» Wed Oct 20, 2010 2:15 pm
I think that if the Bruins had more than 5 powerplay goals in the entire playoffs (2 of those coming on 5 on 3s mind you) the Bruins would not be such underdogs. But they are awful on the powerplay, and that is going to cost them, especially against Luongo. However, what they do have working for them, as Guy Boucher said after game 7, great depth. 4 good (not great) lines that have very solid two-way skills. And I'm loving how great the Chara-Seidenberg defensive pair has been working these playoffs. For the most part, they eliminated Lacavalier in that series, and I'm hopeful that they can do the same to either the Sedin twins or Kessler in the Cup Final.
And if they can do that, I don't see any reason why the Bruins can't win this series. Thomas can outplay Luongo, although its a good matchup, the Bruins have a great defense, and a balanced offense. Everyone picked the Flyers to win, and everyone also picked the Lightning to upset the Bruins, and Boston just showed too much depth, balance, and resilience to let that happen.
Both teams are going to be really excited to be there, duh, but considering the novelty to both teams, I feel that they're going to be extra excited, (as opposed to the coolness of say, Detroit), which might make for a really open series, which I'm not sure the Bruins could win. Anyway, should be fun to watch.
Knocking on wood...Bruins in 7.