Saturday, April 16, 2011
NBA Conference Finals and Finals Picks
This is a tentative projection of the teams I expect to play in both the Eastern and Western Conference Finals, who will represent their conferences and who will win it all.
Eastern Conference Finals.
Chicago Bulls vs. Boston Celtics
Chicago should get through the first two rounds with ease. The Celtics will likely have the misfortune of having to go through a total 6 NBA Superstars to get to this point. The Celtics come into the playoffs losing 11 of their last 20, and although this isn't the same team as last year, they will turn it up in the playoffs. I had the big 3 going out early last season. I won't make that mistake again. However, I expect this to be the last deep postseason run for Boston. I am buying in to the Chicago hype. Derrick Rose has shown that Rajon Rondo cannot stop him and the Bulls overall are just a bad match-up for Boston.
Prediction: 4-2, Chicago
Western Conference Finals
San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Lakers
I'm going old school here. The Spurs and Lakers have dominated the West for over a decade and they account for 9 of the last 12 NBA championships. They will likely have a tough second round, but no other WC teams are as talented or battle-tested as the Lakers and Spurs. This has been a relatively one-sided rivalry as far as head-to-head match ups go. Phil Jacksons Lakers and Greg Popovich's Spurs have met 5 times in the playoffs, with Phil holding a 4-1 lead. Lakers advance.
Prediction: 4-1 Los Angeles
NBA Finals
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls
Twenty years after Michael Jordan lead the Chicago Bulls past the Los Angeles Lakers and the consummate NBA player of that era, five time champion, Magic Johnson, we will see Derrick Rose try and do the same against the consummate NBA player of this era, five time champion, Kobe Bryant. The Kobe/Magic/Rose/Jordan comparisons will be found in sports media everywhere. However this time, the living legend will complete his legacy and the up and coming superstar will have to wait another season to decorate his ring finger. Phil wins his titles in threes. The greatest coach of all time will go out on top and Kobe Bryant will strengthen his case for the distinction of the greatest player not named Michael Jordan.
Prediction: 4-1, Los Angeles
Eastern Conference Finals.
Chicago Bulls vs. Boston Celtics
Chicago should get through the first two rounds with ease. The Celtics will likely have the misfortune of having to go through a total 6 NBA Superstars to get to this point. The Celtics come into the playoffs losing 11 of their last 20, and although this isn't the same team as last year, they will turn it up in the playoffs. I had the big 3 going out early last season. I won't make that mistake again. However, I expect this to be the last deep postseason run for Boston. I am buying in to the Chicago hype. Derrick Rose has shown that Rajon Rondo cannot stop him and the Bulls overall are just a bad match-up for Boston.
Prediction: 4-2, Chicago
Western Conference Finals
San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Lakers
I'm going old school here. The Spurs and Lakers have dominated the West for over a decade and they account for 9 of the last 12 NBA championships. They will likely have a tough second round, but no other WC teams are as talented or battle-tested as the Lakers and Spurs. This has been a relatively one-sided rivalry as far as head-to-head match ups go. Phil Jacksons Lakers and Greg Popovich's Spurs have met 5 times in the playoffs, with Phil holding a 4-1 lead. Lakers advance.
Prediction: 4-1 Los Angeles
NBA Finals
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Chicago Bulls
Twenty years after Michael Jordan lead the Chicago Bulls past the Los Angeles Lakers and the consummate NBA player of that era, five time champion, Magic Johnson, we will see Derrick Rose try and do the same against the consummate NBA player of this era, five time champion, Kobe Bryant. The Kobe/Magic/Rose/Jordan comparisons will be found in sports media everywhere. However this time, the living legend will complete his legacy and the up and coming superstar will have to wait another season to decorate his ring finger. Phil wins his titles in threes. The greatest coach of all time will go out on top and Kobe Bryant will strengthen his case for the distinction of the greatest player not named Michael Jordan.
Prediction: 4-1, Los Angeles
NBA First Round Playoff Preview: Western Conference
The Western Conference is the superior conference (for now) but they are probably the easiest to project. That is provided, I am correct in my picks. While the Western conference has been the most competitive it has dominated by the Spurs and the Lakers for over a decade. The 2006 Mavericks were the only other team other team to represent the West since 1999. The Spurs and the Lakers hold the top two seeds but prerinnel contender Dallas lead by the title hungry Dirk Nowitzki looks to put an end to his playoff woes and the dark horse candidate Thunder look ready to begin a new era in the West.
1. San Antonio Spurs (61-21)
Championships: 4
Last Championship (2007)
Previous Playoff Run: 2010, Lost Second Round (4-0) to Phoenix Suns
Best Player: Tim Duncan
X-Factor: Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili
8. Memphis Grizzlies (46-36)
Championships: N/A
Previous Playoff Run: 2006, Lost First Round 4-0 to Dallas Mavericks
Best Player: Zach Randolph
X-Factor: Marc Gasol
Season Series: Tied 2-2
Most Intriguing Match-up: Zach Randolph v. Tim Duncan
Chris Broussard put the Spurs on upset alert, if Rudy Gay wasn't out, I might actually buy it. Memphis is a dangerous team with Gay. Without him, I think it's a quick series.
Prediction: 4-1, San Antonio
2. Lost Angeles Lakers (57-25)
Championships: 16
Last Championship: 2010
Previous Playoff Run: Won Finals (4-0) over Boston Celtics
Best Player: Kobe Bryant
X-Factor: Pau Gasol
7. New Orleans Hornets (46-36)
Championships: N/A
Previous Playoff Run: 2009 Lost First Round (4-1) to Denver Nuggets
Best Player: Chris Paul
X-Factor: Trevor Ariza
Season Series: 4-0 Los Angeles
Most Intriguing Match-up: If we could see a little Kobe on CP3 and vice versa
It's almost like the Lakers have the 1 seed as they managed to get the weakest team in the playoffs in the first round. The David West-less Hornets shouldn't be much of a problem for L.A. and the Lakers can probably use this as an opportunity to rest Bynum.
Prediction: 4-0 Los Angeles, and that Kobe comes out in rainbow colored sneakers in support of GLAAD.
3. Dallas Mavericks (57-25)
Championships: N/A
Previous Playoff Run: 2010, Lost First Round (4-2) to San Antonio Spurs
Best Player: Dirk Nowitzki
X-Factor: Jason Kidd
6. Portland Trail Blazers (48-34)
Championships: 1
Last Championship: 1977
Previous Playoff Run: 2010, Lost First Round (4-2) to Phoenix Suns
Best Player: LaMarcus Aldridge
X-Factor: Brandon Roy
Season Series: Tied 2-2
Most Intrguing Match-up: Dirk Nowitzki vs. LaMarcus Aldridge
UPSET ALERT! But would it really be that much of an upset? We have been waiting for Portland's break out season for years and the Aldridge-Roy era Blazers have never made it past the first round. Well, I think it's time to pop that playoff cherry. Since making the Finals in 2006 the Mavs have only advanced in the playoffs once in 2009, which could possibly be credited to a Ginobili injury. Well I expect the Mavs playoff woes to continue. Portland, time for your coming out party.
Prediction: 4-2, Portland
4. Oklahoma City Thunder (55-27)
Championships: 1
Last Championship: 1979 (As Seattle Supersonics)
Previous Playoff Run: 2010, Lost First Round (4-2) to Los Angeles Lakers
Best Player: Kevin Durant
X-Factor: Russel Westbrook
5. Denver Nuggets (50-32)
Championships: N/A
Previous Playoff Run: Lost First Round (4-2) to Utah Jazz
Best Player: Nene Hilario
X-Factor: J.R. Smith
Season Series: 3-1, Oklahoma City
Most Intriguing Match-up: Russel Westbrook vs. Denver's point guard tag-team, Ty Lawson and Raymond Felton
Denver is the feel good story of 2011. Losing their two best players, one of whom is arguably the best player the franchise has ever had and still managing to win 50 games and grab a 5 seed in the playoffs. As much as I would like the Nuggets to win, because as a Lakers fan, I fear the Thunder, the magic stops here.
Prediction: 4-1 Oklahoma City.
Friday, April 15, 2011
NEW SITE!!!
BDL will be moving to a new domain name. Within the next week the new site will be ready.
NBA First Round Playoff Preview: Eastern Conference
It's the most exciting time of the year (for me, at least) the NBA Playoffs!
First, we take a look at the Eastern Conference. The Eastern Conference is overall not as competitive than it's Western counterpart. However, this season the East is the strongest it has been since the Jordon Era. There are at least four teams that could represent the East in the Finals (Chicago, Boston, Miami, Orlando) and a maybe even a fifth contender with the new-look New York Knicks (very doubtful). I'll admit I am disappointed that the Heat beat the Celtics in their last game and won the two seed because it hindered the revival of two fierce rivalries, the Heat-Knicks, and Celtics-Sixers. Nonetheless, it should be the most exciting EC Playoffs in recent memory.
1. Chicago Bulls (62-20)
Championships: 6
Last Championship: 1998
Previous Playoff run: 2010, Lost First Round (4-1) to Cleveland Cavaliers
Best player: Derrick Rose
X-Factor: Luol Deng
8. Indiana Pacers (37-45)
Championships: N/A
Previous Playoff run: 2006, Lost First Round (4-2) to New Jersey
Best Player: Danny Granger
X-Factor: Darren Collison
Season Series: 3-1 Chicago
Most Intriguing Match-up: Danny Granger vs. Luoel Deng
The East might be stronger, but they still have that crappy 8 seed that doesn't belong in the play-offs. Barring a 1995 Denver Nuggets kind of miracle, this should be over quickly.
Prediction: 4-0 Chicago
2. Miami Heat (58-24)
Championships: 1
Last Championship: 2006
Previous Playoff Run: 2010, Lost First Round (4-1) to Boston Celtics
Best Player: LeBron James
X-Factor: The other 2/3 of the big 3
7. Philadelphia 76ers (41-41)
Championships: 3
Last Championship: 1983
Previous Playoff Run: 2009, Lost First Round (4-2) to Orlando Magic
Best Player: Andrew Iguodala
X-Factor: Elton Brand
Season Series: 3-0 Miami
Most Intriguing Match ups: Dwayne Wade vs. Andre Iguodala
The closest Philly came to Miami was 9 points. I won't waste time here.
Prediction: 4-0, Miami
3. Boston Celtics (56-26)
Championships: 17
Last Championship: 2008
Previous Playoff Run: 2010, Lost Finals (4-3) to Los Angeles Lakers
Best Player: Paul Pierce
X-Factor: Rajon Rondo
6. New York Knicks (42-40)
Championships: 2
Last Championship: 1973
Previous Playoff Run: 2004. Lost First Round (4-0) to New Jersey Nets
Best Player: Carmelo Anthony
X-Factor: Chauncey Billups
Season Series: 4-0, Boston
Most Intriguing Match-ups: Kevin Garnett vs. Amare Stoudemire, Paul Pierce vs. Carmelo Anthony, Rajon Rondo vs. Chancey Billups.
UPSET ALERT! I know Celtics hobbled into last post-season and everyone wrote them off as too old, washed up, and unhealthy. You can't write them off for their age. You can write them off because they are not the same team they once were. They have been raped in the paint by both Miami and Chicago. On the other hand, they still have 4 all-stars, 3 of which are first ballot HOF players and are of the best play-off performers of this era. It's a close call. The first round will be indicative of how well the Celtics will do for the rest of the play-offs, provided they advance.
Prediction: 4-2 Boston
4. Orlando Magic (50-32)
Championships: N/A
Previous Playoff Run: 2010, Lost Eastern Conference Finals (4-2) to Boston
Best Player: Dwight Howard
X-Factor: Hedo Turkoglu
5 Atlanta Hawks (44-38)
Championships 1
Last Championship: 1958 (As St. Louis Hawks)
Previous Playoff Run: 2010, Lost Second Round (4-0) to Orlando Magic
Best Player: Joe Johnson
X Factor: Josh Smith
Season Series: 3-1 Atlanta
Most Intriging Match up: The athletic and verstile front courts of both teams front courts
Upset alert? I doubt it. While Atlanta has the season series and Orlando did embarrass them last year in the second round, don't expect them to play with a chip on their shoulder. Atlanta is coming in on a 6 game skid and they are the most indifferent team in the NBA. It seems like they just don't give a shit.
Preditction: 4-1, Orlando
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
NHL First Round Playoff Preview: Western Conference
(1) Vancouver Canucks
Last Stanley Cup Win: NA
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1994
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Mikael Samuelsson
(8) Chicago Blackhawks
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2010
Last Stanley Cup Final: 2010
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Dave Bolland, Jonathan Toews, Troy Brouwer, Marian Hossa, Patrick Kane, Tomas Kopecky (2), Brian Campbell, Jassen Cullimore, Niklas Hjalmarsson, Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook
This series may harbor the most ill will, especially being a re-match. Last year the Hawks defeated the Canucks after a brutal and somewhat controversial series en route to the franchises first Stanley Cup title since 1961. A year later, Vancouver, a franchise that has never sipped from the cherished cup, is coming in as the favorites to not only take out Chicago, but, to dethrone them as the champions of the NHL. While Hossa and the Blackhawks may have put their respective curses behind them, all the pressure is now squarely on the shoulders of Roberto Luongo and the Canucks.
Despite being the reigning champs, Chicago backed in as the final West playoff team needing a Dallas choke to defend their title. Conversely, Vancouver knew they would be in this position all season long, they were at top the conference from jump. However, the regular season is meaningless for these guys, their interest sparks now. Luongo has had an awesome career..in the regular season and had another stellar campaign, yet, he seems to continuously come up small in the post-season year after year. He may mix in a 3 OT thriller from time to time, overall he has actually been apart of the problem not the solution. That obviously can't go on for this year to be different. I think Roberto can be that guy and teams have raised the cup despite average goalie play. If any team has the fire power to win wit sub-par gaol tending it is this seasons Canucks. They have speed, natural talent, hockey smarts, and perhaps the best line in hockey. The Sedin twins seemingly trade off which one will shine brighter each year, Henrik wins an MVP, so Daniel trumps him with 104 points and possibly one of his own. These two have played together since the whom and know where the other will be without even looking. Outside of the the sharp shooting twins, Ryan Kesler plays a nice number three. Kesler finished third on the club in scoring with 73 points, he may have been 20+ back of the brothers, however, would've been the leader most other teams. The offensive depth does not end there, Mikael Samuelsson brings a winning pedigree having made two finals trips with Detroit. He is super quick and is one of the few who can fully execute the "Gretzky wrap around." Christian Ehroff and Alexandre Burrows are nothing to sneeze at either. On paper this is by far the most well rounded team in the playoffs. Will the hockey Gods shine down on Luongo enough for all this talent to finally pay off?
I could easily see this series being the toughest test for the Canucks. Chicago won't give up their reign without a fight. The Blackhawks appear different from the last time these teams met in a series. Gone is Anti Niemi, gone is their secondary scoring, and gone is the dominance. The Blackhawks broke their drought mostly thanks to stellar play from an unknown netminder, Niemi, and gritty play by guys like Kris Versteeg. Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, and Marian Hossa (the jokes are also gone), will bring their A games, secondary scoring is necessary to make a playoff run and I just don't see enough on the 2011 Hawks. Kopecky, based on having been there before, could be that guy (he was very far back on both his ring teams depth charts). Chicago does have Duncan Keith, that elite defenseman I said was so crucial. Vancouver may have an All-Star goalie with playoff performances in question, Chicago has another unproven guy, Corey Crawford. Hey, if he doesn't work out Chicago can always answer one veteran choke artist with the king of kings at the craft, Marty Turco.
Pick: A new champion will be crowned, just not as easy as some think. Vancouver in 7
Last Stanley Cup Win: NA
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1994
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Mikael Samuelsson
(8) Chicago Blackhawks
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2010
Last Stanley Cup Final: 2010
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Dave Bolland, Jonathan Toews, Troy Brouwer, Marian Hossa, Patrick Kane, Tomas Kopecky (2), Brian Campbell, Jassen Cullimore, Niklas Hjalmarsson, Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook
This series may harbor the most ill will, especially being a re-match. Last year the Hawks defeated the Canucks after a brutal and somewhat controversial series en route to the franchises first Stanley Cup title since 1961. A year later, Vancouver, a franchise that has never sipped from the cherished cup, is coming in as the favorites to not only take out Chicago, but, to dethrone them as the champions of the NHL. While Hossa and the Blackhawks may have put their respective curses behind them, all the pressure is now squarely on the shoulders of Roberto Luongo and the Canucks.
Despite being the reigning champs, Chicago backed in as the final West playoff team needing a Dallas choke to defend their title. Conversely, Vancouver knew they would be in this position all season long, they were at top the conference from jump. However, the regular season is meaningless for these guys, their interest sparks now. Luongo has had an awesome career..in the regular season and had another stellar campaign, yet, he seems to continuously come up small in the post-season year after year. He may mix in a 3 OT thriller from time to time, overall he has actually been apart of the problem not the solution. That obviously can't go on for this year to be different. I think Roberto can be that guy and teams have raised the cup despite average goalie play. If any team has the fire power to win wit sub-par gaol tending it is this seasons Canucks. They have speed, natural talent, hockey smarts, and perhaps the best line in hockey. The Sedin twins seemingly trade off which one will shine brighter each year, Henrik wins an MVP, so Daniel trumps him with 104 points and possibly one of his own. These two have played together since the whom and know where the other will be without even looking. Outside of the the sharp shooting twins, Ryan Kesler plays a nice number three. Kesler finished third on the club in scoring with 73 points, he may have been 20+ back of the brothers, however, would've been the leader most other teams. The offensive depth does not end there, Mikael Samuelsson brings a winning pedigree having made two finals trips with Detroit. He is super quick and is one of the few who can fully execute the "Gretzky wrap around." Christian Ehroff and Alexandre Burrows are nothing to sneeze at either. On paper this is by far the most well rounded team in the playoffs. Will the hockey Gods shine down on Luongo enough for all this talent to finally pay off?
I could easily see this series being the toughest test for the Canucks. Chicago won't give up their reign without a fight. The Blackhawks appear different from the last time these teams met in a series. Gone is Anti Niemi, gone is their secondary scoring, and gone is the dominance. The Blackhawks broke their drought mostly thanks to stellar play from an unknown netminder, Niemi, and gritty play by guys like Kris Versteeg. Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, and Marian Hossa (the jokes are also gone), will bring their A games, secondary scoring is necessary to make a playoff run and I just don't see enough on the 2011 Hawks. Kopecky, based on having been there before, could be that guy (he was very far back on both his ring teams depth charts). Chicago does have Duncan Keith, that elite defenseman I said was so crucial. Vancouver may have an All-Star goalie with playoff performances in question, Chicago has another unproven guy, Corey Crawford. Hey, if he doesn't work out Chicago can always answer one veteran choke artist with the king of kings at the craft, Marty Turco.
Pick: A new champion will be crowned, just not as easy as some think. Vancouver in 7
NBA Draft Rankings: 1-5
1 1. Kyrie Irving: PG, Freshman, Duke
Irving is the cream of the crop in what might be the worst draft class since 2001. He only played in 11 games, but averaged 17.5 points per game and 4.3 assists per game. Three adjectives to describe Irving would be efficient, unselfish and exciting. He is not Derrick Rose or John Wall, but he has the potential to be an All-Star down the road. He did miss 26 games due to a toe injury, he would return for the NCAA tournament where he averaged 17.6 points per game.
He has excellent court vision and a good jump shot, shooting 52.9 % from the field and 46.2 % from three. He is capable of making shots off the dribble and has a high basketball IQ. On the defensive side of the ball he has good size, speed and quickness to guard the top guards in the league. Kyrie Irving will have no problem transitioning into the NBA.
NBA comparison: Russell Westbrook
2. 2. Derrick Williams: PF, Sophomore, Arizona
Many people consider Derrick Williams the top prospect in the draft. At 6-8” 235 lbs I am not ready to say he is the top prospect. He had a terrific season in Tucson, where he averaged 19.5 points per game and 8.3 rebounds per game. He may have been the most productive player in college basketball, but that does not mean it will translate to the NBA.
The problem is that he does not have a true position at the next level. At 6-8” he is undersized for a power forward and he cannot play at small forward because he is average off the dribble. He will not be able to post up at the same rate he can in college, but with that said he would still be able to create his own shot. He can shoot the three ball well at 56.8 %, but he only attempted 27 threes all season.
NBA comparison: Michael Beasley
3. 3. Harrison Barnes: SF, Freshman, UNC
Touted as the next Kobe Bryant coming out of high school, Harrison Barnes struggled in the first half of the season. It wasn’t until Jan. 29 against NC State when Barnes scored 25 points that he showed people he deserved all the praise. He finished his freshman season averaging 15.7 points per game and 5.8 rebounds per game, but over the final two months he averaged 19.7 points per game.
Barnes has showed that he has that rare clutch gene. At 6-8” his skill level translates perfectly to the NBA. He can shoot the three, create off the dribble and rebound. He is the most polished offensive player in this draft. The only knock on Harrison Barnes is that he does not have elite athleticism.
NBA comparison: Danny Granger
4. 4. Enes Kanter: C, Freshman, Kentucky
The NCAA ruled Kanter ineligible at the beginning of the season for accepting illegal benefits while playing for a club team in Europe. That however does not stop me from loving his game. It’s hard to gage Kanter due to the fact he never played a game at Kentucky, but at 6-10” 265lbs, he has an NBA ready body.
In the 2009 FIBA U18 Championships, Kanter led Turkey to a bronze medal, while averaging 18.6 points and 16.4 rebounds. In the 2010 Nike Hoop Summit against Jared Sullinger, Kanter dropped 34 points and 13 rebounds. Kanter has the frame to rebound well; if he can continue to develop a offensive game Kanter could be a force at the next level.
NBA comparison: Al Horford
5. 5. Jonas Valanciunas: PF, 18 Years Old, Lietuvos Rytas (Lithuania)
The top rated international player on almost everyone’s board and for good reason. At 6-10” Valanciunas has the size and rebounding ability to compete in the NBA. Against Kanter in U-18 Championships he averaged 19.3 points per game, 10.6 rebounds per game and 2.6 blocks. This season he competed in the highest level of European basketball and averaged 21.8 points, 13.6 rebounds and 1.8 blocks.
I love Valanciunas long arms; he has the ability to be a game changer on the defensive end. The question I have is did he already reach his peak? His offensive skill set is also bare. If he is going to succeed at the next level he will have to develop some low post moves.
NBA comparison: Andrea Bargnani
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
NHL First Round Playoff Preview: Eastern Conference
(1) Washington Capitals
Last Stanley Cup win: NA
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1998
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Mike Knuble, Jason Arnott
(8) New York Rangers
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1994
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1994
Last Post-season Appearance: 2009
Players With Bling: Chris Drury, Ruslan Fedotenko
Unlike in the NBA, the 8th seed has defeated the conferences top seed almost 30% of the time. The Capitals know this stat all to well, they suffered a TKO by Montreal last post-season. As shocking as that upset was it was done thanks to a hot goalie, that is usually the sticking point to most hockey upsets. If a goalie stands on his head even a cast of 10 hall of famer won't have a shot (Giguere beating & the 2003 RedWings). With this lead in, you guys are probably thinking, is he going to do it..? To get that out of the way now, no. I absolutely love Henrik Lundqvist and think he is a future hall of fame guy, who will eventually lead his team towards a cup run (he already led Sweden to a gold medal). However, despite another stellar season by the King, the Rangers just do not have enough for that to be this year. Marion Gaborik has been able to keep his career on track by going to New York, so much so he has become the best player on a playoff team again. Unfortunately the Rangers realize this almost too much and rely heavily on Gaborik. This team has a great budding defenseman, Mark Staal (from a great hockey family too), a fabulous goalie still in his prime, a cup winning head coach, yet, does not have enough consistent offense to win a best of 7. Drury is back, and he is one of the two with a ring....that's all he has earned for me to say about him. Maybe he will turn back the clock and rekindle his Avs days, he was once a key role player that soared Colorado to a title. Most likely he will not, even when rarely healthy he is averaging far below a point a game during his NYR tenure.
The Caps on the other hand appear on paper poised to finally go the distance. Ovechkin has had a down year based on the standard he previously set, but, still blasted over 30. Alexander the Great is a super-star scoring sensation who commands the opponents attention at all times. He can explode at a moments notice, don't be shocked. The other Alexander, Semin, has had the Robin to Ovechkin's Batman written all over him since joining the squad. Semin and company will need to play to form (secondary scoring wins in the playoffs), the Rangers have written the script of what happens when you say I got one great guy go win it for us on your own. The Caps have two Robin's, Backstrom was their second leading scorer this season, the Rangers have none.
I fully believe New York's original six team is one top forward away from a deep run. Brad Richards could very well be that guy withe Torterella Tampa 2004 cup connection. Richards is on the tail end of his career, but, he may be all Gaborik needs to truly make them elite. Gotta love another Ovechkin V.S. King Lundqvist battle. I'd love to see Henrik stone the NHL's best pitchman, I just don't see it happening.
Pick: Capitals in 6 (Henrik gets you a game at least)
(2) Philadelphia Flyers
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1975
Last Stanley Cup Final: 2010
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Nick Boynton, Sean O'Donell, Chris Pronger, Kris Versteeg
(7) Buffalo Sabres
Last Stanley Cup Win: NA
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1999
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Scott Niedermayer
This series may be one of the best to watch in the entire first round. It pits U.S. Olympic netminder, Ryan Miller, against a team one game away from snapping a title drought last year. Miller, like Lundqvist with the Rangers, is the straw that stirs the drink in Buffalo. He is an absolute beast and has stepped up when the pressure was on (remind you of another Sabres goalie about a decade ago..). Unfortunately, the reason Buffalo is still without a cup after 5 decades in the league, they never surrounded Hasek with enough (NY please don't let history repeat itself). Hasek got them close (yes, Hull's foot was in the crease..no you didn't win the cup), however, if any goalie can dethrone the reigning East champions it is Miller. The Sabres do have some talent around him, don't get me wrong. Vanek, Roy, and Pominville all can provide a needed goal and are true play makers. Injuries have hampered Roy's career, the rest have underachieved at times. The Gaborik of this team has become Thomas Vanek. His 73 points this season led the team by double digits over the next guy and he is one of the best at creating space for his teammates. Will the defense be enough in front of Miller? That is one of the biggest questions around Buffalo. If Miller is not asked to stand on his head every night and pick up 40 saves, the Sabres could be dark horse, if he is, they could be golfing by mid April.
The Flyers have almost everyone back from last years Stanley Cup final game 7 loss. The only difference in the lineup are few extra pieces. Look at the last 10 or so finals teams, I dare you to find me one without an elite shutdown defenseman. Chris Pronger embodies that phrase and has been that guy on 3 different finals teams, including the 2010 Flyers. Pronger's health has been an issue all year and probably cost them the East top seed. The reason this pest is going to the Hall of Fame someday can truly be seen by his play the last few seasons. He may no longer be the league MVP and Lidstrom like scorer, but, Pronger just knows what it takes to win. He has size, physicality, and can completely get in the head of every opponent, with just a stare. While he may lack class at times, everything he does is calculated. The Flyers will go as far as Pronger takes them. His help comes from Danny Briere, Claude Giroux, Mike Richards, and Jeff Carter. This trio has traded off as the leaders of the offense over the years, either way they all are notable. The Flyers can win because they not only have the elite scorers, they also own tons of secondary weapons. Ville Leino's game has matured every year and now that he has been given a chance to play every night (came up with a loaded Detroit team) he has taken the league by storm. Leino put up 53 points in 81 games and has been nothing but awesome in each of his post-seasons with Detroit and Philly (both finals losses). In addition to Leino, Hartnell, Carle, and Versteeg would be top lone guys on most other teams. Versteeg is also a key asset. Philly acquired him from Toronto at the deadline based on what he did against them breaking Chicago's drought instead of that of the city of brotherly love. Can the Flyers catch lightning in a bottle again and not let the lack of a star goalie prevent 1975 from being an after thought?
Pick: Flyers in 7
(3) Boston Bruins
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1972
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1990
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Mark Recchi (2), Shawn Thornton
(6) Montreal Canadiens
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1993
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1993
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Scott Gomez (2), Brian Gionta, Travis Moen, Hal Gill, Brent Sopel
The NHL's oldest rivalry will meet for the 34th time in the post-season. Out of those previous 33 series, Montreal has won 24. Ironically enough they have also captured 24 Stanley Cups to only 4 earned by Boston. I wouldn't call this series star powered by any means and with the exception of Tim Thomas, the casual fan probably can't name 5 guys who will have skates on. None the less, it is always must see TV when two original six teams meet, especially these two.
Last year the Habs turned the hockey world upside down thanks to Halak literally playing out of his mind. In order to advance this time they will need Carey Price to do the same and then some. Price was touted as the Next great Montreal goalie when he first came up, he faltered, lost his job, the organization backed him, and now he has repaid that support. Price posted a Vezina type campaign and is primed to finally be that all-star he was first thought to be. Outside of Price, Montreal does have secondary scoring! The issue is....that's all they have. The Canadiens lineup makes the Rangers look like muderers row. As shockingly as this is Montreal failed to post a 60 point man. Thomas Plekanec lead the team with 57 points and grizzled vet Brian Gionta somehow has a 29 next to his goal total. They were able to manufacture goals and advance off of just garbage tallies last year, this season that will not be nearly enough.
Boston got to experience a comeback from a 3-0 series deficit again, just unlike the 2004 RedSox the Bruins were on the wrong side of the coin. They had their first finals trip in 20 years all but sealed up before blowing it. I will give credit where it's due, instead of letting one of the worst collapses in sport history linger, The Bruins stayed the course and were one of the best teams in the NHL. This was due in part to the eventual two time Vezina trophy winner Tim Thomas throwing the team on his back all year. Thomas posted a 35-11 record, a 2.00 GAA, and a .938 save % in 57 games. Despite how great Thomas was, he was not alone in in the Boston net. The Bruins are probably the only team that is comfortable with both the starter and back up seeing action. Tuuka Rask, the Bruin starter during an injury plagued Thomas 09-10, was 3 games under .500 record wise, but, appeared in almost 30 games and owns a .918 save clip. Talk about a two headed monster. The Boston weakness, much like Montreal, they do not have any elite scorers. Fortunately for the Bruins, they received the best possible matchup in the first round. Not only is Montreal the only team with less offensive fire power, Boston has the wildcard....Zdeno Chara has the body of an NBA center (With the way things are going he might have a shot at cracking a roster too), Datsyuk like stick handling, and a goon like mentality. Chara created a storyline that doesn't rely on history for this series just a few months ago. While it certainly will make things interesting, it won't affect the outcome. Chara usually shutdowns the opposing top man, if he does that here the Habs may not score at all. Zdeno has a running mate on the bluline too, Tomas Kaberle is a fellow all-star to add to the Boston defensive effort. The Bruins are at the bottom of the pack offensivly, but, may be the best defensive team in the playoffs. You know what they say? Offense wins game, defense wins championships.
One extra reason to watch....there is a rumor Chara may actually be arrested on site at the first game in Montreal. Now if he's in jail during the series I may change my pick.
Pick: Bruins in 5
(4) Pittsburgh Penguins
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2009
Last Stanley Cup Final: 2009
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Chris Kunitz (2), Craig Adams (2), Marc-Andre Fleury, Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Jordan Staal, Alex Kovalev, Pascal Dupuis, Matt Cooke (Ass Clown), Kris Letang, Brooks Orpik, Tyler Kennedy, Michael Rupp, Max Talbot, Eric Godard
(5) Tampa Bay Lightning
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2004
Last Stanley Cup Final: 2004
Last Post-season Appearance: 2007
Players With Bling: Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis, Pavel Kubina
It's almost a shame, this series would look so different if Crosby played. I do not think he will and I wouldn't play him to get that out there. Not having to deal with the best in the world is certainly going to be a bonus for Tampa. This would be the equivalent to Kobe Bryant sitting out last years first round against the Thunder. OKC was in their first playoff series with a young group and is now the next up and coming contender in the NBA. I see the Lightning as that in hockey. Normally I would feel a quick exit and then making a run next season. Without Crosby, the Buzz-saw has to sit and ponder their fate a little further.
Tampa has veterans, top line players, a Hall of Fame GM who knows how to win the post-season (Yzerman), and a young sensation that has already once beat out Sid for the league scoring title. Sounds like a recipe for success to me. The Lightning will send out the likes of St. Louis and Lecavalier, two guys that have been there and done that. These two guys can both carry a team at any time and were very clutch during the 2004 championship. While those two are great (St. Louis still lead team in points, 99), neither are the future. The future is now in Tampa and that comes in 21 year old, 200 LB, beast. Steven Stamos had Crosby level hype when he was drafted and has fully earned that praise. Unlike Sid and Alex, he waited until his sophomore year to have his coming out party. Once he was allowed to turn it on, the off button broke off all together. Forty goal seasons are a lock and there is not a goalie alive who looks forward to seeing Stamkos wind up. This guy has mentors all around and is a guarantee success story and perennial All-Star.
Will Tampa's lack of a true starting goalie cost them a deep run they seem destined for? TB has two back ups, Mike Smith who was originally the guy and is very inconsistent, and Dwayne Roloson, the new starter and former playoff 2010 Halak type.
As for the Pens minus their captain, which Fleury will walk through that door. Fleury has proved he can lead a team to the finals, did so twice, and win a cup, see 2009, yet, he has also shown he can give up bone headed rebounds and appear average. He HAS to outplay whoever is between the pipes for Tampa for the Pens to win. The Lightning are a better team on paper with Crosby not in the mix, if they get equal or better goaltending this could be ugly. Yes, Malkin is there, Jordan Staal, is one of the best faceoff men and third line centers in the league, and Letang is a true Norris candidate, but, TB has every piece Pittsburgh does outside of the net.
Pick: I'm nervous to do this....I just have a gut feeling about this one. Lightning in 7
Last Stanley Cup win: NA
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1998
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Mike Knuble, Jason Arnott
(8) New York Rangers
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1994
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1994
Last Post-season Appearance: 2009
Players With Bling: Chris Drury, Ruslan Fedotenko
The Caps on the other hand appear on paper poised to finally go the distance. Ovechkin has had a down year based on the standard he previously set, but, still blasted over 30. Alexander the Great is a super-star scoring sensation who commands the opponents attention at all times. He can explode at a moments notice, don't be shocked. The other Alexander, Semin, has had the Robin to Ovechkin's Batman written all over him since joining the squad. Semin and company will need to play to form (secondary scoring wins in the playoffs), the Rangers have written the script of what happens when you say I got one great guy go win it for us on your own. The Caps have two Robin's, Backstrom was their second leading scorer this season, the Rangers have none.
I fully believe New York's original six team is one top forward away from a deep run. Brad Richards could very well be that guy withe Torterella Tampa 2004 cup connection. Richards is on the tail end of his career, but, he may be all Gaborik needs to truly make them elite. Gotta love another Ovechkin V.S. King Lundqvist battle. I'd love to see Henrik stone the NHL's best pitchman, I just don't see it happening.
Pick: Capitals in 6 (Henrik gets you a game at least)
(2) Philadelphia Flyers
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1975
Last Stanley Cup Final: 2010
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Nick Boynton, Sean O'Donell, Chris Pronger, Kris Versteeg
(7) Buffalo Sabres
Last Stanley Cup Win: NA
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1999
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Scott Niedermayer
This series may be one of the best to watch in the entire first round. It pits U.S. Olympic netminder, Ryan Miller, against a team one game away from snapping a title drought last year. Miller, like Lundqvist with the Rangers, is the straw that stirs the drink in Buffalo. He is an absolute beast and has stepped up when the pressure was on (remind you of another Sabres goalie about a decade ago..). Unfortunately, the reason Buffalo is still without a cup after 5 decades in the league, they never surrounded Hasek with enough (NY please don't let history repeat itself). Hasek got them close (yes, Hull's foot was in the crease..no you didn't win the cup), however, if any goalie can dethrone the reigning East champions it is Miller. The Sabres do have some talent around him, don't get me wrong. Vanek, Roy, and Pominville all can provide a needed goal and are true play makers. Injuries have hampered Roy's career, the rest have underachieved at times. The Gaborik of this team has become Thomas Vanek. His 73 points this season led the team by double digits over the next guy and he is one of the best at creating space for his teammates. Will the defense be enough in front of Miller? That is one of the biggest questions around Buffalo. If Miller is not asked to stand on his head every night and pick up 40 saves, the Sabres could be dark horse, if he is, they could be golfing by mid April.
The Flyers have almost everyone back from last years Stanley Cup final game 7 loss. The only difference in the lineup are few extra pieces. Look at the last 10 or so finals teams, I dare you to find me one without an elite shutdown defenseman. Chris Pronger embodies that phrase and has been that guy on 3 different finals teams, including the 2010 Flyers. Pronger's health has been an issue all year and probably cost them the East top seed. The reason this pest is going to the Hall of Fame someday can truly be seen by his play the last few seasons. He may no longer be the league MVP and Lidstrom like scorer, but, Pronger just knows what it takes to win. He has size, physicality, and can completely get in the head of every opponent, with just a stare. While he may lack class at times, everything he does is calculated. The Flyers will go as far as Pronger takes them. His help comes from Danny Briere, Claude Giroux, Mike Richards, and Jeff Carter. This trio has traded off as the leaders of the offense over the years, either way they all are notable. The Flyers can win because they not only have the elite scorers, they also own tons of secondary weapons. Ville Leino's game has matured every year and now that he has been given a chance to play every night (came up with a loaded Detroit team) he has taken the league by storm. Leino put up 53 points in 81 games and has been nothing but awesome in each of his post-seasons with Detroit and Philly (both finals losses). In addition to Leino, Hartnell, Carle, and Versteeg would be top lone guys on most other teams. Versteeg is also a key asset. Philly acquired him from Toronto at the deadline based on what he did against them breaking Chicago's drought instead of that of the city of brotherly love. Can the Flyers catch lightning in a bottle again and not let the lack of a star goalie prevent 1975 from being an after thought?
Pick: Flyers in 7
(3) Boston Bruins
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1972
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1990
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Mark Recchi (2), Shawn Thornton
(6) Montreal Canadiens
Last Stanley Cup Win: 1993
Last Stanley Cup Final: 1993
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Scott Gomez (2), Brian Gionta, Travis Moen, Hal Gill, Brent Sopel
The NHL's oldest rivalry will meet for the 34th time in the post-season. Out of those previous 33 series, Montreal has won 24. Ironically enough they have also captured 24 Stanley Cups to only 4 earned by Boston. I wouldn't call this series star powered by any means and with the exception of Tim Thomas, the casual fan probably can't name 5 guys who will have skates on. None the less, it is always must see TV when two original six teams meet, especially these two.
Last year the Habs turned the hockey world upside down thanks to Halak literally playing out of his mind. In order to advance this time they will need Carey Price to do the same and then some. Price was touted as the Next great Montreal goalie when he first came up, he faltered, lost his job, the organization backed him, and now he has repaid that support. Price posted a Vezina type campaign and is primed to finally be that all-star he was first thought to be. Outside of Price, Montreal does have secondary scoring! The issue is....that's all they have. The Canadiens lineup makes the Rangers look like muderers row. As shockingly as this is Montreal failed to post a 60 point man. Thomas Plekanec lead the team with 57 points and grizzled vet Brian Gionta somehow has a 29 next to his goal total. They were able to manufacture goals and advance off of just garbage tallies last year, this season that will not be nearly enough.
Boston got to experience a comeback from a 3-0 series deficit again, just unlike the 2004 RedSox the Bruins were on the wrong side of the coin. They had their first finals trip in 20 years all but sealed up before blowing it. I will give credit where it's due, instead of letting one of the worst collapses in sport history linger, The Bruins stayed the course and were one of the best teams in the NHL. This was due in part to the eventual two time Vezina trophy winner Tim Thomas throwing the team on his back all year. Thomas posted a 35-11 record, a 2.00 GAA, and a .938 save % in 57 games. Despite how great Thomas was, he was not alone in in the Boston net. The Bruins are probably the only team that is comfortable with both the starter and back up seeing action. Tuuka Rask, the Bruin starter during an injury plagued Thomas 09-10, was 3 games under .500 record wise, but, appeared in almost 30 games and owns a .918 save clip. Talk about a two headed monster. The Boston weakness, much like Montreal, they do not have any elite scorers. Fortunately for the Bruins, they received the best possible matchup in the first round. Not only is Montreal the only team with less offensive fire power, Boston has the wildcard....Zdeno Chara has the body of an NBA center (With the way things are going he might have a shot at cracking a roster too), Datsyuk like stick handling, and a goon like mentality. Chara created a storyline that doesn't rely on history for this series just a few months ago. While it certainly will make things interesting, it won't affect the outcome. Chara usually shutdowns the opposing top man, if he does that here the Habs may not score at all. Zdeno has a running mate on the bluline too, Tomas Kaberle is a fellow all-star to add to the Boston defensive effort. The Bruins are at the bottom of the pack offensivly, but, may be the best defensive team in the playoffs. You know what they say? Offense wins game, defense wins championships.
One extra reason to watch....there is a rumor Chara may actually be arrested on site at the first game in Montreal. Now if he's in jail during the series I may change my pick.
Pick: Bruins in 5
(4) Pittsburgh Penguins
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2009
Last Stanley Cup Final: 2009
Last Post-season Appearance: 2010
Players With Bling: Chris Kunitz (2), Craig Adams (2), Marc-Andre Fleury, Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Jordan Staal, Alex Kovalev, Pascal Dupuis, Matt Cooke (Ass Clown), Kris Letang, Brooks Orpik, Tyler Kennedy, Michael Rupp, Max Talbot, Eric Godard
(5) Tampa Bay Lightning
Last Stanley Cup Win: 2004
Last Stanley Cup Final: 2004
Last Post-season Appearance: 2007
Players With Bling: Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis, Pavel Kubina
It's almost a shame, this series would look so different if Crosby played. I do not think he will and I wouldn't play him to get that out there. Not having to deal with the best in the world is certainly going to be a bonus for Tampa. This would be the equivalent to Kobe Bryant sitting out last years first round against the Thunder. OKC was in their first playoff series with a young group and is now the next up and coming contender in the NBA. I see the Lightning as that in hockey. Normally I would feel a quick exit and then making a run next season. Without Crosby, the Buzz-saw has to sit and ponder their fate a little further.
Will Tampa's lack of a true starting goalie cost them a deep run they seem destined for? TB has two back ups, Mike Smith who was originally the guy and is very inconsistent, and Dwayne Roloson, the new starter and former playoff 2010 Halak type.
As for the Pens minus their captain, which Fleury will walk through that door. Fleury has proved he can lead a team to the finals, did so twice, and win a cup, see 2009, yet, he has also shown he can give up bone headed rebounds and appear average. He HAS to outplay whoever is between the pipes for Tampa for the Pens to win. The Lightning are a better team on paper with Crosby not in the mix, if they get equal or better goaltending this could be ugly. Yes, Malkin is there, Jordan Staal, is one of the best faceoff men and third line centers in the league, and Letang is a true Norris candidate, but, TB has every piece Pittsburgh does outside of the net.
Pick: I'm nervous to do this....I just have a gut feeling about this one. Lightning in 7
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)