The Western Conference finals in the NHL playoffs will get underway on Thursday, and it looks like it will be a battle decided by veteran goaltending when the Detroit Red Wings host the Dallas Stars at Joe Louis Arena in Game 1.
Dallas Stars at Detroit Red Wings – 7:30 PM ET
The Stars fought off a persistent San Jose team for a six-game victory, with the series-winner coming in the fourth overtime of Game 6's 2-1 win. Five of the six games in that series were decided by a single goal, so the Stars have proven they can win close games. Netminder Marty Turco has been the star of the show with an GAA of 1.73, and he was even better in the San Jose series, posting a GAA of 1.51 and a save percentage of .941. Captain Brenden Morrow put in a performance that highlights the letter on his jersey, as he scored four goals against the Sharks, including the series winner, and finished every check he started as his team followed by his example.
The Red Wings made short work of Colorado with a four-game sweep which was punctuated by an 8-2 win on the road in Game 4. Johan Franzen racked up an amazing nine goals against the Avalanche, while Henrik Zetterberg added five goals and four assists, including a no-look goal while falling that is sure to be the highlight of the postseason. Chris Osgood extended his winning streak to six games with a GAA of 2.26 and a save percentage of .914. Osgood now leads the NHL in playoff GAA with 1.52.
The Presidents' Trophy-winning Red Wings are favored at -240 to advance to the Stanley Cup final, and also at -200 to win the first game. The Red Wings have yet to lose at home in the postseason, and they were the best team in the league at home during the regular season. Detroit has also taken three of four meetings with Dallas so far this season. Turco may have to stand on his head once again for the Stars to pull off the upset in this series. Bet This Game Now.
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