We're only a few games into the NHL Conference Finals, but the Boston Bruins are separating themselves from the pack. Having dominated the Penguins by a combined score of 9-1 in Pittsburgh, they head back to Boston with a 2-0 series lead. If they can keep their level of play up, they'll go on to win their second Stanley Cup in three years.
A lot of folks will say that the Blackhawks are the favorite to win it all, as they're also up 2-0 over the Kings. There's no shame in that. However, the team defense, strong depth and rock-solid goaltending of the Bruins will get it done.
It's hard to quantify, but the Bruins are the most well-coached team in the playoffs. Each player knows his role and executes it with serious tenacity. That's the case from star players like Patrice Bergeron and Zdeno Chara all the way down to grinders like Daniel Paille and Gregory Campbell.
Claude Julien's coaching is most apparent in the way the team plays defense. While special teams are part of the game, it's important to evaluate teams based on play at even strength. In five-on-five hockey, the Bruins have a stunning goal dif ...
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Article written by Rob Patterson
Why the Boston Bruins Are the Real Stanley Cup Favorites
June 4th, 2013 by Rob Patterson Leave a reply »
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