Monzo Minor: Looking At Game 2 Of The Stanley Cup Finals
By Brian Monzo
» More Columns
Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals was exactly what we all thought it would be.
It was two goalies showing off until a very late defensive breakdown by the Bruins allowed the Canucks to score and take a 1-0 series lead heading into Game 2.
I really think this series will go back-and-forth, but I would not be shocked if the Canucks win Game 2, and take the 2-0 series lead to Beantown.
I loved the way the Canucks took the game over in the third period, even without blueliner Dan Hamhuis, who got banged up after delivering an amazing hip check to Milan Lucic. It was an old school third period. It was physical, it was eventful, and there were so many chances to score goals that you could not blink or else you missed something.
The Canucks will bring the style of play that won Game 1 into Game 2.
Even better for the Canucks, is that the twins, Daniel and Henrik, were borderline invisible and they still won the game. That won't last forever. They are too good and will certainly have better games.
For the Bruins, we saw Tim Thomas actually stand on his head to keep the game scoreless until late. It was an amazing performance. Unfortunately for him, that performance will need to be repeated over and over for the Bruins to have a fighting chance.
Here is what to look for in Game 2:
-The Sedin twins come alive
-Milan Lucic has at least three hits that get a reaction
-Ryan Kesler scores a goal
-Zdeno Chara shoots a lot more
I know a lot of the attention is on the NBA Finals -- the Lebron story etc. etc. -- but if you are in for a thrill, tune into the NHL Stanley Cup Final. You will NOT be let down.
Follow me throughout the series on Twitter: BMonzoNHL660