been one of the most exciting playoff years up to date, with every series being tied 1-1, and some physical and high scoring series what more do hockey fans want.

Before I discuss the playoffs I will share what my predictions were

I had Detroit, Los Angeles, San Jose, and Chicago coming out of the West.

I had Philadelphia, Pittsburg, Washington, and Buffalo coming out of the East.

Things aren’t that far off so I’m content.

Detroit Phoenix Series

This series has been the best by far.  The Yotes are definitely out hitting the Wings, but the Wings are coming alive in the physical department with the addition of Justin Abdelkater.  Him and Darren Helm are hitting anything that moves, but they are both overshadowed by the play of Coyotes captain Shane Doan.  Doan has been a machine for the Coyotes, this is costing the team as Doan has taking two minor penalties (Charging on Kronwall, and interference on Lidstrom), both of which resulted in a Detroit goal.

Now this is all lost as Doan left game 3 with an unknown upper body injury when he slammed into the boards after tripping over Red Wings goaltender Jimmy Howard.  This might be the end of the series for Phoenix.  Without Doan they lose one of their best players, and their captain.  I can’t see Detroit losing two in a row at home, and specially if Doan is out for game 4.  Expect a win tomorrow at the Joe Louis Arena, and then a exciting finish for the last three games of the series.

San Jose

I know every spring the Sharks always lose out in the playoffs with an amazing team, so far this year it isn’t looking any different.  We have to give the Sharks credit though, they brutally outshot the Avs and lost in overtime to a fluke goal.  They need a big bounce back game in game 4, but I don’t know if I see this happening.  Dany Heatley didn’t play in game three because of an undisclosed upper body injury, if he isn’t back for game 4 it’ll be a tough game for the Sharks.  With Thorton and Marleau goaless, and with the overtime goal shadowing Boyle the Sharks need to dig deep for the win.  The Avs are a young, hungry, and confident team now except them to come out of the gate early in game four.

If the Sharks lose this series, and get eliminated from the playoffs early again the team needs to do some serious roster moves.