The NHL playoffs will drop the puck starting Wednesday and with the new playoff format the seedings mean little to nothing concerning the match ups. Let us dig into the matchup between the No. 2 Colorado Avalanche and the No. 7 Minnesota Wild
Breakdown: The Avs used the fall of the Blues and Blackhawks to their advantage by jumping into the division lead and guaranteeing themselves two rounds of home ice. Rookie coach Patrick Roy has this group playing like a team possessed and they could be a sleeper even as a No. 2 seed. The Wild have stumbled down the stretch, but regrouped and finished very strong in the last week of the season. They have showed resilience this season and have earned 21 standing points in games they were trailing in the third period.
Wild to Watch: Ilya Bryzgalov
Bryzgalov has been less than stellar in his last two postseason appearances, one of which got his contract bought out. Bryzgalov’s playoff struggles have been well documented and the Wild’s decision to start him has been criticized. Bryzgalov won five games in his last seven starts, two of which were shutouts. The Wild are riding with the veteran for now.
Avalanche to Watch: All the young Avs
The Avs have little to no playoff experience and coach Patrick Roy won’t be suiting up in net any time soon. The Avs have been impressive all season and don’t expect them to slow down. However, they are very young and inexperienced. Don’t be surprised if they get off to a slow start in game one.
Prediction: Avalanche in 5
If experience is their only problem, the Avs should gain some early and then use it against Minnesota. Roy will have this team ready to play and they will earn home ice in the second round.
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