The difference between a series with Calgary or the Sharks/Anaheim seems large to me. Assuming they don't view their size/brute advantage larger against an Edmonton, coaches and players and management should all be pushing for a win here heading into playoffs.
I wouldn't pick agains the Hawks even in cruise control however. 2 points would pass Pittsburgh (its a damn shame we folded 30 minutes early on the season against the avs)
Lots of young Hawks stating their final case for a playoff look.
I see Q playing 14-15 forwards in these playoffs, and up to 9 defenseman before its over. He has a nice mix he can insert to try different things against different match-ups opponents will try on us.
Desjardins might be the right guy one night, and Hinostroza could have his role to play another. I'm just saying there is a nice flavor available for Q between
Jurco/Hino/Desjardins/Hayden/Hartman
The top 6 is set, and those guys like moving up and down and playing with different looks. But Q can put pressure with about any flavor he wants on those bottom 2 lines, keep them fresh, keep them competing with each other, and I think carry us through.
Nashville is surely the best draw we can get, then Calgary/Edmonton. Blues, Anaheim, Sharks, Wild. In my opinion of potential matchup issues, because the last 2 can score through 4 lines against us. I view everyone else as mince meat this year. Just can't wait to get our skates on their throat and show how good the 2017 version is.