We got ourselves a marquee matchup, right? The Washington Capitals versus the Vegas Golden Knights. Two large media markets who’ve never won the Stanley Cup. You have fan fav. Alex Ovechkin finally in the last series of the NHL playoffs. He’s a great quote and never camera shy. After finally winning the Eastern Conference, all of the momentum should have the Caps right there for a chance at the ultimate prize, right? Wrong.
2018 NHL Final
Who in their right mind is going to put any NHL betting money on D.C. in this one? After all, Vegas has destroyed the bankrolls of countless hockey odds bettors the entire season. Everyone waited for the other shoe to drop or the clock to strike midnight or the law of averages to take shape. It didn’t and won’t happen.
We’ve already profiled the Golden Knights as a great story. But more than that they’re a powerhouse in the making, a team that could be back here a few times in the next decade. They’ve got talent, a burgeoning culture of winning and hungry players. Every player pulls in the same direction and they’re much less worn down in these playoffs than the Caps. In fact, it could be argued that Washington has already won its Stanley Cup just by getting this far.
Braden Holtby has seen a remarkable turnaround in his game to lead the Capitals. Ovechkin has come through like crazy for his squad. Role players like Lars Eller and others have overperformed. John Carlson has been the best offensive defenseman in the Stanley Cup playoffs. But it’s all for naught. This team is spent. They are going up against one of the most efficient, cohesive teams ever!
So yes, save your money if you were thinking of betting against Vegas, because they’ve been a sure thing in these playoffs. You never want to count your chickens before they hatch, but this team seems unstoppable. In fact, with the Golden Knights installed only as a slight favorite for the series, consider backing them as your NHL champ this season.
Matthew Ross is a sports commentator and a radio host on TSN 690 Radio in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He’s also a contributor to ESPN 101.3 Plattsburgh/Burlington. Follow him @MatthewWords.