Boston Bruins – Washington Capitals Series Prediction:
Joe Russo
For the first time since 2012 the Boston Bruins will square off against the Washington Capitals in the playoffs. Ultimately it comes down to special teams, Washington’s power play vs. Boston’s penalty kill both of which are top rank in the league.
In turn the Capitals get the slight edge offensively, and defensively both teams appear even, but it is between the pipes where Boston outshines their opposition.
Unlike in years past, Boston yields home ice advantage to Washington who historically have not defended it well. However, to ensure success the B’s will need to match the Capitals’ intensity out of the gate. This will be no easy feat with the likes of Tom Wilson, Garnet Hathaway, and Anthony Mantha on the forecheck, along with Brenden Dillon and old pal Zdeno Chara guarding the front of the net.
This one will be well worth the price of admission and has seven grueling games written all over it. But I stand firm when the dust settles Boston will emerge victorious.
Prediction: Bruins in 7