WOW! Is ANYBODY other than Chicago a straight-up powerhouse this post-season??????
Well, since Chicago is tied at 1-1 in their series with Detroit, they may not be the powerhouse of the West. To be honest, I think more people would concede that Chicago will face Pittsburgh for the Stanley Cup. However, in this age of parity there are no dominants teams in the league come playoff time; there is very little separation from top-to-bottom, 1 through 8.
Chicago is talented and deep. While Detroit may be in a retooling phase, their team of younger players are peaking - started in mid-April. Additionally, the Wings are tied in their series with Chicago, they have played them tough all season (despite the SO losses in regular season), and they know the team very well. Although unlikely, don't count out the Red Wings from this series.
Pittsburgh is playing well and should/could be up 3-0 in their series with Ottawa. They appear to have the inside track to winning the Eastern Division. Conversely, Boston just keeps winning. I don't think their team is that good...but they're playing with confidence and that may be enough. Elsewhere, the Kings look pretty darn good too. They play the kind of physical hard-hitting game that could drive Chicago nuts if they can get past San Jose. Also, San Jose can win it all...if they can work past their demons.
Botton line: I don't think we'll see (m)any powerhouse teams in the NHL, and everyone from 1-8 has a legitimate opportunity when it comes to the playoffs.
