Game 1 between the Sharks and the Blackhawks was an all out war. Normally when I think of the western conference I think speed and finesse from every team top to bottom. However, that was not the kind of game we were treated to in game 1. The Sharks and Blackhawks came out hitting and played physical hockey for all 60 minutes. There were a total of 62 hits between the two teams in game 1 and while I do not see the pace of 62+ hits per game, I do see this continuing to be a very physical and long series. I feel that the San Jose Sharks, who have never been to the Stanley Cup Finals, controlled much of the 1st game. Nabokov let in an "easy" goal to give the blackhawks their first goal of the game, a save attempt im sure he would like back. The Sharks were not only able to controll much of the game but they also managed to put up 45 shots on goal and only Niemi's goaltending brilliance held the Sharks at bay. At the same time the Sharks did a great job at disctracting Byfuglien while he camped out in front of the Sharks net. It was though Byfuglien's powerful slapshot with 6:45 to go in the 3rd period that sealed the deal for the Blackhawks in game 1.
The Blackhawks owned the Sharks in the regular season, winning 3 out of their 4 matchups, which includes winning both games at the Shark Tank {4-3 [OT] & 7-2}. I feel that the Sharks played better in game 1 than what the final result was. I still think this series is pretty much a toss up. I expect this series to be 2-2 after 4 games. With all of that said I think that there is great value and I suggest taking the San Jose Sharks (+185)[@ BookMaker] to win the Western Conference Finals Series.
Where The Bookies Don't Stand A Chance!
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