2016 MRFHL Final Preview

Washington Capitals

QF: defeated Bruins in 7 games

SF: defeated Lightning in 7 games

CF: defeated Devils in 7 games

It’s been a truly amazing run for the Capitals in these playoffs. The resilient Capitals are 8-0 in elimination games, taking every series to 7 games and eventually overcoming the odds. The two key pieces through those game sevens have been Henrik Lundqvist and Brandon Dubinsky.

Lundqvist has been virtually unbeatable, only allowing 4 goals over the three game sevens. While on the offensive end it’s been Dubinsky, who’s three assists against the Lightning vaulted them into the conference finals where he eventually scored the OT winner to bring them to this point. Blake Wheeler’s 14 goals have been just a continued success from his regular season production after being acquired mid-season.

Kris Russell has been a workhorse, logging over 30 minutes a game for the Capitals and all the while leaving his body on the line blocking 41 shots.  The Capitals will definitely be looking for redemption this year after falling to the Jets in the finals last year, and this group has clawed their way to this point and the question remains, do they have enough left?

Arizona Coyotes

QF: defeated Ducks in 5 games

SF: defeated Canucks in 5 games

CF: defeated Blackhawks in 5 games

Unlike the Capitals, the Coyotes have almost steamrolled their way to the finals, only losing three games on their way to this point and not having to deal with much adversity.

In net Ryan Miller has been absolutely stellar to this point after an already excellent regular season. The defence, while not flashy, has been a steadying presence in these playoffs led by the veteran Dennis Wideman. Wideman may not have been logging the same kind of minutes as some of the Capitals defenders, but his offensive production and defensive acumen has been some of the best in the playoffs.

The trio on the top line have been excellent with Scott Hartnell adding the physical element to an already productive offensive game. One thing to watch out for is the health of Patrik Elias who injured himself in the last series and is questionable to start the finals. The fan favourite has been a calming influence to the top line and his loss would have a massive impact on the Coyotes offence.

Prediction: While the Capitals have been resilient throughout these playoffs, it has definitely taken a toll physically and mentally. The Coyotes have breezed their way through to this point and they have to be prepared for a much tougher matchup this round though will ultimately take the series. Coyotes in 6