Tonight is the last game of the 2013 season for the LA Kings.
You're probably thinking... Matt? What are you talking about? The series is only 3-1 and Mike Richards is back in the lineup tonight!
And yes, you would be right dear reader. There is still a game 5 to play tonight, but I have a few reasons as to why the reigning champs will be golfing next week instead of playing in the finals:
First off, the Kings STINK on the road. They have just been lousy to say the least. It's not even funny. Their 1-7 road record speaks volumes as to why this series won't continue. The only game they have won on the road in the playoffs was handed to them on a silver platter by Blues goaltender Brian Elliot (Who played fantastically up until game 5), and that was in the opening round. The only thing that keeps them in road games is Johnathan Quick who has been a non factor for the most part during this series.
Secondly, the Blackhawks have one of the most dynamic offenses in the league. Although they haven't looked it as of late this is the Presidents' Trophy winning team were talking about. The same team that went on a 24 game point streak in the beginning of this season. I believe the dynamic duo of Toews and Kane are about to return to 2010 form. Not even Quick will be able to keep the scoring below 3 goals with how many star forwards are in Chicago.
Lastly, LA has had a hard time scoring against Crawford as they have only scored 7 times in 4 games against the Chicago Blackhawks. A legitimate argument could be made that Corey Crawford has been the best goalie this playoffs. Crow is posting a 1.72 GAA (which is the lowest in the 2013 postseason) with an 11-5 record and a 0.936 save percentage. But, because of the powerful Chicago offense he will never get the credit that he truly deserves.
So with those reasons, I can certainly say...
Welcome to Chicago, Boston.
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