
Vegas Golden Knights (2) vs. Minnesota Wild (3)
Minnesota beat Vegas five times during the regular season and so far in the opening round has proved themselves to be a formidable opponent.
Through six games the series is tied and both goaltenders have been up to the task. Marc-Andre Fleury has a SO and a .935 save % compared to Cam Talbot’s 2 SO’s and a .937 save %. Vegas has outshot Minnesota by nearly 50 total shots and holds a14-11 edge in goals but Minnesota has been efficient and balanced, with nine different skaters contributing goals. The power play has been a non-factor for both teams so maybe that will potentially be the difference game 7.
Result: Series tied 3-3
My Bracket: Vegas in 5
Carolina Hurricanes (1) vs. Nashville Predators (4)
Carolina started strong and went up 2-0 before Nashville clawed their way back into the series with back-to-back 2OT wins.
Carolina then prevailed Tuesday and then won against last night. Jordan Staal has been the star for the Hurricanes, registering 4 goals and 5 points, tied for the team scoring lead with Sebastien Aho.
Nashville has been getting solid goaltending from Juuse Saros (.928 save %) but is still being outscored 18-13 and is facing strong net-minding by Alex Nedeljkovic (.927 save %, 1 SO). (All stats prior to last night’s game).
Result: Carolina wins in 6
My Bracket: Carolina in 6