Stanley Cup Playoff Takeaways: Round 1

Photo by Maddie Meyer from Getty Images

I say this often, and I know it gets push back, but the NHL playoff format always leads to some awesome matchups in round 2.

This year is no different.

Let’s discuss how we got here.

Stars defeat Golden Knights 4-3

The Stars got through round 1 despite a huge lack of production from Roope Hintz and Joe Pavelski.

That’s a good sign overall, but also a huge concern.

If the Stars don’t get more production from them, they aren’t long for these playoffs.

Jake Oettinger isn’t going to hold teams to 2 goals or less for five straight games all postseason.

Avalanche defeat Jets 4-1

The Jets had an incredible season due in large part to how excellent goalie Connor Hellebuyck was in the season.

It was a big concern of mine going into the playoffs, because what happens when Hellebuyck doesn’t stand on his head?

Well, we found out.

It’s 4 losses in 5 games and a quick exit out of the playoffs.

You play with fire, you eventually get burned.

Canucks defeat Predators 4-2

The Predators had an excellent back half of the season which surprisingly got them into the playoffs. It was a great season overall.

But the lack of offense bit them in the butt, as the Preds struggled to score against any of the three goaltenders the Canucks used this series.

Oilers defeat Kings 4-1

After the first two games, it looked like the same ole Oilers.

Great goal scoring, but leaky defense that costs them in the long run.

And then, out of the blue, the defense tightened up, and Stuart Skinner started making some clutch saves and shutting the door.

If he keeps that up, the Oilers are legitimate contenders.

Panthers defeat Lightning 4-1

The Panthers are the team of now, with two excellent regular seasons and a Stanley Cup run in the one “mediocre” one.

While they’ve been on the up and up, the Lightning have started to falter more and more.

The Lightning are a team of the past.

But hey, two Stanley Cups and three finals appearances are a hell of a run.

Ain’t nothing wrong with the window closing.

Bruins defeat Maple Leafs 4-3

The Leafs were outgunned and outmanned.

And then, with no Auston Matthews and a goalie change, they switched things up.

Staunch defense. Block every single shot imaginable. Score on the small opportunities you get.

They did the exact same thing in game 7 of the series, which lead to a 1-0 lead in the final 10 minutes of the game.

And then, as if the curse just decided to spark right then and there, a great shot block attempt is missed, the Bruins tie the game, and go onto win in overtime.

The Leafs don’t need a new coach, new general manager, or new roster.

They need an exorcist.

Rangers defeat Capitals 4-0

There isn’t a whole lot to say on this series.

The Rangers are really good, and the Caps overperformed to get there.

Super duper quick series.

Hurricanes defeat Islanders 4-1

The Islanders lived the same fate as the Predators.

Great goaltending with a lack of scoring, but got hot at the right time to make the playoffs.

But when that goes cold, they don’t have a chance.