Journey to the Stanley Cup Final: A Reflective Ranking of 14 Playoff Series

Stanley Cup Final: A Reflection on the Playoff Journey

As we delve into the Stanley Cup Final, just two games in, it’s hard not to anticipate an epic finish. However, it’s essential to pause and appreciate the journey we took to reach this stage, which includes a comprehensive analysis of the 14 playoff series leading to the final showdown. This year’s postseason has been a mixed experience overall. Remarkably, we witnessed no series sweeps—a rarity in the playoffs—yet, a substantial number ended swiftly in five games, which often lacks excitement. Despite it being a top-heavy bracket, looking back, we may not have substantial grounds for complaints about the hockey presented this season. Let’s examine these matchups, starting from the lowest ranked.

Series Rankings

1. Hurricanes vs. Capitals

  • Expectation: Anticipation was high for a riveting clash of powers in the Eastern Conference, with the Hurricanes finally up against a formidable opponent.
  • Outcome: Ultimately, it felt disheartening that we didn’t even see a sweep after all the hype.
  • Overtime Games: None.
  • Contentious Moments: There were a few, but the highlight came post-series with a peculiar moment between coaches Paul Maurice and Rod Brind’Amour discussing etiquette during the handshake line.
  • Defining Moment: Brind’Amour’s risky choice to bench Frederik Andersen backfired, leading to a lackluster performance from his backup, effectively ending the series.
  • Verdict: This series underwhelmed considering the expectations; few have felt the sting of such disappointment on this stage.

2. Hurricanes vs. Devils

  • Expectation: A straightforward victory seemed likely for the Hurricanes against a weary Devils squad.
  • Outcome: The predicted easy win came true, although Game 5 unfolded as a thrilling finish.
  • Overtime Games: There were two, marked by back-to-back double OT bouts.
  • Contentious Moment: Timo Meier had a controversial moment when he collided with Andersen, leading to a rescinded goaltender interference call.
  • Defining Moment: Sebastian Aho clinched the series with a power-play goal in overtime.
  • Verdict: Metrically satisfying, yet Game 5’s excitement slightly improved its ranking but not enough for glory.

3. Kings vs. Oilers

  • Expectation: Kings looked to leverage home ice advantage after a solid regular season against the Oilers.
  • Outcome: Unfortunately, they could not keep pace with the relentless Oilers.
  • Overtime Games: One pivotal OT occurred in Game 4, where LA’s rally tied the series.
  • Contentious Moment: A tripping call in OT that resulted in the go-ahead goal stirred debates among fans and analysts alike.
  • Defining Moment: The disastrous challenge by Coach Jim Hiller in Game 3 signaled a major turning point that escalated to a series-wide fallout.
  • Verdict: The aftermath left the Kings with crucial decisions for their future and a sense of disappointment from yet another early exit.

4. Panthers vs. Lightning

  • Expectation: Experts predicted an intense and competitive series, fanning the flames of an enduring rivalry.
  • Outcome: However, Florida shocked everyone with a decisive performance that highlighted their growth.
  • Overtime Games: There weren’t any needed.
  • Contentious Moments: The matchup was packed with suspensions and skirmishes, underscoring the rivalry’s intensity.
  • Defining Moment: A pair of late goals in Game 4 turned the tides, sealing a swift Florida victory.
  • Verdict: This series demonstrated the evolution of the Panthers, even without overtime drama.

As we recount these series leading to the Stanley Cup Final, each bout featured its own clusters of tension, triumph, and surprising twists that encapsulate the essence of hockey playoffs. The narratives reflect on teams’ journeys, showcasing disappointments and achievements that brought us to this much-anticipated climax.