The first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs was breathtaking, but the second round promises to deliver even more exhilarating action. With games about to commence, here are the five most noteworthy storylines for the second round:
1. McDavid vs. Eichel
Eight years in the making, the much-awaited face-off between Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid, the number one pick of the 2015 NHL Draft, and Vegas Golden Knights’ Jack Eichel, the number two pick (by the Buffalo Sabres), in the Stanley Cup Playoffs is finally here. Both players have shown extraordinary skills that make them a force to reckon with. Game 1 will happen on Wednesday at T-Mobile Arena.
2. Year of the rat?
Despite the lack of rodents hurled during the Florida Panthers and Boston Bruins’ contest, the Panthers could earn their stripes and maintain their playoff roll, which they had in the 1996 postseason, where they made the Stanley Cup Final with rats as their official mascot. The Leafs provided some challenge in the last round defeating the Lightning in six games, with Game 1 scheduled to take place on Tuesday at Scotiabank Arena.
3. Hello again
Former Carolina Hurricanes player Dougie Hamilton will have the chance to meet his old team as the New Jersey Devils play the Hurricanes. Hamilton has been solid for the Devils in this postseason and now has the opportunity to contribute to their elimination.
4. Release the Kraken
After placing 30th in their inaugural season, the Seattle Kraken qualified and took down the Stanley Cup champion Colorado Avalanche in seven games, an impressive feat. However, they face a tough task against the Dallas Stars, who eliminated the Minnesota Wild in six games. Game 1 is on Tuesday at American Airlines Center.
5. Home not so sweet
Home ice may not be much of an advantage in this year’s playoffs as road teams are 31-18, an NHL record for road wins in any round. Will teams be able to use their home-ice advantage in the second round? Let’s find out.
