Offense The Story Early On In NHL Playoffs

April 17, 2014; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Sharks center Joe Thornton (19) is congratulated for scoring a goal against Los Angeles Kings goalie Jonathan Quick (32) during the first period in game one of the first round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at SAP Center at San Jose. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

The cliche says that defense wins championships, and if that is truly the case then so far the New York Rangers have to be considered the front runners.  After 2 nights of NHL playoffs action, it is the offense that is trumping the defense this spring.  In the 7 games so far, there have been 55 goals scored, or an average of 7.8 goals per game.

Have we suddenly been transported to the mid-80’s where every game is an Edmonton – Chicago tornado of goals?

The only game that has had less than 7 total goals was Thursday’s Rangers-Flyers series opener, and that had a mere 5 goals.

It has been an exciting start to the post-season, but don’t expect that to continue.  There are many reasons for that, not the least of which it that player’s arms will be getting sore from lifting them above their heads so much and having the blood rush out of them.

Its great for all the poolies out there that are racking up points early on, but it is sure to give a lot of coaches, even the ones on the winning side of these run and gun games, a lot more grey hair.

It will settle down and become the normal grind where goals are at a premium, because the goalies and the systems are simply too good. But for the time being enjoy the explosive offense while it lasts.