Our typical conference finals staples, the Stars and the Hurricanes, look poised for long playoff runs once again.
In Carolina, Seth Jarvis keeps evolving and scoring game-winners, as the Hurricanes sit atop the Metropolitan Division at 3-0.
K’Andre Miller is fitting into the offensive-minded defensive structure with two goals, a plus-three rating, and a time on ice average of more than 22 minutes. Alexander Nikishin looks as impactful as anticipated and has three assists in three games to show for it.
Meanwhile, in Dallas, the Stars also boast a 3-0 record in the brutal Central Division. Three players—Mikko Rantanen, Roope Hintz and Thomas Harley—have five points in three games. That’s what they call scoring from all over the lineup, and that’s how you need to win games if you’re the Dallas Stars. So far, so good for new head coach Glen Gulutzan.
However, the question remains: Will either of these two teams finally rise above in this window and lift the Cup? A Stanley Cup Final between the Stars and Hurricanes, two teams overcoming longstanding challenges, would be compelling.
