After a crazy Game Seven between the Devils and Hurricanes (where the 'Canes tied it up and then took the lead all in the final minute of the game), the Bruins finally know who their next opponent will be in the Playoffs: the former Hartford Whalers.
The Hurricanes are a fun team to watch - they've got speed and some big centres, and obviously benefit from some superb goaltending from Cam Ward. Plus, I dig their sweaters.
However, when it looked like the Devils would win last night's game, and the Caps had already eliminated the Rangers, and the Bruins were slotted to play the Penguins, I must admit that I felt unease about going up against a fairly refreshed Crosby-Malkin-Fleury team.
But good old winningest-goalie-of-all-time Martin Brodeur never lets me down and one lucky shot from Eric Staal has brought the Bruins a more beneficial match up in those bastards out of Carolina.
The B's record against the 'Canes this season is solid (4-0), but Cam Ward only really warmed up in the second half of the season, and Rod Brind'amour has finally begun asserting some authority after a really disappointing season. So I think the Bruins will face a very different Hurricanes club than what they played during the regular season.
Also too, the Hurricanes must feel pretty confident after fighting their way to eliminating the Devils and will roll on with the knowledge that they can defeat stronger teams, even in the dying moments.
The second round begins Friday. Should be a good series!
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