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2023 NHL Playoffs Series Prediction: Jets vs Golden Knights

Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X April 16, 2023
3 1 minute read

As we continue with our series predictions, I have the WC2 Winnipeg Jets defeating the Vegas Golden Knights in 7 games.

Analytically and statistically, everything favors Las Vegas in this series. However, I like Winnipeg matched up against them a lot.

One of the top five goalies in the NHL, Connor Hellebuyck has the capacity to win games for his team. He had a 33.62 GSAx and a.920 SV% (4th in the NHL). Vegas is in a similar situation with a lot of ambiguity and inconsistencies. Although Logan Thompson performed well, injuries make it unclear whether he will be available. While Jonathan Quick has postseason experience, he has played poorly this year. Do you trust Laurent Brossoit, who appears to be the Game 1 starter?

Also, Winnipeg’s top six players have strong scoring potential, and I believe that postseason play is when players like Pierre-Luc Dubois and Blake Wheeler really shine.

The same goes for the attacking core of Las Vegas, with Jack Eichel leading the charge. After suffering repeated back injuries, I have trouble believing Mark Stone will be fully recovered.

With Shea Theodore and Alex Pietrangelo at the front with Alec Martinez, Zach Whitecloud, and Brayden McNabb close behind, Las Vegas has the advantage on defense, but Winnipeg also boasts Josh Morrissey, who was among the finest defensemen in the league. Nonetheless, it’s no secret that Vegas triumphs in that scenario.

Goaltending will likely be the deciding factor in the end. These two front lines appear to be fairly evenly matched to me. Vegas dominates on defense, but Winnipeg has a goalie who ranks among the top five in the league, while Vegas has a serious question mark in that position.

Final Series Prediction: Jets in 7 over the Golden Knights.

Igor Burdetskiy

Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine
I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!
Igor Burdetskiy
Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X April 16, 2023
3 1 minute read
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