[ToewsFan]

When a team is at a psychological advantage against it's opponent, it more often then not goes on to win. A recent example would be the Anaheim Ducks advantage over the Calgary Flames. The Flames fought hard all series, but deep down, I truly don't believe the Flames ever believed that they would beat the Ducks in the playoffs.

The last time Calgary won a game in Anaheim was over a decade ago. Anaheim has dominated the Flames in every playoff series the two teams have faced. At the end of the day, the Ducks found a way to win. The same can be said about the Penguins-Capitals series. Sidney Crosby and the Penguins have always defeated the Capitals when it meant something. It is guaranteed to happen again. The Capitals will never admit so, but most do not believe they will defeat the mighty Penguins, even though they finished #1 overall in the standings. Washington has been through this road before, and has come up short just about every time.

The Oilers had an improbable run to the Cup final in 2006. They defeated Anaheim on the road to the finals. If the Oilers had any kind of losing streak since that time frame, it is because they were dreadful, not due to any psychological disadvantage. Obviously much accounts for winning a series, but I believe the Oilers and Penguins will dispose of their opponents in 6 games. I think it is clear that the Oilers truly believe they can win this series. I also think the Flames did not believe they could defeat the Ducks. Even though it was a sweep, I think if Calgary had exorcised it's demons in the 2015 playoffs, things may have been different.

Just my two cents.


Thoughts?