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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
 Posted - 04/03/2012 : 05:26:41
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Poll Question:
Which potential/confirmed 1st round playoff match-up looks to be the most exciting and compelling?
Give us your reasons below!
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
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Beans15
Moderator
Canada
8286 Posts |
Posted - 04/03/2012 : 05:31:36
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I think anyone who watched the game on Sunday would likely say the Pitt/Philly match up is primed to be a hard fought battle. Crosby is back but Philly has beaten Pitt in 4 if 5 match ups.
The only other match ups I want to see this year would be Van/Chi and a Cup finals rematch of Bos/Van. |
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Guest9262
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Posted - 04/03/2012 : 05:53:03
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| Where's Boston vs Ottawa This matchup will be the Best one for sure. |
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Guest4178
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Posted - 04/03/2012 : 08:22:46
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And what about Florida-New Jersey? :)
Just kidding. To me, it's the Philly-Penguins match-up for sure! And I would have said this before their recent game.
It's too bad one of these two teams will be eliminated after the first round, and it's too bad that either Florida or New Jersey will make it to the second round.
I'm not knocking Florida or New Jersey. You can't blame them for the division they play in, or the playoff seedings which permit the top teams in each division to be seeded 1, 2 and 3 in the conference standings. (Putting Florida ahead of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia for example.)
But for excitement and entertainment value, there are too many great match-ups, and of all the conceivable match-ups in the first round, I would put Florida-New Jersey last on my watch list! (And yes, I know New Jersey has Kovalchuk, Parise, etc.) |
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Alex116
PickupHockey Legend
6113 Posts |
Posted - 04/03/2012 : 09:02:09
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quote:
Originally posted by Beans15
The only other match ups I want to see this year would be Van/Chi and a Cup finals rematch of Bos/Van.
AND? Well, to say "and" means that you're picking the Canucks to beat the Hawks eh?  Personally, as much as it's exciting, my heart will have no problem with the Canucks having nothing to do with the Blackhawks this spring! 
I agree, after last weekend, how can anyone not want to see Philly / Pitt? Could be a really good, long series! |
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Clatts
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
266 Posts |
Posted - 04/03/2012 : 09:08:26
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Philly/Pitt gets my vote
Did anyone hear Millburys comments on Crosby?
Should be a good a series, Whoever wins should have a decent shot at the cup. It also throws a wrench into my playoff pool strategy, how do you pick players from either team knowing the series could go either way?
"Most of the guys that wear them are Europeans and French Guys."
Don Cherry on Visors |
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Cyclonis
Top Prospect
Canada
56 Posts |
Posted - 04/03/2012 : 10:23:45
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The recent scrap has the Pitt/Philly series front and center! I don't doubt a lot of the unnecessary BS will disappear as soon as the playoffs hit! It will be an interesting last day of the season for sure on April 7th!
Hard to see anything comparing...although as Alex 116 points out a Vancouver/Chicago second round matchup – D. Keith VS. The Sedins would be very interesting! I think there may be some bad blood between these two teams now and the Hawks have a good team that can push Vancouver out of its comfort zone.
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Guest4178
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Posted - 04/03/2012 : 11:08:50
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The playoffs will probably start early for the Flyers and Penguins. They meet each other on the last day of the regular season, and home ice advantage could be up for grabs. It should be a great game on Saturday April 7th!
As it relates to Mike Milbury's comments, he's since apologized for calling Crosby a puke and a goody two shoes. Sometimes I think this guy is auditioning for Don Cherry's job, whenever Cherry eventually retires.
Lastly, I wonder if the Penguins will call up enforcer Steve Macintyre from the minors for the final game of the season? I doubt they will – it's unlikely the Penguins will dress a player who can only fill one role for a big game, or the playoffs. |
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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
Posted - 04/03/2012 : 11:45:46
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quote:
Originally posted by Guest9262
Where's Boston vs Ottawa This matchup will be the Best one for sure.
The Boston vs, Ottawa match-up has no history, other than a key player for Boston having started his career in Ottawa (Chara). And it's quite likely the Bruins are just too much for the Sens, at least, that's how it looks right now (never really know).
Yawn!
Yeah, my pick is Philly / Pittsburgh as well . . . it's got evrything: star power (the most of any series I'd say), bad blood, old rivals, state / geographic rivals, fight-filled reg season games just beforehand, coach smack talk . . . there couldn't BE more of a preamble, could there?
But there are other potential good ones that I also look forward to, and which could be just as good:
Vancouver / Chicago
I think Chicago would go into this series like a wounded bear, and we all know how close it was last year, game 7 OT. Daniel Sedin just coming back from concussion, Keith back from suspension, and all the bad blood and happenings from before added in there as colourful history.
NY Rangers / Buffalo
It's regional; it's David vs. Goliath; it's a red hot 8th place team against a cooling off 1st place team. But most of all, it's a goaltending clinic by two of the very best, Lundqvist and Miller, and of course all those low-scoring, tight games only means a grittier, tougher, hard fought series. If Buffalo can squeeze into the playoffs, I expect a few multiple overtime games here!
Detroit / Nashville
Lidstrom's last stand perhaps? Weber's coming out party for the playoffs? There is a healthy hate here between these two perrennial playoff contestants, and Detroit ain't what it used to be. Not only that, but Nashville has quietly loaded up with pure playoff performers. Looks like it could be lots of tight, low scoring overtime games here.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
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Clatts
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
266 Posts |
Posted - 04/03/2012 : 12:34:40
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quote:
Originally posted by slozo
quote:
Originally posted by Guest9262
Where's Boston vs Ottawa This matchup will be the Best one for sure.
The Boston vs, Ottawa match-up has no history, other than a key player for Boston having started his career in Ottawa (Chara). And it's quite likely the Bruins are just too much for the Sens, at least, that's how it looks right now (never really know).
Yawn!
Chara started his career in New York with the Islanders, He was traded along with Muckalt and a 2nd overall pick (Spezza) for Yashin at the 2001 entry draft. He played like 3 seasons there.
"Most of the guys that wear them are Europeans and French Guys."
Don Cherry on Visors |
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Alex116
PickupHockey Legend
6113 Posts |
Posted - 04/03/2012 : 15:33:10
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quote:
Originally posted by Cyclonis
Hard to see anything comparing...although as Alex 116 points out a Vancouver/Chicago second round matchup – D. Keith VS. The Sedins would be very interesting! I think there may be some bad blood between these two teams now and the Hawks have a good team that can push Vancouver out of its comfort zone.
Ya think???
I have a feeling that if this were a first round matchup, that it would be leading the poll, even with the recent Pens/Flyers dust up. The Canucks and Hawks aren't guaranteed to meet at this point so it may be hard for some to pick that one. There's still a lot of movement that could occur, but currently Vancouver sits at 1 and Chi at 6. Even round 2 isn't a guarantee if Chi wins as the 7 seed could win and get the Canucks (if they stay at the top seed). Lot's of hockey left! Well, only 2-3 games each, but still.... |
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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
Posted - 04/04/2012 : 05:06:39
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quote:
Originally posted by Clatts
quote:
Originally posted by slozo
quote:
Originally posted by Guest9262
Where's Boston vs Ottawa This matchup will be the Best one for sure.
The Boston vs, Ottawa match-up has no history, other than a key player for Boston having started his career in Ottawa (Chara). And it's quite likely the Bruins are just too much for the Sens, at least, that's how it looks right now (never really know).
Yawn!
Chara started his career in New York with the Islanders, He was traded along with Muckalt and a 2nd overall pick (Spezza) for Yashin at the 2001 entry draft. He played like 3 seasons there.
"Most of the guys that wear them are Europeans and French Guys."
Don Cherry on Visors
I sit corrected, forgot that he started with the Isles. Even more boring!
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
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Guest3524
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Posted - 04/04/2012 : 05:53:14
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Sens vs. Bruins could be interesting. Ottawa can beat Boston, but can they hold out for a seven game series? Boston tends to be the most vulnerable in the first round. Ottawa tends to fall flat when up against a hot goalie. This could be the upset in the east, but the Sens won't make it past the second round. The pre-postseason game is tonight.
Philly/Pittsburg will be a good series, it will be a war of attrition. Detroit/Nashville would be another good one if it happens. |
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ryan93
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
996 Posts |
Posted - 04/04/2012 : 06:29:49
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I voted Pittsburgh/Philly. The battle of PA would of got my vote before this past weekends game, but even more so now!
I'm going to NYC tomorrow and taking in the Rangers season finale against the Capitals on Saturday at MSG. Should be an interesting game seeing as not only will it be a must win game for the Caps, but could also be a a 1st round matchup! |
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Guest8384
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Posted - 04/04/2012 : 10:35:26
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Besides the Pittsburgh Philly series. I would love to see
NYR vs Boston
NYR VS Devils
Van vs Chi
Pure Hockey I would like to see
Vancouver vs Detroit |
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Guest5091
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Posted - 04/04/2012 : 13:05:06
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I voted pitt/philly, but I think Ott/Bos comes in second.
These are two of the toughest teams in the league and even though Ottawa is the underdog, they're a real wildcard. They could flame out in 4 just as much as they could beat Boston.
The problem with Ottawa is that as soon as any of Spezza/Karlsson/Alfredsson/Anderson go down to injury, any hope they have goes up in smoke with them. |
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Cyclonis
Top Prospect
Canada
56 Posts |
Posted - 04/04/2012 : 16:06:02
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Yep i think so ALex. LOL!
I do hope they meet this year...would make for some great hockey! |
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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
Posted - 04/05/2012 : 08:20:46
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quote:
Originally posted by Guest5091
I voted pitt/philly, but I think Ott/Bos comes in second.
These are two of the toughest teams in the league and even though Ottawa is the underdog, they're a real wildcard. They could flame out in 4 just as much as they could beat Boston.
The problem with Ottawa is that as soon as any of Spezza/Karlsson/Alfredsson/Anderson go down to injury, any hope they have goes up in smoke with them.
Two of the toughest teams in the league?
Try telling St. Louis, Nashville, and a host of other playoff teams that Ottawa is tougher than they are . . . I don't see them as a tough team match-up at all against Boston.
I think the way Ottawa wins is with their speedy young guys, and a great power play, and a hot goalie that is healthy.
I don't see another team that match-up with Boston's toughness and grit, other than St.Louis (who I hardly ever see).
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
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JOSHUACANADA
PickupHockey Veteran
Canada
2308 Posts |
Posted - 04/05/2012 : 12:57:40
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While I see your point in toughness, Ottawa has gone stretches without 2 or 3 of the players mentioned on your list and still posted a winning record. Karlsson would be the most missed, as Ottawa has surprised most critics with having depth throughout except in defense, especially offensive minded defense. Ben Bishop, Lehner, Auld in the system and have gone long stretches without Anderson. Ottawa has replacement parts for Alfredson and Spezza, although either would be missed. Turris, Foligno, Michalek Gonchar, Philips and a host of players from last years memorial are riding high this season. Not to mention prospect players who are healthy scratches, minors or european league who would find there way onto 50% of teams rosters albeit 3rd-4th lines who can be called in if needed.
quote:
Originally posted by Guest5091
I voted pitt/philly, but I think Ott/Bos comes in second.
These are two of the toughest teams in the league and even though Ottawa is the underdog, they're a real wildcard. They could flame out in 4 just as much as they could beat Boston.
The problem with Ottawa is that as soon as any of Spezza/Karlsson/Alfredsson/Anderson go down to injury, any hope they have goes up in smoke with them.
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Guest8828
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Posted - 04/05/2012 : 14:24:17
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quote:
Originally posted by JOSHUACANADA
While I see your point in toughness, Ottawa has gone stretches without 2 or 3 of the players mentioned on your list and still posted a winning record. Karlsson would be the most missed, as Ottawa has surprised most critics with having depth throughout except in defense, especially offensive minded defense. Ben Bishop, Lehner, Auld in the system and have gone long stretches without Anderson. Ottawa has replacement parts for Alfredson and Spezza, although either would be missed. Turris, Foligno, Michalek Gonchar, Philips and a host of players from last years memorial are riding high this season. Not to mention prospect players who are healthy scratches, minors or european league who would find there way onto 50% of teams rosters albeit 3rd-4th lines who can be called in if needed.
quote:
Originally posted by Guest5091
I voted pitt/philly, but I think Ott/Bos comes in second.
These are two of the toughest teams in the league and even though Ottawa is the underdog, they're a real wildcard. They could flame out in 4 just as much as they could beat Boston.
The problem with Ottawa is that as soon as any of Spezza/Karlsson/Alfredsson/Anderson go down to injury, any hope they have goes up in smoke with them.
There is no way Ottawa can beat Boston with "prospect players who are healthy scratches, minors or european league". And there is a very big difference between going on a stretch in the regular season without some key players and facing Boston every night while missing those same key players.
If Ottawa stands a chance at beating the defending champs, they will need a full roster, hot goaltending and maybe even some help from the hockey gods.
Im not a Sens hater just being realistic on their chances against those boy from bean town. |
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Clatts
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
266 Posts |
Posted - 04/05/2012 : 14:25:09
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8828 was me
"Most of the guys that wear them are Europeans and French Guys."
Don Cherry on Visors |
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JOSHUACANADA
PickupHockey Veteran
Canada
2308 Posts |
Posted - 04/05/2012 : 16:07:35
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| I give them the same chance of beating Boston I gave them at the beginning of the season to make the playoffs. Either way loven the fact I got at least 4 more games to watch my team and I have hope for more. |
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Guest9558
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Posted - 04/06/2012 : 21:02:58
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quote:
Originally posted by Guest8828
There is no way Ottawa can beat Boston with "prospect players who are healthy scratches, minors or european league". And there is a very big difference between going on a stretch in the regular season without some key players and facing Boston every night while missing those same key players.
If Ottawa stands a chance at beating the defending champs, they will need a full roster, hot goaltending and maybe even some help from the hockey gods.
Im not a Sens hater just being realistic on their chances against those boy from bean town.
Agreed that their chances are low, but not impossible. The Sens have proven the "experts" wrong all season.
Of coarse, at this point, a Sens/Bruins series doesn't look as probable if the Cap's keep winning. |
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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
Posted - 04/07/2012 : 04:14:23
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quote:
Originally posted by JOSHUACANADA
I give them the same chance of beating Boston I gave them at the beginning of the season to make the playoffs. Either way loven the fact I got at least 4 more games to watch my team and I have hope for more.
Hey, I'll agree with you there, and clearly, they proved everyone wrong already once. Could happen again, sure. I certainly get the enthusiasm too - at times, Ottawa has looked very, very good.
But it remains to be seen what kind of team they are in the playoffs. It helps that Spezz and Alfredsson are tested playoff warriors; but they'll need a lot more than that.
To tell you the truth, among eastern match-ups, I'd still put Bos/Ott as #3 for me t watch, as I think the NYRangers vs the Caps could be a great series, and certainly a tough out for New York. Pens/Pitts would be #1, and the "boring series" just might be the Flo/NJ one if the Caps don't pass Florida on the final day.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
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sahis34
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
591 Posts |
Posted - 04/07/2012 : 11:06:46
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quote:
Originally posted by Beans15
I think anyone who watched the game on Sunday would likely say the Pitt/Philly match up is primed to be a hard fought battle. Crosby is back but Philly has beaten Pitt in 4 if 5 match ups.
The only other match ups I want to see this year would be Van/Chi and a Cup finals rematch of Bos/Van.
Why would you want to see a cup final rematch? It's boring. |
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nuxfan
PickupHockey All-Star
3670 Posts |
Posted - 04/07/2012 : 12:10:02
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quote:
Which potential/confirmed 1st round playoff match-up looks to be the most exciting and compelling?
The one that involves the team you cheer for  |
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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
Posted - 04/07/2012 : 15:22:38
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Washington is now in an unusual position, depending on whether they win, and whether Florida wins:
1) they could finish in 8th by losing (would play the NY Rangers)
2) they could finish in 7th by winning, and if Florida wins or gets to OT (they play Boston)
3) they could finish 3rd by winning, and if Florida loses (they would play NJ Devils, with home ice advantage)
Clearly, they'd love to win out, and have a chance at playing the Devils on home ice; but a curious stat has them 3-1 against the Bruins, with 2 of those wins in Boston. On the other hand, they are 1-3 against New Jersey, and obviously the Rangers look very strong.
If Washington does end up playing Boston . . . that might be my upset pick of the East - only if Neuvirth is ok, though.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
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Must-See Playoff Match-Ups! 
