It has been something of a trend over the past handful of years that the conference finals can be the toughest test for an "overperforming" goaltender. (Halak in '10, Khabibulin in '09, Niemi in '11, among others.) In essence, it seems that a goaltender can carry a team into the conference finals, but can have trouble moving them further than that. This is what makes this years Western Conference Final so intriguing. Here we find two teams who would likely not be where they are if not for spectacular goaltending performances. So you can almost guess if the goaltending threats are going to be neutralized equally. I would look for the first of the two goaltenders to show a crack in their armor. We find ourselves with an above average offense in LA going against a very good Phoenix defense standing before a goaltender who has done more than his fair share of game-changing. While Nashville's stagnant offense, as well as off the ice issues managed to produce very few goals, I would expect the likes of Kopitar, Brown and Williams to put up just enough offense to allow the defense of Johnson and Doughty, and Quick's phenomenal goaltending to be enough to withstand the Coyotes. Also, Jeff Carter will most likely have a massive impact on this series. (Yeah, I was kidding about that.)
Brian - LA in 6
David - Phoenix in 7
Josh - LA in 6
Fitz- LA in 6
Chair Force Ramza - LA in 4
Rusty - LA in 6
Fun Facts: While the AHL Western Conference finals is between the 1 and 2 seeds, both teams combining for 3 losses, the NHL Western Conference finals features the 3rd and 8th seeded teams, combining for 4 losses through the early rounds.
The team that has eliminated the Vancouver Canucks from the past 2 playoffs has won the Stanley Cup.
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