This has been one of the worst years I have had for making Stanley Cup playoff predictions.
Although, I don't think you will find too many people who correctly forecasted a four-game sweep in the Eastern Conference final by the Bruins over the high-scoring Pittsburgh Penguins.
I admit that I have underestimated these Bruins all Spring. That ends now.
They have proven that hard work, strong team defensive play, solid goaltending combined with a lot of depth in the roster has been a dominant formula.
I look for that to continue as they take on the President's trophy winning Chicago Blackhawks for the cup.
Tuukka Rask turned in one of the great playoff performances against the Penguins, and has a .943 save percentage.
Other than the weird goal he gave up to the Rangers in the second round, Rask has been sensational.
The Bruin's defence, which is anchored by the hulking Zdeno Chara, will continue to play tough against the high-scoring Blackhawks.
The blueline corps has been further bolstered during the post-season by the emergence of rookie Torey Krug and the sudden scoring power of Johnny Boychuk.
David Krejci has been a force up front, along with the pesky Brad Marchand.
The Hawks are fast, and can score.
If Patrick Kane is back on track after his hat-trick in the clinching overtime win over the Kings, and if captain Jonathan Toews gets rolling, the offence will be hard to stop.
Patrick Sharp continues to have a solid playoff, and Bryan Bickell has been a big surprise.
I think the weakness in the Hawks is the blueline depth and whether Corey Crawford can keep playing as well in goal.
I am taking the Bruins to win the cup in six.
Enjoy the final
