NHL playoffs 2017: Three bold predictions
Even though three of the top four teams in the NHL are from the Metropolitan Division, the 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs feel more wide open than ever.
Here are the bold predictions from Paste BN Sports' NHL staff for the playoffs:
Calgary Flames upset the Anaheim Ducks. The Ducks, the top seed from the Pacific Division, had a 4-1-0 series advantage this season, but it just feels as if the frisky Flames, the first wild card, have the potential to surprise us. The Flames and Ducks are more evenly matched than the record shows. They are a wash offensively, and Anaheim only has a slight advantage defensively. It will come down to goaltending. Statistics don't support that Brian Elliott will outplay John Gibson. Just call it a hunch. (Kevin Allen)
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Edmonton Oilers reach the Stanley Cup Final. Hart Trophy frontrunner Connor McDavid has the ability to carry the Oilers, who will also be in a winnable bracket, first facing the San Jose Sharks and then the winner of the Anaheim Ducks-Calgary Flames matchup. But this group has more depth, a better defense and a feisty streak to them. They also have the best record against the Western Conference: 33-11-6. (Jimmy Hascup)
Washington Capitals will reach the Stanley Cup Final. Not only will they advance to the conference final for the first time in the Alex Ovechkin era, they take it a step further. After quickly eliminating the Toronto Maple Leafs, they'll find a way to get by their nemesis, the Pittsburgh Penguins, a team that's missing Kris Letang and doesn't have as strong goaltending. (Mike Brehm)