Round Two - Boston vs London - Toss Up?

When the playoff season starts, anything can happen. Upsets will happen and giants can fall. As Boston prepares to play game 1 tonight against its rival the London Monarchs, we peel back the onion that will be this matchup. Looking at the overall numbers, this would appear to be a very even matchup that could be over quickly or go the distance.

The Tale of the Tape - Overall

Note the Colonials will need to be more disciplined as they averaged 9.2 PIM/Game compared to London’s 8.3

Goalie comparison

Boston: Darcy Kuemper (Edge)

• .912 SV%
• 2.39 GAA
• 44-15-3

London: Jake Oettinger

• .906 SV%
• 2.63 GAA
• 24-8-4 record

Since acquiring Oettinger from Seattle, he has provided stability in the crease for London and was solid in round 1.

Head-to-Head Comparison - Defense

Overall, Boston has more depth on the backend – Edge Boston

Star Power vs Depth – Offense

London is top-heavy and explosive which allows the Monarchs to blow out opponents, whereas Boston is layered and matchup-proof and spreads out their scoring. If top line with Aho can be contained, Boston could advance.

Overall edge to London on offense.

X-Factors

Thomas Harley – a true difference-maker from the backend

Mark Scheifele – point-per-game player who could swing games

With only one point in the standings separating the teams in the regular season, this matchup is too close to call so I will take Boston in 7 games and hope I am right!