Stanley Cup Finals: Game 1 Preview

Jun 11, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the Stanley Cup during media day in preparation for game one of the 2013 Stanley Cup Final between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Boston Bruins at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

The wait is finally over. On Wednesday night, the Boston Bruins will face off with the Chicago Blackhawks for a chance to win the most coveted prize in hockey, the Stanley Cup.

The run to the Cup doesn’t get any easier for the boys from Boston. After only allowing two goals in four games to the best offensive team in the National Hockey League, they will now try to do the same against the second best offensive team. The Chicago Blackhawks are averaging 2.76 goals in the playoffs and have just as many threats as Pittsburgh. Whether it is Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Marian Hossa, Patrick Sharp or Bryan Bickell, anyone on this team is capable of scoring. Boston’s defensive will once again be put to the ultimate test of shutting down a team that had a deep team.

The Blackhawks are known for their explosive offensive, but they are no slouch on defense. Duncan Keith, a former Norris Trophy winner, and Brent Seabrook are two of the best defensemen in the NHL and along with Corey Crawford in between the pipes, Boston’s offensive game will be put to the test.

Looking at what Boston is going to have to do to defeat the Chicago Blackhawks, they need to put bodies in front of Corey Crawford. Boston has been so successful this postseason when they put bodies in front and put shots on net. During the 2013 playoffs, Crawford has a .935 save percentage and a 1.74 goals against average, he is going to be difficult to beat if he is given clean looks at the puck. Putting bodies in front of him will cause traffic and confusion and give the Bruins many opportunities to score goals.

Also, Tuukka Rask will have to be on top of his game. Just like the previous series against the Penguins, Rask will be facing a dangerous offense. Throughout the playoffs, he has given the Bruins an opportunity to win every game. He has looked invincible of late, and if he keeps up this outstanding play, the Blackhawks will struggle to score goals, just like Pittsburgh did.

Both teams have worked an uncountable number of hours to reach this point. They both know that the Cup is in sight, but also know the job is not finished. The Bruins or Blackhawks are just four wins away from hoisting the Stanley Cup and they will do whatever it takes to do so.