Tampa Bay pulled off the impossible last week, defeating the Rangers at MSG in Game 7 – a feat never achieved before. Similarly, Chicago completed a road Game 7 win in Anaheim after being down 3-2 in the series. Bruce Boudreau, head coach of the Ducks, lost another Game 7. At home. That is three consecutive seasons Anaheim’s season ended on home ice in the last possible game of a series. Boudreau is 1-6 in Game 7’s dating back to his days with the Capitals. Ouch.
The two finalists are stacked with talent. This is Chicago’s 3rd SCF appearance in 6 years, with mostly the same core. Meanwhile, this will be the first crack at the Cup for Stamkos & Co. You want to see speed and skill on the ice? Tune in for this series.
As for our Bracket Challenge, two competitors also remain. Thisisbright has lost her lead over the field, and now either Nicky1992 or CbusVerballer will win the (Giant Eagle-themed) Scott Hartnell autographed photo and bragging rights for the next year. Both missed two opening round matchups, but have been perfect since then. If the Bolts win, Mike will take home the writer’s championship.
The Stanley Cup Final starts Wednesday June 3rd in Tampa Bay. A former Jacket will be hoisting the Cup – either Anton Stralman with the Bolts or Antoine Vermette with the Hawks.