Boston Bruins – New York Islanders Series Prediction:
Bryan Murphy
Ah yes, the always fun and entertaining New York Islanders. While boring to the average fan, the Islanders are an example of a well-oiled machine that is an absolute pain to play against thanks to Barry Trotz. The Boston Bruins certainly will have a handful and they know it too — they lost the first five matchups against the Isles this season.
The Islanders’ goaltending situation could make or break this season. Semyon Varlamov had a fantastic regular season, but is 0-2-0 in the playoffs with a 3.61 goals-against average and a .903 save percentage.
The starting job looks like it is Ilya Sorokin’s to lose, who was great in the first round against the Penguins. But he’s also a rookie, and the B’s just made quick work out of the first-year starting goalie in D.C.
With their goaltending in the air, plus the Islanders’ offense just not being good enough to beat the Black and Gold, this will be the Bruins’ series to lose. Unless, of course, Kyle Palmieri continues to torture the B’s. But we’re just going to say that was strictly a New Jersey thing.
Prediction: Bruins in 6