I didn't expect to be writing about this series so early (whoa...deja vu). This series started almost the complete opposite as it was expected to start: GOALS and plenty of them. Not taking away from Rinne and Smith who both made some pretty spectacular saves (well Rinne did, Smith sold a regular save like it was the hardest thing ever). The real goaltending that was expected came out in Game 3 as Nashville closed the gap in the series despite Radulov and (Andrei) Kostitsyn staying up a little late (re: 4:00 am) and breaking curfew. The debate around Game 4 was should they be back in the line up. Nashville lost by 1 so it's plausible to say that putting Radulov and Kostitsyn in the lineup could have made a difference, but we'll never know. Game 5 was a heartbreak for Nashville. Rinne let in 2 shots that should have been stopped and Smith only allowed a deflected shot by him. Now the Coyotes go on to the Western Finals while the Preds are hoping to lock up Suter and Weber long term.
Games
Nashville Predators 3
Phoenix Coyotes 4 (OT)
Nashville Predators 3
Phoenix Coyotes 5
Phoenix Coyotes 0
Nashville Predators 2
Phoenix Coyotes 1
Nashville Predators 0
Nashville Predators 1
Phoenix Coyotes 2
Three Thoughts On The Series
- Tinfoil hat #1: Phoenix seemed to have quite a few blown calls in their favour. Not saying, just saying.
- Tinfoil hat #2: How convenient it is the the NHL-owned Phoenix Coyotes are are getting an actual owner during a deep playoff run?
- I guess Andrei Kostitsyn can enjoy the bars in Finland (not Radulov, he'll enjoy his new knee).
Not even a (live?) catfish could shake Mike Smith.
I still hate Mike Smith, but I can't pass up a chance to show a goalie (almost) scoring.
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