The first round of the Playoffs is officially behind us and we are one step closer to this years Stanley Cup Finals. But first, let’s give thanks to an unforgettable round 1 which ended with a double OT where the Jets narrowly secured their spot moving forward. Before we get into this rounds’ predictions we are listing the new matchups below.
If you read our other articles on the NHL Playoffs you’ll notice that we once again were correct in our Playoff predictions (except for the leafs). No offence, but did anyone see them beating their playoff curse? We didn’t and while we’re happy for them we don’t want to ruin our record of predicting correct winners.
So, who do we think will advance to the Conference Championships?
Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Florida Panthers
What a run it’s been for the Leafs in this years Playoffs, who kicked off their series last night with their first win against the Panthers. Florida is notoriously strong and has been since their Stanley Cup win last year. The Leafs are strong when it comes to goal scoring with Nylander, Marner and Matthews leading their team to a victory but last night’s injury to Stolarz who left the arena on a stretcher seemingly due to a concussion could lead to the Leafs defense falling apart. The Panthers took advantage of this, scoring 2 goals on Wolf in a matter of moments. It wasn’t enough to de-rail the Leafs play but if Stolarz will miss the upcoming games, will it be the end of the Leafs playoff run?
Winner: Florida Panthers.
Washington Capitals vs. Carolina Hurricanes
This is the only match-up of this round of the Playoffs that will see 2 USA teams go head-to-head. Both teams won their round 1 series 4-1 so you could say it’s anyones game. However, we do think it’s unlikely that the Canes would beat the Caps. The Caps again have been so strong this season and with goal-scorers like Ovechkin and physicality like Tom Wilson, we think it’ll be the Caps advancing.
Winner: Washington Capitals
Edmonton Oilers vs. Vegas Golden Knights
In our opinion, this will be the most exciting of match-ups for this round. Two teams who are seemingly on par with each other will make for an absolute battle. Edmonton has so much potential and talent however sometimes they are just lacking. They had a rocky start to Round 1 losing the first 2 games to the LA Kings. Could this slow start affect them in this round? We hope not. As a Canadian company we are praying to the hockey gods for a Canadian team to win this year.
Winner: Edmonton Oilers
Winnipeg Jets vs. Dallas Stars
The Jets made hard work of Round 1 with Hellebuyck crashing out too many times! He was pulled in game 3 and after the second period in Game 6, where he allowed 5 goals on 23 shots.
If the Jets play with the same determination and energy that they had in Game 7, then they’ll advance. We are just hoping for more amazing goals by Lowry and Perfetti. As for Dallas, if Mikko Rantanen performs like he did in Round 1, it’ll be an absolute blood bath.
Winner: Winnipeg Jets
You can still create your Playoff Pool over on Officepools.com
