Lightning vs Blackhawks – A Tale of the Tape

We’ve got a great Finals matchup with the Lightning vs Blackhawks.

And even on paper, this a tough one to predict.  Let’s look at a few factors.

Toughness

Both teams had to win Game 7 of the conference finals on the road.  That is no easy feat.  Chicago was even staring at a 3-2 deficit and had to win their final two, while being physically beat up by the Ducks.  Tampa is no slouch either with 6 or 7 game series in each round.  Call this a tie.

Speed

Both teams feature a number of scoring threats.  For Chicago, the rely on Toews, Kane and Saad to move the puck quickly.  Tampa counters with Stamkos and the Triplet line.  Another tossup here.

Balanced Scoring

Tampa has relied on their top two lines who scored 21 of 22 goals against New York.  They are going to need more balanced scoring to defeat the Blackhawks.  On the other hand, Chicago has a much more balanced attack, with 13 players scoring 5 points or more during the playoffs.  Tampa only has 9 players with 5 points or more, even having played 3 more games.  Advantage Chicago.

Goaltending

It has been a crazy series for both Ben Bishop and Corey Crawford.  Bishop’s last five games against the Rangers were either shutouts or 5 goal debacles.  Crawford was pulled for 5 games, including 4 starts, early in the playoffs but has rebounded well.  Call this one another tie.

Intangibles

Tampa is the only team in history to have played 4 Original Six teams including Chicago.  They have made it past three.  Can they make it to four?  That would be a sweet road to the Cup.  Advantage Tampa.

Experience

I believe this will be the key to the series.  Chicago is looking for their third Cup in six years.  They also boast a much more experienced team, both in the regular season and the playoffs.  Advantage Chicago.

This should be a great series, but I believe Chicago will take it in six games.

Background material for this article came from Puck Daddy.