Stanely Cup Update

Last night, the Nashville Predators scored two first period goals, survived a crossbar on an open net in the second period and a post in third, and hung on to defeat the Anaheim Ducks 2-1 in game 7 of their first round series.  The Predators defense and goaltending was solid, holding Anaheim’s sniper Corey Perry to no goals in the series, and John Gibson’s less than stellar play in the first two games immediately put Anaheim behind the eight ball. This was another game 7 defeat for the Ducks, blowing a 3-2 lead in the series, and another early round loss for their coach Bruce Boudreau whose job is probably in jeopardy as a result.  This is also another loss for my first round predictions and it means that the three favorites to make it out of the West and to the Finals, the Ducks, Blackhawks, and Kings, have all been defeated in the first round. And it leaves me with one last second round prediction:

San Jose Sharks defeat Nashville Predators – Sharks have been under the radar with no pressure all season and the Preds have just endured a seven game slugfest with the Ducks.  The prior playoff experience and depth that San Jose has should be able to get them over the finish line in a long, tough series – perhaps another seven games.

Just as a note, the Islanders started off round two last night by beating the Lightning 4-3, chasing a horrible Ben Bishop, as Thomas Greiss continued his superb play.  Just as I predicted – NOT!

I’ll check back in at the end of this round, if not sooner.