Quote:
Originally Posted by Captn Sacto
I don't think it really matters who they play. Every team in the west is pretty darn good and would be a tough match-up. The only team I think they have a real advantage on is the coyotes. They have won every game easily, scoring at least 4 goals and have beaten them 7 straight times. The playoffs are whole different ballgame as shark fans know well.
I think the most encouraging thing is that the sharks have always gotten off to great starts and were playing medicore at best when the playoffs started. This year they are playing their best hockey now. Nabakov was a solid goaltender, but rarely ever stole a game while the sharks would lose games where they put 40-50 shots on goal. Niemi has won more games this year where the sharks have been outplayed than Nabby ever did. I thinks this much more important during the playoffs where one or two games can be the difference.
Will see, some good teams are going to be out in the first round out west.
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That's pretty much exactly how I feel. I always worry about Detroit. Vancouver is pretty clearly the class of the league this year. Otherwise, I don't really care who we face in the first two rounds. 3-10 are all just as dangerous.
Our PK is pretty weak recently, and we've got a couple of injuries with a few players still slumping offensively (I'm looking at you, Heatley), but as you said Niemi is on fire. Stellar goaltending is what it takes in the playoffs (and stay healthy).
If we beat Dallas tonight, we'll clinch a spot in the playoffs and pretty much finish their playoff chances. Then two each against the Ducks and Phoenix, with one Kings game. One game at a time.
Good luck to everyone (unless you're playing the Sharks!)