NHL Thread

[Son of JayJamJah]

Originally Posted by Incogneato

The thing is, even if Datsyuk and Lidstrom are healthy, Detroit will need them, specifically Datsyuk, to produce for the team. So far in these playoffs, Datsyuk hasn't really done much at all in terms of contributing to the team's success.

Sure Lidstrom would definitely help them, but even with him healthy, I don't think they have what it takes to stop the Malkin/Crosby duo if they keep firing on all cylinders as they did throughout the series with the Canes. If they keep putting up these kind of numbers and Detroit's stars can't get it going, I can see the series being a quick one.

The Pens seem to be a much better team than last year, and the two people they'll really be counting on now have experience in being in the cup finals.

If Lidstrom are healthy Datsyuk play Detroit in Five otherwise Detroit in Seven.

Lidstrom is the best defender in the league and the best or second best of all-time. Datsyuk is the best defensive forward in the league and he and Zetterberg will shut down Crosby and Malkin much of the series as they did last year and have done to Rick Nash, Martin Getzlaf, Patrickj Kane and Johnathan Toews thus far and have done to pretty much everyone the past 15 years.

Pittsburgh does seem improved, but really are they? The had a better regular season and a better record in the playoffs getting to the cup round. Sykora and Gonchar were playing at a much higher level and Hossa (one of the top 10 forwards in the league) was on their side not Detroit.

The wings have (if healthy) the best forward, best defensemen, the better goalie, the deeper team, more expereince and the better coach.

The x-factor is the Penguins hunger. They are a very talented offensive team and with the Wings fresh off a Cup victory it's unlike they'll be as desperate for the cup as Pittsburgh.

I can't wait.