Montreal Canadiens: A Surprising First Playoff Round in All Divisions

I think everyone can agree that the Stanley Cup Playoffs have been fun, and especially, surprising so far, and no, I’m not only talking about the Montreal Canadiens.

Although the big majority of the teams have not yet played their fourth game, which will be a lot more meaningful, some series are already not going the way we were expecting, and undoubtedly, the Montreal Canadiens vs. Toronto Maple Leafs’ series is one of them.

North Division

Montreal Canadiens vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

Although they have only played Game 1 of the first round, it has already shocked a lot of people, myself included. Most people were expecting somewhat of a close series between the Canadiens and the Leafs, and although I had predicted the Montreal Canadiens would win Game 1, I was not expecting them to start out as fast and physical as they did. But they came prepared and ready to fight, and everybody loves to see it.

Game 2 will be later tonight, and I’ll be expecting another fast-paced game full of hits. Except, this time, I’m expecting the Leafs to respond and hit back.

Winnipeg Jets vs. Edmonton Oilers

This is definitely one of, if not the most shocking series so far. Who would’ve thought the Jets would be leading this series 2-0? Let me tell you, not me, that’s for sure. Neither Connor McDavid nor Leon Draisaitl has been able to get on the scoreboard in these two games, and usually, when these two guys struggle, it’s not good for the team.

Nobody would have expected the Oilers to go from the team that has the top point-scorer in the league, if not in the world, to only being able to score one goal in two games. For them to have a chance at winning this round, either McDavid and Draisaitl will have to get over whatever it is they’re going through, or their teammates will have to step up.

On the other hand, though, let’s give credit where it’s due, the Jets are obviously doing an amazing job of shutting off the Oilers’ offence, and both the Oilers’ and Jets’ goaltenders have been sensational.

East Division

New York Islanders vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins lead this series 2-1, which is nothing too surprising (yet – because who knows what can happen). The Penguins were ranked first in the East Division, while the Islanders were ranked fourth, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see a good fight coming from the Islanders, though I also wouldn’t be shocked if the Penguins won the next two games.

Boston Bruins vs. Washington Capitals

This definitely has been one of the most shocking, and disappointing series so far, but we can’t just blame the Capitals. Not only are the Bruins leading 3-1, but they’re also playing extremely well, with everyone contributing, including Brad Marchand who scored three goals in these four games.

However, with the Capitals ranked in the top three for most of the second half of the season, I think it’s fair to say no one was expecting them to be down 3-1. Although it’s worth noting that three of the four games played went to overtime, I was expecting the lead to be as close as those games were.

Central Division

Nashville Predators vs. Carolina Hurricanes

This is also one of the series that isn’t as striking as others like Winnipeg-Edmonton or Boston-Washington. The Hurricanes were first in the division for a long time while the Predators barely made it into the Playoffs. The Hurricanes now lead 2-1, which was to be expected. Now, if the Predators were to tie the series 2-2, that would be surprising, at least, in my opinion.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Florida Panthers

The Lightning leads this series 2-1 and it has been extremely close, intense, and of course, entertaining to watch. Many hockey fans are happy to finally see the Battle of Florida, with reason. Their quick-paced games really bring the experience of watching hockey to another level, and I’m expecting the winner of the series to make Round 2 of the playoffs that much more exciting.

West Division

St. Louis Blues vs. Colorado Avalanche

The Avalanche has been phenomenal all year long, so it’s nothing out of the usual for them to be leading 3-0. This is the only series that could end in four games if Colorado manages to win Game four and sweep the Blues. The Avalanche is definitely one of the most dangerous teams this season and whoever they end up facing in the second round will have to step up their game to have a chance against them. And yes, I did just predict they are winning the series, but does anyone really think the Blues have a chance of making it to Round 2?

Minnesota Wild vs. Vegas Golden Knights

The Golden Knights lead the series 2-1, and it looks like it will be a very close series. Game 1 went to overtime with a score of 0-0, with ultimately the Wild winning it. Then Vegas won games 2 and 3. But it has been another series with big saves from both goaltenders. I wouldn’t be surprised if this series went to seven games, as both teams are showing extreme levels of grit. But, ultimately, I am expecting the Golden Knights to win it.

There are four games today, including the Montreal Canadiens playing Game 2 of the series against the Leafs. All these games could mean a lot, either giving some teams a bigger lead or allowing the opposing teams to tie the series.