Round One of the Western Conference playoffs features a rematch of the 2011 Western Conference finals. That time around, the Vancouver Canucks came out on top over the San Jose Sharks. This time around, it is anyone's game. Both teams have their share of ups and downs. The Sharks are coming off a 12-3 finish to wrap up their ninth straight postseason berth, while the Vancouver Canucks lost their final two regular season games.
The San Jose Sharks swept the Canucks in the regular season, but both teams look different since the last time they met. The Canucks have Ryan Kesler back while the Sharks made several moves at the trade deadline. They are a much faster and deeper than before. The Sharks will likely rely heavily on their strong power play abilities and goal tending from Antti Niemi. Niemi is no stranger to the post season after he helped the Chicago Blackhawks to a Stanley Cup victory in 2010. He posted three shutouts and 1.93 goals-against average during the Shark's final 16-game set.
While the Sharks are set at goaltender, the Canucks have some uncertainty at the position. Cory Schneider was injured for the final two games of the season, leading to Roberto Luongo to get the start in Game 1 of the playoffs. Luongo lost his final two starts of the season. Schneider was 17-9 with a 2.11 GAA and five shutouts on the season. Luongo is still a valid option, but Vancouver will have to make up the difference in the goal scoring. Henrik Sedin saw a surge this season, finishing with a team-high 34 assists and 45 points overall. His brother Daniel finished 40 points on the season. They had six players score at least 10 goals or more on the season.
This series could prove to be one of the better series in the opening round of the Western Conference playoffs. Both teams have something to prove. The Sharks are seeking a round of revenge, while the Canucks are trying to overcome recent years of postseason disappoint.
Watch the San Jose Sharks vs. the Vancouver Canucks live stream, click here.
