In appreciation of a hard fought Western Conference Finals series, I'm trying something a little different today.
A Ducks Loss
Last night's loss at the United Center was upsetting for Ducks fans. After a scoreless first period, the Blackhawks scored three goals in under four minutes midway through the second period to take a commanding lead. Although Anaheim scored twice to bring the score to 3-2, they were never really in it. Something felt for lack of a better word, “off.… Maybe it was that Chicago was more “on… than the Ducks all night.
The Western Conference Stanley Cup finalist will be determined Saturday night in Anaheim. Emotions will be at a fever pitch and as they say “ the joint will be a rockin…
A Win for Hockey
This series has been one of the absolute gems in recent memory. Those of us who love the game have relished just how much fun it is to watch. For readers who don't go to the message boards, there has been lots of trash talk between fans of the Ducks and Blackhawks. Its because passions run high and much is at stake. What has somewhat united the two sides is the spectacle witnessed over the last 11 days. Great playoff hockey. Here is a sample of what people are saying (team allegiance in parenthesis):
This team is just crazy. Just when you think they're done, they're not. - Duckscup07 (Ducks)
This series is too good to end tonight. Can you guys play a best of 11? No matter how much I dislike the teams and players involved. It's just too damn entertaining not to watch. - Itsjusttrash (Canucks)
This is some of the most fun hockey I have watched. - Beingaflamesfan (Flames)
I'd like to take a second to recognize that I completely underestimated the talent of the Ducks. I didn't think the Hawks would roll them, I had Hawks in 6, and the series isn't over, but this has been on helluva series and regardless of the outcome, one of the best series I've seen in a long time. - Hossa1881 (Blackhawks)
The Ducks are a great hockey team, and this has been a great series. I think the Ducks have played a very smart, driven game to counter what the Blackhawks bring to the table. It's been great hockey, a pleasure to watch. Now we get one more game to find out! - DirkGraham (Blackhawks)
The point is hockey fans appreciate what both teams have shown so far. They are excited about what might happen Saturday night.
I'll be back Saturday with a preview of game seven.
-Ed