The Chicago Blackhawks have lost the Stanley Cup Finals! Zero games played, no shots taken, and no parade through Boston has happened. Still, the Blackhawks have no chance to beat Boston.
Chicago hockey fans have been blessed with a talented team that won the President’s trophy, set the record for consecutive games without a regulation loss to start a season, and came back from a 3-1 series deficit to beat the rival Detroit Red Wings. All of this happened in less than six months, making the shortened 2013 season special. A second Cup in four years may be expected, and should as it is the ultimate goal.
That being said, it is time to fold up the tents and head home because Boston swept the vaunted Pittsburgh Penguins.
*Face palm*
The same fans praising Boston have clearly forgotten that the Bruins were one minute away from throwing away a 3-1 series lead against Toronto in the first round. That in no way discredits how good Boston has been, but as fans have seen this year and very often in recent postseasons, anything can happen.
Boston is comparable to the LA Kings: big, talented, with very good goaltending, and a good chunk of the team has speed. The Bruins roll out four lines in any situation like the Blackhawks and boast the second best penalty kill in the postseason behind Chicago’s. Boston’s best players have been forwards Nathan Horton, David Krejci, defenseman Zdeno Chara, and goalie Tuukka Rask. The help behind them has also been great, it’s just these players have shone the most.
The Blackhawks are the faster team in this series. Their depth is slightly better, and the team is healthier. As you may know, the Bruins lost Gregory Campbell to a broken leg against the Penguins. His loss will be felt because he played an important role on the penalty kill.
If Chicago fans are packing up the season and writing off what has been a special team, fine. More space for all those that have faith.
The Blackhawks will bring back the cup to the Windy City in seven games.
Follow me on Twitter @jeffrotul44 for more sports and entertainment ramblings. If you play fantasy sports, check out The Fantasy Fix, where my weekly column ‘Peaks and Valleys’ covers your add/drop/watch needs during baseball and hockey season.