Bruins and Blackhawks take Early Round 3 Lead

Those who had the Pittsburgh Penguins pegged to take it all during the Stanley Cup playoffs are now seriously considering eating their words. And while some fans in the West are discouraged as they see the defending champs’ chances of moving on slipping through their fingers, others are cheering on the underdog.

The Chicago Blackhawks as an underdog team? Looking back on the phenomenal start to their season, it’s hard to imagine. But although they won their past two series, they didn’t do it easily. And facing Kings’ goaltender Jonathan Quick, it seemed as though this was where their playoff run was going to end. But they’ve found the answer to the hot goaltender in not just the first game of the series, but the second as well. In the playoffs you’re never in trouble until you’ve lost at home though, so fans will have a better idea of whether the Kings are really in trouble after their home game tomorrow night.

The Boston Bruins weren’t exactly an underdog coming into round three, but the Penguins were heavily favored to take it all this year. If that’s going to be the case, they need to figure out a way to answer the Bruins on all sides. It’s just been one game, but the Bruins dominated throughout, on both the offensive and defensive. Every team has a bad game now and then, but the frustration Crosby showed running goaltender Rask after the game, and then blaming the loss on referees, may speak volumes about the trouble Pittsburgh is in.

Do you think the Blackhawks could have a sweep in round three? And will the Bruins continue to dominate? Who do you think will move onto the Finals, and win?

Categorized in: NHL