from the CP at the Calgary Herald,
Here are five storylines that could carry over into Round 2.
OFFENCE, NOT DEFENCE, WINNING GAMES — Seven of the eight teams that advanced to the second round averaged at least 3.20 goals per game, with only Vegas making it out of Round 1 relying on goaltending. The defending Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins scored the most at 4.67 goals per game to eliminate the Philadelphia Flyers in six games. Meanwhile, 27 goaltenders made an appearance in the first round and Philadelphia used three different netminders in an effort to find a solution. Four of the eight teams still alive called upon their backup at some point, even for relief in a blowout, but all have a bona fide No. 1 they should be able to turn to from here on out.
NO NEED FOR OVERTIME — Just five of the 43 first-round games needed extra time to decide an outcome this year, and four of those happened in the Washington Capitals’ six-game series win over the Columbus Blue Jackets. In comparison, last season’s first round had 18 of 42 games go to overtime, with all eight series needing OT to determine at least one contest. Much of the post-season so far hasn’t needed extra time because many games haven’t even been close. There were just 11 one-goal games in the opening round. Vegas and L.A. were in on four of those, all going the Golden Knights’ way. No one will complain about more OT hockey especially now that the games are expected to be more intense.
three more storylines...
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