Polemic Hockey

Every year, games 1 and 2 completely change the goalposts. Before the playoffs started we expected to see total domination by the Sharks and Capitals. After game 1, and well into game 2 in each series, we wondered if the #8 seed was going to run away with it. Then, the #1 team wins game 2 and it seems to change everything.

Let's just remember that even a win in 6 was lower than our original expectations for both of these teams. The usual source of playoff underachievement in the face of such predictions is goaltending. It has been not good enough for both teams. Both could win their series in 5 games yet, though I doubt that will happen. If they do, they will have to contend with teams in the next round where this lack of goaltending, unless it gets better, could be a critical difference.

Let's just say I'm from Missouri City, Missouri and I need to be shown more than once. Winning "an upset" in game 2 is not going to convince me that either of these teams will make it into the finals.