NHL Hockey playoff Thread

[Luke]

[vash23n]

I am impressed at the fight the Canadiens put up this post-season. They annoyed me, however, in the series the Flyers played against them. I watched Gomez, Cammalleri and Gionta start the series with massively inflated egos. The smurks they had on their faces after their series with the Pens bothered me. Of course it didn't last long after we shut them out in the first two games. Oddly enough, I saw that it returned in Game 3 when they beat the crap out of the Flyers. Going into game 4 and 5 their arrogance seemed to increase. Cammalleri sticking his tongue out at Carcillo was just weird, Gomez admitting he hoped the Flyers going to the dressing room during game 3 were injured was just childish and stupid. It seemed they failed to realize that, just as they mounted historic comebacks and wins against the Caps and the Pens, any other team may be capable of the same.

The Flyers, however, handled their historic comeback against the Bruins with a decent amount of class. Going into game 5, they knew nothing could be taken for granted. They played almost as desperate a game as that Game 7 against the Bruins because they seemed to realize how easy fortunes could turn. Comparing the two, I really got a bad taste in my mouth for the Canadiens, a team that had a depth consisting mainly of the three players named above. This is why I, unlike many who seem to be taken in by the Canadiens Cinderella story, feel that the Flyers deserved to win this series. Both teams have played a historic post season, but the Flyers seemed to keep themselves grounded and their egos in check. Even if I wasn't a Flyer, I feel I would be happy (as long as my team wasn't in the running or newly eliminated) that the Flyers made it to the next round.

As for the West, I already explained who I wanted to win the Conference finals and why. I am glad we will face another young/mostly untested goalie. The Hawks have more offensive depth than the Canadiens though so the Flyers will have more than 3 guys to shut down for 60 minutes. 2nd place team versus 7th place team, should be interesting.

[Luke]

^Nice post.

I feel the same way about the Habs winning series as I do the Flyers vs. Habs series. Impressed, but annoyed at the Flyers attitude. The way Richards reacted to his complete garbage goal last night didn't sit well with me, at all. I definitely would have put a goon on him.

But the momentum these two teams have going into the Finals with is outstanding. The Sharks took out some teeth, but didn't really beat up the Hawks. Same with Philly. Neither team looks tired.

This should be a great series final. Extra great if my Hawks win.

edit:

[ZenLogikos]

I said Chicago would win and they are the most talented and playing very well, BUT...I'm really impressed with Philly right now. Their stars are playing well and the lessers (Carcillo and Hartnell et al) are not only playing disciplined, but have significantly upped their skill level currently. They really look like they've learned from the past two playoff years. Also, I'm amazed by their synergy. The Pens may have slightly higher skill level overall, but they weren't clicking like the Flyers are now. It's so fun to watch a team that is in sync, i.e. Borg-like (if you get the Star Trek reference)

However...Chicago in six.

[Luke]

You listen to Barry Melrose too much. *winks* (Although I didn't actually wink)

[ZenLogikos]

I don't listen to him at all. What did he say? What part of what I said agrees with him? He must be a genius though.

And ESPN? Please. I don't read hockey analysis often, but when I do, I prefer tsn and sportsnet.ca

Stay thirsty, my friends.

[Luke]

I don't listen to him at all. What did he say? What part of what I said agrees with him?

He sounds like a genius though.

Just about everything you said including "Chicago in six". Just an observation on my part.

I'm thinking Chicago in five, but six works for me too. I think the Hawks should sign on Eddie the Eagle just for the hell of it.

[ZenLogikos]

Well, then I guess I'm NOT insightful. What I said must just be obvious.

Also, six games is a common, no-commitment kind of prediction. It gives the other team decent props, but the winner is still evident.

[dsheinem]

Boo your predictions.

My Flyers in 7. Go Philly!

[Luke]

Boo your predictions.

My Flyers in 7. Go Philly!

After they lose the first three games, no doubt.