Western Conference Playoffs: San Jose Falls To St. Louis

On Saturday night, the St. Louis Blues eliminated the San Jose Sharks, winning the series 4-1.  This playoff series was rather mellow compared to the others of the Western Conference quarter finals, no head slamming, no extreme diving and no conspiracy theories (or at least none that I’ve heard), and I, for one, couldn’t be more excited for this outcome.

At the beginning of the playoffs, the prediction was made that the Blues would win in 5 game.  It wasn’t something based on my prejudice against the Sharks but rather a difference in skill between the two teams.

For those of you who are not aware, prior to this season, Brian Elliott has been some what of a joke in the league.  Posting a two year average, in which he played for three teams, of .898 SV% and 3.19 GAA in the same time, it’s hard to believe this is the same player who is averaging 1.56 GAA and a SV% of .940.

In addition to goaltending being taken to another level, goal scoring as added a dimension to the game.  The Blues out scored the Sharks, 14 to 9 in the series and while this seems like an obvious indication of winning, you should take note that the Philadelphia/Pittsburgh series had the teams tied at 25 goals after game 5 despite the fact Philadelphia lead the series.

What could be considered one of the most “boring” playoff games was an example of what this post season should be like: hard hitting, clean hockey with a strong defensive and offensive presence.

You will probably see more of the same in the Blues next match up, two strong teams with a no nonsense way about them, both questing to win the Stanley Cup through honest play, not thuggery.