A Tale of Two Artilleries
After an absolute scoring frenzy in game one, the two netminders will be looking to remove their neck tans from the goal lights of the United Centre. For those of you who thought this was going to be a one-sided series, you have now witnessed the passion and drive on both of these teams, as the end of their championship droughts are in sight.
There in such an eerie resemblance in these two lineups, but there are those little factors that may set one team on an advantage over another. As demonstrated in game one, both teams have the offensive tools to score goals at will. Call them lucky. Call them weak. There were eleven goals scored in game one, and expect the goal scoring trend to continue. For the first time in as long as can be remembered, the Stanley Cup finalists reflect journeys of offensive skill and depth rather than defensive systems and impenetrable goaltending. Let’s face it; Antii Niemi and Michael Leighton are not exactly Vezina Trophy candidates. Many were starting to believe that Leighton was the second coming of Patrick Roy, as he recorded 3 shutouts in his first 5 playoff starts. However, a true knowledgeable hockey fan would know that it would only take an offensively inclined team like the Hawks to expose Leighton for what he truly is. Average. With that being said, many Hawks fans are knocking on Leighton for letting in 5 goals in 20 shots, and are completely ignoring the fact that their goaltender did not play much better. This series is certainly not going to be a goaltender showdown, however, if either one of these goalies can steal a game for their team, like they have earlier these playoffs, then that could be the difference maker. But still, if I was a sports bettor, I would continue to place my money on the Over total, as most games should be higher scoring due to the offensive theme in the series.
Another difference maker is Dustin Byfuglien. Although that highly anticipated top Hawks like did not record any points and were a collective -9, Big Buff continues to chip away at the Flyers defense. It is clear that Chris Pronger is going to struggle with containing Byfuglien all series long, and if Buff can continue to get in the heads of the flyers, then it could be a huge benefit to the Hawks. Flyers coaching and staff should be taking a look at how Dan Carcillo could be utilized tonight, in a role to match the antics of Byfuglien. Overall, if both teams can continue to match each other in every department, it will continue to be a tight series. Right now, who’s really to say which team will be the first to break, and succumb to the enemy? It should be a guessing game from here on, and home ice will hardly be a factor. One thing for sure is that both teams have unbelievable leadership in their two young captains, and they will not stand for a lack of effort by their teams.
By Christopher Ong Want to add your comment to this article? Leave your comments on our NHL blog today!
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