Carolina at New Jersey

New Jersey was hot with the key word being "was." They entered the series against Carolina having won 15 straight. Well, I guess that "hot" bug jumped over to Carolina in game one. The Hurricanes have won the first three games and they are now on a seven game winning streak. No way the Devils lose this must-win backs-against-the-wall game at home, right? Wrong. I like Carolina in the big dog role here. I think they have a legitimate shot at the sweep. Carolina is now 23-13 vs. winning teams this season and 20-9 on the road (yes, on the road!) vs. teams that allow opponents to 29+ shots on goal with a 17%+ power play conversion. Therein lies New Jersey's problem against Carolina. The Devils allow 19% power play conversion on the season and it's gotten worse in the playoffs. They've allowed 10 of 40 (25%). Carolina can score in droves and they are putting in 29% of their powerplays this playoff season. If that continues in this game, New Jersey is toast.