Blood, sweat and tears cover the ice after a hard-fought 82-game season. Only the top 16 teams make their way into the beloved Stanley Cup Playoffs to fight for Lord Stanley's Cup. The players put their best efforts forth in the regular season, but now they are pouring their hearts and souls into each shift. The extreme levels of intensity, energy and excitement are easily passed on from players to fans. The Stanley Cup Playoffs are the best playoffs in all of sports, so you don't want to miss out.
1. The contenders
The start of the playoffs is like the start of a new season, but now every team is in it to win it. Each matchup contains its fair share of highly skilled players, so any team has the chance to move on to the next round, regardless of what their regular season looked like.
2. The physicality
Each puck possession could be a crucial one, so the players need to do whatever it takes to keep opponents from getting the puck back. The more highly skilled players also have targets on their backs; if a big hitter can sit in the box for two to five minutes in exchange for knocking a top scorer out of the game, why not show some physicality?
3. The fighting
Each game adds more frustration and tensity to the mix, especially while down in the series. Fighting to make their dreams come true, the players won't let anything stand in their way. Any words or actions can send them over the top, and the only solution is to drop the gloves and throw some punches. Is there really a better way to relieve stress than knocking out some teeth?
4. The teamwork
Teamwork makes the dream work. One of the most important parts of the game is team chemistry, and, throughout the playoffs, we see teammates connecting better than ever. Movement of the puck is crucial, so it helps to always know where to move the puck. The accuracy of the no-look passes make it seem as if some players have an extra set of eyes on the back of their heads.
5. The fans
Some fans will do anything to get their teams an advantage. The Vancouver Green Men are the most widely known mischief-causing fan group. Luckily for opponents, these two crazy guys won't be making an appearance this post-season.
6. The miracles
There are no words for some of the events that take place in the Playoffs. For example, when Patrick Kane was the only one in the building who knew that he scored the cup-winning goal. Hearing the cheers of the players over the silence of the packed arena was truly something remarkable.
7. The celebrating
A hard fought regular season, and an even harder fought post-season. Your team has done it--they won the cup. You and your friends are just as excited as the players are on the ice. Half the time, you aren't even watching the celebration because you're too overwhelmed with joy.
8. The hoist
The best players in the history of hockey have lifted this cup, and watching each member of your favorite team lift it will send chills down your spine. This is the moment that each of these men, and many more, dream of. History has been made. Let's go Hawks!
