Going into Sunday night's games, there are matchups to be decided.
The Islanders host the Flyers in what is a meaningless game for Philadelphia, who clinched the 2nd wild card spot Saturday.
However, this game remains important for New York. A win means they go up against one of the hottest teams in the league in Pittsburgh, with the Rangers matched up with Florida. One point or a loss means the Islanders will face the Panthers.
Look around social media and you will see gaggles of NY fans of either team wanting to play the Panthers first and either directly or indirectly disrespecting the Cats. While many of the players on the Panthers roster will be playing in the playoffs for the first time, there are also several savvy veterans whose names are already on the Cup.
While the regular season can be long and grueling, it is also just an appetizer for the greatest postseason in all of sports. You can't blame the NY teams for wanting the least experienced team in the first round. But to discount what Florida brings to the table is also grossly shortsighted.
Considering the Panthers have improved 37 POINTS in the standings over the last two seasons, what they are doing is no fluke.
Through solid drafting and brilliant trades GM Dale Tallon has built exactly what he promised 5-6 years ago. Finally and mercifully Panther fans are seeing the fruits of his labor, as well as that of the solid ownership group lead by Vinny Viola and Doug Cifu.
But who do the Panthers want to play? Islanders or Rangers? Does it matter?
Not really.
Does a matchup against a banged up Rangers team with a shaky defense but one of the best playoff goaltenders sound appealing? Not really.
The Islanders bring a potentially more potent offense than the Rangers, but also have backup Thomas Greiss in net. Does this sound better for Florida? Barely.
There is no doubt the playoffs are tough for everyone. Every matchup could go either way. The parity in the NHL is great and terrifying all at the same time.
Get out of the first round and it becomes exponentially tougher. There is no way to predict the lucky bounces, injuries, and hot goaltending that will define the 8 first round series.
Most will say the Islanders are the desired matchup for Florida. Based on goaltending between the two New York teams, that is understandable. But it really doesn't matter.
If the Panthers play their game for 60 minutes, they will be a tough out for anyone. If they get and stay healthy, they will be a tough out for anyone. Because of the makeup of their team, those are big ifs. But regardless of experience, Florida is a dangerous team.
Could they lose in the first round? Of course. Could they make it to the Stanley Cup Finals? Absolutely. The playoffs are wide open. Mission accomplished on getting there. Next step is seeing how this young and old squad comes together when the pressure is at it's highest.
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