One I was not surprised about – the other I was.
The momentum was on DC, and although outplayed in many parts of the game – it just seemed to be leaning the Caps way. A great shot by on ol vet. Ovie was really a non-factor, but in the next series, he will find every chance to shine at every moment (considering the opponent).
Lundqvist was good when he had to be, and again I say that he alone is the only reason that the Rangers were in it. With all the $$ spent on guys, that just did not do anything, Ranger fans should be peeved at the vets (with Drury getting a pass, due to the broken hand that was mentioned today). Wade Redden was a brilliant acquisition. Hmmmm, Streit… Redden. About 2.5Mil less, and oh what better talent level. Ya!
I feel bad for Marty. Two goals in 40 seconds or so, that I know were not the toughest shots that come in to him. I know he will have a lousy summer because of it. I had no problem with whoever got out of this series. I like Carolina too – a nice team that has responded well to the coaching change. I called a Game 7 Overtime for this series, but I fell about 30 seconds short in my prediction.
Well – picks:
1. Boston vs Carolina – Carolina will be a better opponent for the Bruins. They will be fast and not try to beat them over the head, so skills will be more prevalent from both teams. However, Boston is big, strong, fast and sharp. Bruins in 6.
2. Washington vs Pittsburgh – Ovie vs Geno – Ovie vs Sidney. This is the match made for TV. Will this tough 7 game series tire the Caps out? They can only hope that the adrenaline kicks in. I think Pittsburgh will be too tough for Washington in the end. More learning experience for Wash. Pittsburgh in 6.
3. Detroit vs. Anaheim – This is not your typical 8 seed. This is an 8 seed on steroids (sorry – wrong reference). This is going to be more evenly matched than expected. Anaheim could steal one on the road, due to the inactivity of the Wings. However, the Ducks cindarella story is going to come to an end here. Detroit in 7.
4. Vancouver vs. Chicago – 9 days off between games. Do you think the Sedin’s needed to see a hockey for dummies book for refesher references? This ALWAYS hurts a team. I like Vancouver’s make up – but this awfully long wait – is going to bite them in the butt. Chicago in 6.
What do you think…..
Posted under Playoffs 09, Ramblings
This post was written by Gary Harding on April 29, 2009

