The second round is almost at hand.
The Devils proved that they are a cup contender by defeating the Lightning 4 games to 2 in round 1. But do the Devils have what it takes to beat the Senators?
It would be hard for me to believe that we have seen the "best" the Senators can play -- well maybe we saw it in the first period of game 1 against the Penguins --but after that, the Senators (aside from a small hiccup in game 2) seemed to be on cruise control.
But maybe that's what being a good team in the playoffs looks like?
The Devils, on the other hand, never seem to get the respect they deserve. Here's a team that has won 3 cups in the last 11 years and lost a fourth. A team that has been the model of consistency for that time as well. The never they seem to have enough to win, on paper, but always seem to have it on the ice.
One thing seems sure, both teams will face a tougher opponent in round 2.
So who will win this series?
I have my thoughts, but I'd like to hear yours...so let the debate begin.
My only request -- that you try and provide some valid reasons why one team, or the other, will win.
What do you think?
Sens in six, Emery matches Brodeur, Phillips/Volchenkov crush the EGG, Sens are just too deep, and Alfie's on a mission.
Emery matches Brodeur??? Ahahahaha! Nice try but not even close! Parise has been able to pick it up when the EGG line has been quiet. It's not like the EGG line has been silent either. Elias has been quieter than I would like but Gionta is doing his thing and Gomez has been adding up the assists (not to mention the OT winner). The Sens have depth, I'm not arguing that but don't be so quick to underestimate the lesser know Devils that can score. We're not Jacque Lemaire's Devils anymore, we can score.
I know the Devils can score now. But the Sens' forwards are deeper and their D is a lot tougher than what NJ faced in Round 1. I'm not saying Emery is as good a goalie as Brodeur, but you better believe he will be up for this series and he will not lose it for them. Emery is vastly underrated. I stand by my prediction until proven wrong.