Stanley Cup Playoffs roundtable: First round predictions
Here are our staff predictions for the first-round series of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
On August 11, an unprecedented Stanley Cup Playoffs will officially begin. The field of 24 teams has been whittled down to 16 teams. With the play-in round already over, the real NHL postseason can begin.
Here are our staff predictions for each of the first round series.
(8) Montreal Canadiens vs (1) Philadelphia Flyers
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Michael Dotson: We all know Carey Price can steal a series. Can he do it again? The Flyers just outscored the best 3 teams in the Eastern Conference 11-3 but could be missing Voracek one of their leading scorers to start the series.
Both teams were out of the playoffs in 2019 so this is uncharted playoff territory for both teams. The Canadians need to win one or both games to start the series to have a shot. They also need to slow this Flyers team down and finish checks. Eventually, though, the Canadians will run out of gas with Price.
Dave Stevenson: I think Montreal presents an interesting challenge for the Flyers. Both teams rely on puck possession and the Habs showed how dangerous they can be against the Penguins. But the Flyers are going to win this series in six games.
Jasmine Yen: I love the Flyers this year and they are my favorite to win the Cup. They’re going to make quick work of the Canadiens in 5 games because I believe Carey Price will steal one game.
Brendan Semon: Flyers will advance due to having a significantly better roster that features scoring from all four lines, elite goaltending, and lockdown defense. They’re also the hottest team entering the playoffs
Alex Baumgartner: After knocking off the top seed in the qualifying round, Montreal looks to do the same in round 1 against Philly. Carey Price has been a brick wall so far. Montreal in 5.
Matt McGinnis: The Canadiens will have a great deal of confidence after taking down the Pittsburgh Penguins, but the Flyers sailed through the Eastern Conference round robin games. Philadelphia has been playing at an elite level and will put down a second upset bid by the Habs.