2017 NHL Playoffs: Everything You Need to Know
Published April 21, 2017 by Sol FH
The 2017 NHL Playoffs are proving to be one of the most action-packed in recent years and the odds are better than ever.
Round 1 of the 2017 NHL Playoffs is almost complete, and for the Calgary Flames it already is, but this year is proving to be one of the most interesting and action-packed in recent history. Not only are we seeing the number 1 ranked team down 3-0 to the Wild Card winner, but the intensity on the ice makes it worth watching these games very closely.
Western Conference
Chicago Blackhawks vs Nashville Predators
What can be said about this series aside from, Wow! The Blackhawks went into the playoffs with the best record in the Western Conference and are playing the Predators, whom made it into the playoffs through the Wildcard game. The Predators are now up 3-0 with Game 4 tonight at 1:05 GMT. In a surprise turn of events, the Predators are listed at 10bet Sports as favorites at 1.76, whilst the Blackhawks are at 2.10.
Minnesota Wild vs St. Louis Blues
The Blues are up 3-1 after taking control of the first three games. The Wild struck back in Game 4, 2-0, but it doesn't look like they will stick around much longer. With Game 5 coming up on Saturday Night, punters have a great chance to bet with the Blues in the underdog spot at 888 Sport, who posted in favor of the Wild at 2.10 to the Blues' 3.20 and win some extra cash.
Anaheim Ducks vs Calgary Flames
The Flames had hopes that they would proceed to the second round, but the Ducks were too strong. The Flames were eliminated after a brutal series for them on Wednesday Night. The Ducks go on to a well-deserved second round appearance against the winner of the Oilers/Sharks series.
Edmonton Oilers vs San Jose Sharks
For the last few seasons the Oilers were trying to get back into their glory years. Days when Gretzky hoisted the cup and things were happier in the city of Edmonton, Alberta. This season, they received the best thing that has happened to their team, and his name is Connor McDavid. This 20-year old captain single-handedly took the Oilers to the post-season and is scoring goals like he has been in the league for years. The series heads to Game 6 on Saturday Night.
Eastern Conference
Montreal Canadiens vs New York Rangers
Another one of the longest rivalries in NHL history, the Habs and the Rangers are going toe-to-toe and the action is of the best in the playoffs so far. The Canadiens had the best record in the Atlantic Division and look like they could advance to play the winner of the Senators/Bruins series. Game 6 will be played on Saturday Night.
Ottawa Senators vs Boston Bruins
The Senators are up 3-1 and it doesn't look like the Bruins will make it out of the first round. After winning the first game, the Bruins lost two-in-a-row in overtime and must get the win in Ottawa tonight. bet365 Sports has posted the best pre-game odds for this game in favor of the Senators, at 1.76 to the Bruins' 2.50.
Washington Capitals vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Many thought that the Caps would sweep the Leafs in four games, but as we have seen, this is simply not the case whatsoever. The Maple Leafs are in great shape to make it to their first second round in many, many years, but must get through their Game 5 tie tonight at 00:00 GMT in Washington and the odds are stacked against them with 888 Sport posting at 3.80, while the Capitals are favorites at 1.86.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Columbus Blue Jackets
The defending NHL Stanley Cup Champions, Pittsburgh Penguins are through to the second round after ousting the Blue Jackets 4-1. Sidney Crosby and the rest of the Pens will face the winner of the Capitals/Leafs.