Great stuff, guys
. I love this forum
I'm with Spits, I wouldn't be surprised if this one ends in 5. If this series goes 6 or 7, the clear advantage has to go to the Sens with the depth and younger players. I only see 3 categories that NJ has an edge on Ottawa......#1 PK unit #2 Coach #3 Playoff experience. But if you look at the 3 of the 4 teams left, playoff experience hasn't meant diddly POO, especially for Ana and MINNY
(props again to Minny).
5 on 5, I would say at the beginning of the series will be pretty much even, but as the series goes deeper, the young legs and the speed will win out. The unique thing about this Ottawa squad is that these guys not only generate speed in the neutral zone, but they also know how to stickhandle, which is crucial in breaking the trap. Plus all of Ottawa's D-men are very adept at long clearing passes out of their own zone and with accuracy, another key to breaking the trap. Something Vancouver failed to do, miserably. The checking line has been the most valuable/productive line for NJ all yr long, and we'll most likely see them going up against Havlat and Hossa, but who're gonna stop Ottawa's 2nd and 3rd line??
Ottawa PP vs NJ PK
Edge to NJ with Brodeur as the last line of defense.
NJ PP vs Ott PK
No contest. NJ PP unit is just torturing to watch if you're Devils fans. Philly scored ZERO, NADA PPG's in the last series vs Ott.
Goalie
Slight edge to Brodeur because of his experience and his resume of outstanding playoff play. But on paper, LaLime has faced better opponents and has outperformed Brodeur.
Ottawa also took 3 out of 4 regular season games from NJ, including both games at NJ. In those 4 games, Ott scored 5, 3, 4, 1 goals. Yes, I know the regular season doesn't mean as much, but at least Ott has shown that they CAN break the trap.
HORNS will have a lot more to add later today, and I'm sure he'll be putting up some very convincing arguments. Do these add up to a sure thing?? HELL NO! But at least IMHO, the clear edge is on Ottawa.
Good luck!!!!!!
GO SENS!!!!!!
