The third round began in the (mid?) west yesterday. So let's get to it!
Game 1: Los Angeles vs. Chicago.
The conference final got off to a roaring start, though the result and the way it got there might be a bit unexpected.
Before the series started, I thought it could turn on the battle between Jonathan Quick and Corey Crawford. I think the best of those two will see their team to victory.
Since it was 3-1 and no empty-netters were scored, it's obvious that Crawford got the better of the first matchup.
Of course, the Kings didn't make it easy on Crawford. In the second period alone, Crawford faced 17 shots. He stopped 16 of them.
Duncan Keith scored in the second period as well. That goal gave the Blackhawks a lead they did not relinquish.
Part of the problem for the Kings in the third period was that they didn't generate many good chances. They only had four shots on goal and failed to make anything of the power play that they started the period with or the one they got about three minutes in.
Tyler Toffoli, who scored in the second, had an excellent chance on a breakaway, but the puck went off the post. And that was that, pretty much.
Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews received a pass from Johnny Oduya late in the third and put it home for the 3-1 lead. It was a masterful play led by Hossa, who streaked toward the left circle before dropping the puck to Oduya, who made an excellent pass.
I fully expect Quick and the Kings' defense to be tougher next time out. That said, it's not like the Blackhawks had it too easy; shots on goal and good chances weren't exactly easy to come by. It was a breakdown in Chicago's end that allowed the third goal.
At any rate, both teams now get a couple of days off. Adjustments are sure to be made.
Chicago leads 1-0. Game 2 is Wednesday.
Later today, Game 2 in Montreal. Should be tougher this time out, right?
Either that, or the Rangers will put up 9.
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