San Jose at Vancouver

At this point, nearly all of Canada is hoping for a Vancouver Stanley Cup win this year, and I think they move one step closer to that with a win in the opener vs. San Jose here. Both of these teams had 3-0 leads in playoff series this year only to see them evaporate, requiring game 7 wins to get here. These teams are very close and this should be a great series. But home ice advantage is going to be huge. I really like taking the top team at home in game one. This place is gonna be rocking and the Canucks are 31-17 in this building this season, winning by nearly a goal per game on average. Over their last five games, Vancouver's defense has been great (as it has been all season), allowing just 2.5 goals per game. San Jose's defense, in contrast has faltered, allowing 3.2 per game over their last five. The Sharks' strength this season has instead been offense. But, Vancouver can handle that. The Canucks are 26-13 this season vs. good offensive teams (those averaging 2.9+ goals per game). They are also 38-18 vs. winning teams this year. Vancouver is well rested and should be ready for this one. Since last season, the Canucks are an incredible 14-2 when playing with 3+ days of rest. Take the Canucks to win game one.