BONUS SEMI-FINAL PREDICTIONS

The following are some semi-final predictions that found their way to the interweb after our Thursday deadline.

Rick1042, McKeen’s Hockey
Saint John in six
Every game will probably be a hard fought battle but the Sea Dogs defense will make the difference. I expect a big playoff series for Peterson by the way.

Moncton in seven
Will be in Drummondville to catch game one and i really think this will be one wild playoff series. I think the Wildcats have really come together as a team, especially offensively. Defensively, they are lucky to have David Savard, who i think can shut down any forward in the Q.

Willy Palov, Chronicle Herald
Victoriaville in seven

But what could be a major swing factor is the difference in penalty killing. The Tigres led the league at 85.8 per cent, while the Sea Dogs were surprisingly mediocre at 78.8 per cent, good for 10th overall.

I’m reluctant to bet against the Sea Dogs because I really like their team, but with special teams being so important at this time of year, I’m inclined to give some extra weight to Victoriaville’s edge in both categories.

Moncton in seven

Neil Hodge, Times & Transcript
Victoriaville in Six

Saint John finished first overall in the league, but there are question marks about whether this club is built for playoff success. The Sea Dogs weren't tested seriously enough in the opening two rounds to provide any answers.

Saint John has star veteran defencemen in Yann Sauve and Simon Despres, but will they get worn down playing significant minutes against a strong opponent in a long series? The Sea Dogs have quality young defencemen, but can they stand up to the test that awaits them?

Moncton in Seven

Hodge’s comments got one Saint John fan upset:

Nathan White, Keep Your Stick on the Ice
Saint John in six

Overall, Victoriaville has to be considered slightly weaker than the other remaining teams. But two words give them a chance to go all the way: Kevin Poulin. The New York Islanders prospect has been the top goalie in the playoffs, posting an unreal .943 save percentage and 1.86 goals-against average.

Ultimately, the Dogs have just too many weapons for the Tigres to handle.

Moncton in seven