NHL Western Conference playoff update: April 24

The first round of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs began earlier this week and it’s already off to a strong start. Let’s break down each series from the Western Conference.

Dallas Stars (1) vs. Vegas Golden Knights (WC2)

These two teams faced each other three times during the regular season and the Golden Knight emerged victorious in all three meetings. Vegas managed to net yet another win against the Stars after their 4-3 victory in Game 1 of the series with only 15 shots on goal.

Based on head-to-head stats alone, it appears that Vegas will take the series. Although, Dallas has been able to keep the games close. eight out of 10 of their last regular season meetings have been decided by one goal. If the Stars can capitalize on their shots, they might have a chance to squeak by the Golden Knights.

This will be a fun matchup to watch unfold, but I think the defending Stanley Cup champs will make their way to the next round in five.

Winnipeg Jets (2) vs. Colorado Avalanche (3)

Winnipeg entered the playoffs on an eight-game win streak, outscoring their opponents by 18 points, including a 7-0 win against the Avalanche as one of their final games. Lately, they have been unstoppable both offensively, defensively and between the pipes.

The Jets continued that dominance and took an early series lead after pulling off a 7-6 victory, but the Aves tied it back up in Game 2. While Colorado lost every prior regular season matchup against Winnipeg with a -13 goal differential, I think they can still hang with this top-rated team.

I can see this being a back-and-forth matchup that possibly needs a full seven-game series to decide a winner.

Vancouver Canucks (1) vs. Nashville Predators (WC1)

Some NHL fans think the Canucks will have an easy first round against the Predators, but that might not be the case.

Nashville has had one of the strongest second half of the season to lead them into the playoffs. They accumulated multiple multi-game win streaks and may have momentum over the Canucks. However, Vancouver has been a more well-rounded team in terms of scoring and goaltending.

With the series tied at one, there is a lot of room to predict who might make it to the second round. I think Vancouver will win in six, but don't count out the Preds just yet.

Edmonton Oilers (2) vs. Los Angeles Kings (3)

The Oilers hold a 1-0 series lead over the Kings after winning by a fairly large margin, 7-4. They look to build upon this victory and make a run for the Cup which they haven't won since 1990.

While Edmonton has the better offense, they lack security in the net which could ultimately be their downfall. This is the opposite for LA. The Kings lack an offensive scoring capability, but make it up between the pipes.

This will be an interesting series to follow. I believe Edmonton will make it to the second round in six.

Carlin Whalen is a third-year student majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, please email cjw6426@psu.edu.