As the conference semifinals of the NHL playoffs are in full swing, there are players in each series that can define its outcome.
Whether its quality puck distribution, timely scoring or clutch goalkeeping, each series has a player that possesses one of those attributes, which can set the tone for the series.
Here's a look at some of those players:
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Ottawa Senators: Pittsburgh G Tomas Vokoun
The Penguins currently lead this series 1-0. And while Chris Kunitz and Evgeni Malkin each had two points in the first game, it was Tomas Vokoun's goalkeeping that propelled the Penguins to the win.
Vokoun saved 35 shots in Game 1, while allowing just one goal in a 4-1 win for the Penguins. His goalkeeping will be crucial for the Penguins, as the Senators are notorious for squashing opportunities for their opponents.
The Senators are second in the league in goals against (2.1) and first in the NHL in penalty kill percentage (88.0). That means Vokoun will need to keep the pipes locked down to give the Penguins all the chances they c ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Sean Frye
NHL Playoffs 2013: Players Who Will Make or Break Each Series
May 17th, 2013 by Sean Frye Leave a reply »
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