My Stanley Cup Final dream matchup for this season would be Montreal against the Chicago Blackhawks.

Two, original six teams, the Canadiens with their heritage (imagine the pre-game presentation) and the Chicago Blackhawks, probably the best of all teams in recent memory.

But I am getting ahead of myself, first we need to settle the 2nd round remaining series.

Against all odds, I am taking Montreal over Boston tonight and will also pick the Ducks over the Kings.

That means the conference finals will start on Saturday with all the teams basically even in the rest factor.

Of course, if the Kings/Ducks series goes to game 7, one of those teams may be forced into a quick turnaround, most likely playing on Sunday.

One thing on my mind is the physical play in the second round games. Is it me, or has the hitting and the rough stuff been a little on the low side this year?

I recall in past years, some teams were beat up by the time the reached the 3rd round, but this year seems to be different, Maybe the easier travel schedule has something to do with it and it is probably a good thing teams are as healthy as they can be at this time of year.

Whatever happens, I will be watching as we reach the half way point in this second season marathon.