I have to be honest, I'm having a hard time getting fired up for round two. I think it's mostly due to the fact that I have a shitload of real life stuff going on at the moment, although I suspect the prospect have having to listen to this moron drop names for the next seven games might have something to do with it as well. I can't even find the energy to rebut this fine piece of writing. I have to say, I think it's T-rific that this guy has been able to find his post-career calling as a hockey blogger. (Seriously, it's an inspired article and I never get tired of that Ricci to Garcia banner. It's too bad Bill has such shitty taste in hockey teams).
Here's what I think about round two:
I think it's unfortunate that Hasek laid an egg too early. Chris Osgood is the better goalie, and it's too bad that Hasek's choke job against the Predators forced Mike Babcock to go with Osgood. I would have much preferred to go against Mr Stick-Throwing Gimpy Groin. Oh well.
I think Datsyuk and Zetterberg will be tougher for Foote to shut down than Gaborik and Demitra. Gaborik had a little success when he shifted from moving forward to moving left to right, and I think he would have had more success if he'd kept up with that (remember Sauer getting that holding penalty when he got caught flat-footed with Gaborik racing down the right wing).
I think Valtteri Filppula needs to pick a hair color to match his eyebrows. I don't need to be wondering if the curtains match the drapes when I'm watching hockey.
I think I'd rather have Jeff Finger in the lineup over Jordan Leopold. Nothing against Leopold, I just think Finger is a little steadier and tougher, and I think those qualities will be more critical than Leopold's puck movement.
I think I had no idea Dallas Drake was still playing hockey. Oh wait, just glancing at his stats I think Drake retired two years ago, but just hasn't bothered to tell anyone.
I think I'm going to get really tired of hearing that Tomas Holmstrom and Ryan Smyth are the best in the business at working in front of the net. Someone needs to tell the suits that nobody gives a fuck the NHL and the only people watching are already well aware that Holmstrom and Smyth like to work in the crease. This isn't curling - we don't need the talking points spelled out to us.
I think Paul Stastny is due. Overdue.
Beyond everything else, I think this is going to be a hell of a series. Two good goaltenders, two deep forward units and some terrific players on the blueline. The Avalanche powerplay stunk during the regular season, but has improved substantially since the deadline. I think the Avs will need to play almost perfect hockey to advance.
I have faith, though. I think they will win in 7.