Pretty offensive night to say the least.
Capitals vs Flyers - One:
Washington wins 2 - 0
Washington lead series 1 - 0
Washington looked good in this game. Philadelphia had moments as well but really didn't get many good shots on Braden Holtby. The first period the Flyers had Washington just trying to catch up and they drew a few penalties as a result. The second and third periods were played more in Washington's pace than Philly's. If this continues, the Caps stand a good chance to win not only this series, but the entire East. Philly has positives to build on - Gostisbehere is such a good puck-mover and if they stay patient and wait on Washington to over-commit, the rush will be there for good transition goals. Washington looked mostly in control, though.
Islanders vs Panthers - One:
New York wins 5 - 4
New York leads series 1 - 0
This series should go seven. Both teams will get goals. Both teams have weaknesses. I think, the Isles look more susceptible to breaking down in their own zone, but they also look more able to exploit neutral zone transitions into the offensive zone. Florida needs Barkov to score. He and Jagr looked good and almost got the tying goal in the final minute or so of play. But almost isn't good enough for this line. The Isles top players got a couple. Tonight it could be Florida's top unit doing it. There are plenty of chances at both ends.
Stars vs Wild - One:
Dallas wins 4 - 0
Dallas leads series 1 - 0
The Stars are just too much for this wounded Minnesota team. I don't think Parise would help that much, even though he adds leadership and toughness. The Stars are just too much in every area. As long as the Stars don't get one-dimensional and cease to focus on their end or something, they have this series, maybe a sweep...probably a sweep - maybe all shutouts!
Kings vs Sharks - One:
San Jose wins 4 - 3
San Jose leads series 1 - 0
San Jose controlled the pace in this one. It wasn't domination by any stretch and this series should go seven - fans of hockey sure hope so. There were plays at both ends, guys stepping up. Joe Pavelski looks focused - he had a great game. Anze Kopitar wasn't a huge factor last night but I am sure he will be seen more. Drew Doughty and Jake Muzzin moved the puck well. San Jose's team speed was impressive and the addition of Joel Ward has already made an impact. This is not a roll-over and die Sharks team of the past. Los Angeles won't be coming back if they get down 3 - 0 in the series (as they did a couple of years ago to the Sharks)
Watched the end of the PHi-Wash game. Flyers couldn't stay out of the box and the Vorachek turnover at the end was horrible. Still if Flyers would've been able to get the first goal may have ended in a W.
ReplyDeleteWatched start of Dal-Minn. Both teams looked to be playing well, feeling each other out. Wasn't the wide-open end to end of the Ny-FL game. Left it when it was still 0-0. Surprised to see Dal win big. Minn didn't look bad. I don't think they'll win series but won't get swept.
The Flyers have hope. But I was fearing the Caps were going to come out as they had the last month or so of the season. They played well. Teams can play a lot different with a lead and Philly is a tough team.
ReplyDeleteDallas mostly carried the pace in that game. I can't see the Wild generating a lot of good chances...but, again, things change, often a lot, when playing with a lead versus being down. I think the Rangers played a stronger game against the Pens than the Wild did last night. Can't see them winning two games unless Dallas gets lazy.