NHL Qualifying Round Predictions: Western Conference

Before I start with these 4 matchups there are a couple of notes I want to share.  1: For the top 4 teams in each conference that are just playing for playoff positioning in the first bit here I will not be making a prediction article but I will be making those predictions on the NHL show which you can find here.   

These will be short and rapid-fire, they won’t cover all the aspects but you will get the bottom line prediction.  Here are the quickfire answers to the question of predictions.

Nashville Predators vs Arizona Coyotes

For Nashville maybe put Saros in instead of Pekka Rinne at goalie, I just don’t trust Pekka.  They may have a better chance with Saros.  Interesting to note with 65 points Josi leads the team in points.  I would like to see the Yotes pick it up on offense as they sat 23rd in GAA.  Their backend has been very good though.  It could go either way but I predict the Coyotes in 5 games.

Winnipeg Jets vs Calgary Flames

Connor Hellebuyck may have to carry the backend as the Jets defense is in need of some help.  Their offense is average though so there is that.  As for the Flames they are better with keeping pucks out of their net also but they are only average in that category.  They could use some help in scoring though.  Winnipeg Jets in 5 games

  Minnesota Wild vs Vancouver Canucks

  I kind of see Minnesota as a spark and somewhat exciting.  Their offense ended 12th in GFA.  Their backend statistically needed some help.  The Canucks on paper are the superior team but I think the Wild will put up a fight.  Canucks in 5 games.

  Chicago Blackhawks vs Edmonton Oilers

  I don’t trust Mike Smith a ton in goal.  The Hawks still have Cane and Toes.  Now, Connor McDavid and Leon Drisital are possibly the two best forwards in the league so there is that.  However, I am picking the upset.  Blackhawks in 4 games.