The Los Angeles Kings begin the defense of their Stanley Cup with a matchup against the St. Louis Blues. The Kings have faced the Blues three times in playoff history and have only won once; that victory came in last year's second round sweep en route to winning the franchise's first cup.
The Kings are largely the same team that won the Cup a year ago, but there is one major difference: the play of number one goalie Jonathan Quick. In 2011-12, Quick ended an 82 game season with a 1.95 GAA, a .929 save percentage and 10 shutouts. In the playoffs he won the Conn Smythe trophy for playoff MVP after posting a 1.41 GAA and .946 save percentage. He also pitched three shutouts in that span. This season, the keeper has posted a 2.45 GAA and .902 save percentage in 37 games; his record includes 18 wins, 13 losses, and four overtime losses. He only recorded one shutout all season. Whereas he was the catalyst and MVP for the team a year ago, he has been inconsistent this year. Fortunately, Kings backup Jonathan Bernier has been stellar with a 1.88 GAA and a .922 save percentage in 14 games; he also had one shutout. Should Quick falter, it would not be surprising to see Bernier take over.
Meanwhile the Blues have seen their goaltending situation clarify itself. With Jaroslav Halak injured, Brian Elliott has taken over the number one position. Elliott actually got off to a tough start this year and was demoted before returning to prominence to close out the season. He had a tough run in the playoffs last year against Los Angeles and will likely look to redeem himself.
St. Louis Wins If... The team pressures the Kings' defense and goaltending. The Blues also need to play the defense that has earned their spot and become a major part of their identity. Brian Elliott will also need to continue his stellar play.
Los Angeles Wins If... Jonathan Quick plays like he did a year ago. The Kings are poised to make a run at a repeat but they need their central piece to play up to his potential.
Predictions: The Kings take down the Blues but it will not be as easy as it was last season; 4-2 Kings. LA has won eight straight against St. Louis, including three this season and last season's playoff sweep.
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