Stanley Cup Playoffs: One reason why each team can win it all
By Jasmine Yen
Western Conference
Dallas Stars
Reason: Defense wins championships
The Dallas Stars are known for their defensive style of hockey and their defense has been the driver of this team for the whole season. However, they have been getting some pretty strong offensive production in the playoffs and that’s what makes this team so dangerous.
In the series against the Calgary Flames, they score 5+ goals three times, including seven unanswered goals in the series-clinching game. The combination of offense and defense leaves very little weakness and is why this team can go all the way.
Colorado Avalanche
Reason: Game breakers
Nathan MacKinnon is the best player left in the playoffs and he has the ability to completely change a series. What makes the Colorado Avalanche so dangerous is that they have players that can take over a game.
Other than MacKinnon, they also have Nazem Kadri, Gabriel Landeskog, and Mikko Rantanen who are all capable of putting this team on their back. In a very close and hard-fought series, game-breakers will be key in breaking the tie and the Avalanche have a ton of them.
Vancouver Canucks
Reason: Nothing to lose
No one expected the Vancouver Canucks to be the last Canadian team standing in the postseason and yet, here they are. This young team has been a treat to watch and seem to be enjoying every second of it.
The Canucks have nothing to lose this year and that’s their biggest advantage. Their window has just started to open up and they’ve managed to fully take advantage of it. A team that has no pressure is extremely dangerous and Vancouver is just having fun and seeing how long they can make this magic last.
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Vegas Golden Knights
Reason: A complete team
This team is arguably the most complete team left in the playoffs. They have depth in each position, play a strong two-way game, and are a very adaptable team thanks to their versatile players. This is a group of hardened veterans that know what it takes to win and have been all business in this year’s playoffs, wasting no time eliminating their opponents. If this team doesn’t make the Finals, it will be a surprise to everyone.