In the NHL's version of time travel, tonight we get to witness the beginning of the second round of the playoffs followed by the end of the first round...Mind blown yet?
On NYI @ Tampa
The Islanders get to continue their Spring Break in Florida, this time on the Gulf instead of off the ocean...and this time with a much different team.
The Lightning bring a much more playoff experienced group with them, as well as perhaps the most underrated goalie in the NHL in Ben Bishop...Bishop showed in round 1 how dominant he could be, following a huge season, which followed one of the best playoffs a goalie has had in a long time...
Stralman is getting close to returning, and while Stamkos is skating again it appears he is a still a long shot to return anytime this series and maybe even next series...As he told his teammates two weeks ago, "See you in the Finals."
John Tavares has lived up to all his billing and then some so far in these playoffs and that will have to continue if the Isles are to have a shot at reaching the Conference Finals...
Greiss was outstanding against Florida, but Tampa boasts many more weapons and have their experience working for them...
In the end I have to go with Tampa in 6
Your Pick?
On Nashville and Anaheim...Game 7
My initial pick was Nashville in 7, and I am sticking with it even though at times the Ducks can look better than any team still playing...
We will discuss all this and more on today's buzzcast @1
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