The National Hockey League Playoffs are shaping up to be an interesting series of events in the 2014 season. Interesting stories like the Redwings barley qualifying for their 23rd straight playoff season surround the league. The Lightning-Rangers late season trade of Martin St. Louis and Ryan Callahan also provides an exciting aspect. The majority of the power house squads are in the Western Conference, and there will be a battle to prove who is the top spot. The Ducks, Blues, Sharks and Blackhawks will be the favorites to take home that honor. The Blues are, in my opinion, the most complete team of the bunch. Lead by USA Olympic star T.J Oshie, and their newly acquired all-pro keeper Ryan Miller, the Blues are going to be a force when it comes playoff time. The Eastern Conference is in a different type of situation. This conference consists of 2 superpowers (Bruins and Penguins), and a bunch of squads that seem happy just to have made the post-season. Sydney Crosby and the Pens are never somebody to sleep on. His quickness and skill alone could very easily bring them far in the playoff hunt. But, the President's Cup winning Bruins (117 points) are the sure favorite, and rightfully so. With stars like centermen Patrice Bergeron, David Krecji, and Loui Erikson, they do not have many weak spots. Captain Zdeno Chara and stud defender Johnny Boychuck hold down the back in front of their All-Star goalie, Finish international Tuukka Rask. But, what makes the Bruins truly special is their depth and their experience. Campbell, Paille and Thorton run the most effective 4th line in the league, with goal production and penalty killing that is not expected out of most 4th lines. The Bs have also been to the playoffs in all of their past 6 seasons, including a Stanley Cup Championship in 2011. This familiarity is what will lead them to the finals.
FINAL PREDICTION: Bruins beat Blues in 6 games, Patrice Bergeron wins Stanley Cup Final MVP
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