Of the four possible final-round matchups, it’s easy to guess which two teams the NHL would like to see vie for the Stanley Cup.
Gary Bettman & Co. just might get the big-market, Original Six showdown between New York and Chicago that would maximize ratings, interest and intrigue, but nothing is guaranteed if the first two rounds of the playoffs are any indication.
Of the 22 games in the second round, 15 were decided by one goal, including all seven of the Rangers-Capitals series. Almost one-quarter of the games (five) went to overtime.