No. 7 Philadelphia Flyers (East) vs. No. 2 Chicago Blackhawks (West)
Chris Pronger is old, and his age will be exposed by the speed of the Blackhawks’ young guns. Toews and Kane will light the lamp like it’s going out of style, and Flyers’ goon Dan Carcillo will have his ugly mug smashed in by “Big Buff” Dustin Byfuglien.
Flyers’ fans, don’t count on Michael Leighton. Sure, he stole the series against the Montreal Canadiens, but this guy is a discount bin backup goaltender. He’s for sure no Antti Niemi.
I think the only bright spots for the Flyers in the final will be Claude Giroux and Ville Leino. These guys are definitely going to be pests for the Blackhawks’ blue-liners, and could challenge Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook. If Giroux uses his talented hands and big frame, he can easily out power the defence and make of mess of Niemi. Same goes for Leino. He’s the Flyers’ version of Dustin Byfuglien- he parks himself by the net and creates plays. He has that “never quit” attitude.
However, in the end, Hossa will finally get his cup, Niemi and Toews will battle for the Conn Smythe trophy, and the Blackhawks will end their 49 year Stanley Cup drought and bring one home for the Windy City.
Blackhawks in 5
