In part 4, I discussed the predators vs Coyotes series, with the poll voting, the Predators move past the qualifying round.
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Today, I will be focusing on the match up between the Islanders and the Panthers
Forwards:
Islanders: They have a clear cut 1C in Barzal, who has the ability to take over a shortened series like this. Backing him up they have great underrated players like Brock Nelson, Anders Lee, and Beauviller. JG Pageau could also prove to be a very nice pick up for the Islanders here. I would say overall, they have a deep forward core, maybe missing one more star or two.
Panthers: Huberdeau was clearly the best forward on the Panthers this year, Barkov had a disappointing season, but this rest could prove to have done him well. They have power play specialist Mike Hoffman, and a solid veteran Dadonov to complement.
Advantage: Islanders. I really like their depth overall up front and think that most of their forwards are very responsible under the Trotz system.
Defence:
Islanders: VERY UNDERRATED. Pulock is a certified #1 RHD in my mind, with Devon Toews also being a very good top 4 Dman. Players like Scott Mayfield and Pelech make this D-core very strong overall.
Panthers: Overall, the Panthers blue line was carried by Ekblad and surprising Mackenzie Weager. Yandle isn't much more than a power play specialist at this point and their defence really falls off.
Advantage: Islanders by far. Very good two-way play from their players.
Goalies: Islanders: Whether they decide to go Greiss or Varlomov, those are two decent options. It will be interesting to see what they do.
Panthers: Bobrovsky was straight up terrible this season. That contract isn't looking that hot.
Advantage: Islanders. Unless the Bob from 3 years ago show up I can't put him above the tandem of the Islanders.
My consensus. I actually think this is going to be on of the most lopsided series. The Islanders are very good defensively where Florida isn't so hot. If Barzal especially can play well, this series is over quick. I am actually predicting a 3 game sweep for the Islanders.
Players to watch are listed below.
Vote using the poll, everyone has 2 hours, and the winner will move on!
Islanders have the edge on forwards? They play a very defensive system and have a pretty weak offense (2.78GF/GP - 22nd in the league) while FLA is the exact opposite (3.30GF/GP - 6th in the league). Not sure how you justify NYI forwards over FLA forwards but I do agree NYI has the edge on D and in net
Islanders have the edge on forwards? They play a very defensive system and have a pretty weak offense (2.78GF/GP - 22nd in the league) while FLA is the exact opposite (3.30GF/GP - 6th in the league). Not sure how you justify NYI forwards over FLA forwards but I do agree NYI has the edge on D and in net
I factored in their play overall. Islanders forwards are also tough to go against as they are solid defensively while the Panthers lack in that regard. Also, I like players like Barzal and Beauviller to break out more in a shortened series.
Teemu_salami a aimé ceci.
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