Eastern Conference Playoff Preview

In a season where literally anything was possible, hockey fans were given the unfathomable. It was a season where teams sprung up out of nowhere to make the playoffs and a season where sure-fire playoff teams had struggling points. We saw an unimaginable points streak by the Blackhawks and saw an incredible turnaround by the Washington Capitals. We saw the Red Wings almost miss the playoffs in the first time in 22 years as the Blue Jackets threatened to steal a playoff spot in the West. And, of course, we saw the Islanders and Maple Leafs, two cursed franchises, make the playoffs.

The storylines for this shortened season were endless and in the last couple of months, we have 16 teams who will battle for the ultimate prize.

These first round matchups should give us some good hockey so let's jump in.

Why the NHL is Ruining the Winter Classic

Let me take you back in time to January 1, 2008 to the first Winter Classic taken place in Ralph Wilson Stadium in Bufallo.
The whole game was just a crazy spectacle as the hockey world watched, mouth agape, as two teams battled it out on the slushy ice. And of course who could forget the way it ended, a moment so incredible, even a Philadelphia fan gets goosebumps from it.

This moment was essentially the epitome of what the Winter Classic represented. One game where we can all watch and appreciate where hockey came from and the continuously growing league that we have. The NHL's premiere star, Sidney Crosby, was the centre of attention at the biggest moment. Although it was just the beginning, Sidney Crosby would have many more memories of outdoor games to come (or...maybe he might have some trouble remembering them)

The Winter Classics in the following years showcased different cool matchups and nice storylines. The games continued to give us cool venues for a hockey game and created a lot of buzz for hockey every year around New Years time. It was a time when hockey was as close to the centre of attention as it would be every year.

Last year was the first year where the views dropped down a bit. I broke it down here but essentially contributed it to the fact that it could be getting old. With a Winter Classic every year, now with the Heritage Classic also, we had a cool rivalry but the game lacked a cool storyline or good gameplay.

Well everyone, it's time to purchase a new winter coat and invest in some new ski caps. The NHL just announced there will be 6 outdoor games this coming year.
And I hate them for it.