As the NHL conference semi-finals near their end, Thursday night provides 3 pivotal matchups. As the lower seed in each of these situations attempts to gain leverage in their respective series, here’s my take on the outcomes.
Boston Bruins @ New York Rangers (3-0)
- the Rangers barely yielded Game 3, but should respectfully grab Game 4 at MSG before bowing out
- Boston is no stranger to losing large series leads, so don’t expect a lackadaisical from the upstart Bruins
- the key for New York is Henrik Lundqvist, who has played tremendously (35 saves per game this series), but has not gotten goal support from his skaters
Chicago Blackhawks @ Detroit Red Wings (1-2)
- the Red Wings have a huge chance to take full control of this series in Motor City, but expect the President’s Trophy winners to shift the series back their way
- the Blackhawks must overcome Detroit’s staunch defensive unit, and Corey Crawford will need to out-duel opposing netminder Jimmy Howard
- Jonathan Toews has produce more proficiently than his mere 1 point in this series
San Jose Sharks @ Los Angeles (2-2)
- the Kings should begin to pull away in this all-Californian series, starting with a Game 5 victory in LA
- 2012 Conn Smythe winner Jonathon Quick has played brilliantly this entire series, and his performance will once again be paramount to the Kings’ success
- the Kings will have to supply their goalie with formidable goal support, as they have just scored 2 goals in the last two games
Agadjanian Sports 