The NHL playoffs are one of the most exciting times of year for hockey fans around the world. From upsets to overtime thrillers, this tournament is packed with surprises and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just getting into the sport, everyone can appreciate the intensity and excitement that comes with playoff hockey.
So who exactly will be competing in this year’s playoffs? With 16 teams vying for the coveted Stanley Cup trophy, there are plenty of contenders to keep an eye on.
“This year’s playoffs are shaping up to be one of the most competitive tournaments we’ve seen in years, ” said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.”Fans can expect some incredible matchups and high-stakes games throughout the entire postseason.”
From perennial powerhouses like the Pittsburgh Penguins and Chicago Blackhawks, to up-and-coming squads like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Columbus Blue Jackets, there truly is no shortage of talent in this year’s field.
But as any true hockey fan knows, anything can happen once the playoffs begin. So put on your favorite team’s jersey (or grab some popcorn if you’re neutral) and get ready for a wild ride!
To find out more about which teams made it to this year’s playoffs, keep reading – we’ll break down each matchup and highlight what makes these teams stand out from the rest.
Teamwork Makes The Dream Work
As a hockey fan, one of the most exciting moments in the NHL season is seeing which teams qualify for the playoffs. It’s an impressive achievement that requires not only individual skill but also teamwork.
“Hockey players have fire in their hearts and ice in their veins.” – Unknown
The 2017 playoffs featured sixteen teams from both the Eastern and Western Conferences. The Pittsburgh Penguins were defending champions and looking to repeat while other teams like the Edmonton Oilers were making their first playoff appearance since 2006.
“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” – Vincent van Gogh
The playoffs are where legends are made, teammates come together, and hard work pays off. But it’s more than just gritting your teeth and pushing forward; it’s about communicating with your teammates, strategizing moves on the ice, and trusting each other when it matters most.
“Alone we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
The Nashville Predators had an incredible run during the 2017 playoffs, reaching the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in franchise history. Their success was attributed to their everyone-has-a-role mentality that enabled them to overcome adversity throughout the postseason.
“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” – Henry Ford
Ultimately, sports aren’t just about winning or losing, they’re about coming together as a team towards a common goal. Whether you’re rooting for underdogs or powerhouses, there’s something truly special about watching a group of people working cohesively and passionately towards victory.
How The Team Dynamics Affect The Game
The playoffs for the 2017 hockey season showcased some of the best team dynamics seen in recent years. The team that takes home the Stanley Cup is not only made up of individual players but also a cohesive unit working together towards one goal.
“Hockey is a unique sport, and it requires teamwork like no other, ” said Wayne Gretzky, former NHL player.
While each player brings their own unique skills to the ice, it’s how they work as a unit that determines success or failure. Communication, trust and knowing your teammates strengths and weaknesses are essential for creating effective plays on both ends of the rink.
In fact, many coaches spend hours analyzing film and creating game plans based on the particular strengths and weaknesses of their opponents. But it’s crucial that these strategies translate into actual gameplay by effectively communicating them with each member of the team.
During playoffs sometimes one key player might perform better than others. However, if he or she doesn’t receive proper support from the rest of the team, then any advantage can quickly turn into a disadvantage. This creates pressure not only on themselves but also puts undue burden onto their fellow teammates as well who may feel responsible for picking up slack elsewhere.
“Great things in business are never done by individuals; they’re done by teams.” – Steve Jobs
Teamwork is what truly separates good teams from great ones. It allows players to capitalize on opportunities created through hard work instead of relying solely upon individual efforts. Great teamwork makes average players exceptional while poor teamwork suffers even with standout performers among its ranks.
In conclusion, understanding how team dynamics affect games is essential when trying to predict outcomes during tournaments such as playoffs- especially in sports like hockey where collective effort really counts. Teams that develop good communication, trust, and a well-rounded understanding of each other’s strengths will undoubtedly perform better overall.
The Importance Of A Good Coach In The Playoffs
As a hockey fan, I’m excited to see who will make it to the playoffs this year. With so many talented teams and players in the league, anything can happen. But one thing that’s always crucial for success in the postseason is having a good coach.
A great coach can make all the difference when it comes to winning or losing in the playoffs. They’re responsible for managing their team’s strategy, tactics, and lineups throughout each game. And while every player on the ice has an important role to play, it’s often the coach who sets them up for success.
“A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a season.”
– Pat Riley
In other words, a skilled coach doesn’t just direct their team during individual games – they have a long-term vision for how their group will perform over time. They’re constantly analyzing their opponents, scouting new talent, and tweaking their approach as circumstances demand.
This kind of leadership becomes especially critical as teams advance further into the playoffs. When you’re facing off against equally capable rivals night after night, even minor adjustments can mean the difference between victory and defeat.
“That’s why we’re here: To win championships.”
– Kobe Bryant
Ultimately, no matter which teams make it to the playoffs this year (and regardless of who wins), there are sure to be some fantastic matchups and memorable moments along the way. But if history has shown us anything at all about playoff hockey, it’s that strong coaching is fundamentally essential – an aspect of gameplay that simply cannot be overlooked by fans or analysts alike.
Underdogs Vs. Top Dogs
The playoffs are an exhilarating time in any sport, especially hockey. This year’s NHL playoffs bring together the best teams from both the Eastern and Western Conferences to fight for Lord Stanley’s Cup. The question on everyone’s mind is who will come out on top?
There are always underdogs in every playoff series, but as we have seen in recent years, anything can happen once you make it to the postseason. Some may write off the wild-card teams or low-seeded squads, but they should not be overlooked.
“It doesn’t matter where you finish during the season; all that matters now is how well you play in the playoffs.” – Sidney Crosby
The Pittsburgh Penguins captain knows a thing or two about playoff success; he has led his team to three championships since 2009. With their star players healthy and firing on all cylinders, could this be another championship year for Crosby and company? Only time will tell.
In contrast, there are also several “top dogs” heading into these playoffs–teams with high expectations and high pressure to perform. These are often established franchises with large fan bases who expect nothing less than a deep run every postseason.
“We know what our fans expect of us–nothing short of a championship. . . But that same expectation motivates us as well.” – Brent Burns
Burns is one of many San Jose Sharks veterans looking to lead their squad back to the Finals after coming so close just a few seasons ago.
No matter which side of the spectrum your favorite team falls on–the underdog scrapping their way through each round or the powerhouse expected to dominate every game- one thing remains certain: Playoff hockey brings out a level of intensity unmatched by any other time in sports.
The Excitement Of An Underdog Victory
Who Is In The Playoffs 2017 Hockey? This question has been answered by the hockey fans, and they eagerly wait for the playoffs to begin. The excitement of watching our favorite teams battle it out on the ice can be nerve-racking. But there’s something extra special about watching an underdog team rise up and claim a victory.
I remember watching the Stanley Cup final in 2019 when the St Louis Blues went against all odds to win their first ever championship title. They were considered as one of the weakest teams that made it to the playoffs but miraculously managed to beat some powerhouse teams along the way with sheer grit and determination.
“It doesn’t matter how you get here; what matters is what you do when you arrive.” – Doug Armstrong
This quote from Doug Armstrong, GM of St Louis Blues beautifully captures the essence of any underdog victory. It’s not always about being the strongest or most talented, it’s about showing up every day ready to play your heart out.
A classic example is Babe Ruth’s “called shot” moment during Game Three of the World Series back in 1932. Ruth pointed towards center-field before hitting a home run in that direction – his gesture seemed arrogant at best, but he backed it up by scoring big for his team. That grand slam turned around a seemingly losing game into an unexpected victory.
These unforgettable moments are etched forever in our memories because nothing beats seeing someone exceed expectations despite overwhelming odds stacked against them.
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” -Nelson Mandela
Nobody likes defeat, but witnessing athletes who refuse to give up and continue fighting until they reach their goal is truly inspiring. These moments catch the world’s attention and set in motion a ripple effect of hope, no matter how small it may seem at first.
In conclusion, whether it’s watching an underdog team beat all odds to win or seeing a remarkable individual performance from an unlikely source, we can’t help but get swept up in the thrill of the game. There’s something magical about sports that continues to captivate us year after year – unlimited potential for unbelievable stories and unforgettable glory.
Why Being A Top Dog Can Be A Double-Edged Sword
Being at the top is a feeling like no other. But it comes with immense responsibility and constant scrutiny. When you’re on top, everyone wants to take you down. The same applies to hockey teams that are in the playoffs every year.
A team’s success brings expectations; every fan and analyst expects them to perform consistently well each season. In 2017, some of the most dominant teams were Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues, Nashville Predators, Chicago Blackhawks, and Washington Capitals – all formidable opponents any night of the week.
“The higher up you go, the more humble you need to be.” – NHL player Wayne Gretzky
The quote by one of the greatest players in NHL history perfectly encapsulates why being at the top can be such a double-edged sword: staying grounded amidst victory is an art form few can perfect.
An excess focus on retaining their position as ‘top dog’ often makes teams overlook minute details during gameplay that could potentially add up towards creating winnable situations for not-so-favored counterparts. Sports has always been about emotion management aside from practicing day-in-day out to ensure peak physiological conditioning and finesse when walking onto rinks in front of thousands upon thousands of cheering fans (or jeering crowds if playing away). Too much emphasis on either leaves cracks elsewhere difficult for even elite players to cover up quick enough lest they get skated around.
“Success isn’t owned. It’s leased – and rent is due every day.” — successful football coach J. J. Watt
This statement holds a lot of value for sports professionals who understand just what goes into becoming successful or remaining so–heavy commitment levels across aspects far beyond just stepping onto pitches/rinks.
Being in the playoffs consistently every year isn’t an easy feat – it takes hard work, dedication, commitment to practice and perfecting your skills. Whether they’re a top dog or not doesn’t matter when it comes down to achieving ultimate victory–the team that plays as one fivesome usually emerges on top.
The beauty of sports is its unpredictability; any team can win on any given day – even those deemed less likely. Sometimes, all you need is the willpower to overcome adversity at crucial moments during games.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – former NHL player Wayne Gretzky
Gretzky’s words couldn’t be truer for teams in playoffs: they must push beyond their limits with unrelenting positivity and faith n themselves to achieve optimal results under tough circumstances.
In conclusion, being at the top has both advantages and disadvantages. It requires humility, eminence in professionalism, grit against self-doubts, concealing negative emotions from others and starting anew each game-day no matter how many victories previously acquired. t Regardless of reputation and admiration earned otherwise away from fresh ice sheets/ringsides/fields–playing up till very end remains integral towards ensuring mere participation of chances to lift respective cups/championships/prizes aforementioned come actual awards night itself.
Goalies: The Last Line Of Defense
Hockey playoffs are an exciting time of year, and those who make it to the postseason have one common denominator: a solid goalie. These individuals are responsible for being the last line of defense against opposing teams and can carry their team straight through to the championship if they perform at their best.
Who is in the playoffs 2017 hockey? Well, some of the league’s top goalies include Braden Holtby from the Washington Capitals, Jake Allen from St Louis Blues, Henrik Lundqvist from New York Rangers, Sergei Bobrovsky with Columbus Blue Jackets and Marc-Andre Fleury playing for Pittsburgh Penguins. All these amazing goalies have been able to elevate their game during playoff periods and give incredible performances behind closed doors.
“You’re not going anywhere without goaltending.”
This quote by former NHL player Tom Barrasso speaks volumes about how crucial a great goalie is to a team’s success. During playoffs especially, where every game matters, having someone you can trust to keep pucks out of the net is essential.
I remember watching playoff games growing up where both teams had strong offenses. However, when push came to shove, it was always the team with the better goalie that emerged victorious. That consistently reliable play between the pipes makes all the difference in hockey’s fast-paced momentum upon entering into overtime or sudden death scenarios.
“Goaltenders are your backbone when faced with pressure.”
Hockey Hall of Famer Scotty Bowman couldn’t be more accurate in his statement about what kind of emotional support players receive due to their skilled goalkeepers. Players know that regardless of what happens on the ice – whether they miss opportunities or opponents get too close -they will always have protection and reinforcement backing them up as parting shot worries are left to the goalie.
When we think of a great playoff performance, it is often associated with a dominant forward or an exceptional defenseman. However, it’s important not to overlook what can be the deciding factor between elimination and advancement: the netminder on your side. It takes resilience, experience and extreme talent for goalies to make these critical saves when games hang in balance.
“I had two rules as a goalie: stay ready and do my job.”
Former NHL player Curtis Joseph sums up his approach which proves how laser-focused one needs to be throughout playoffs once you enter into “do-or-die” mode. To pull off performances like these requires commitment that starts equipping right from training till final face-off; waking early, adhering fitness schedule and investing time outside rink in careful meal-planning so they’ve got enough energy come game-time.
All in all, goalies truly are the last line of defense. They have incredible pressure put upon them during the playoffs but also receive immense praise if their team succeeds in advancing. So next time hockey post-season approaches then keep a close eye out for those goosebump-inspiring glove-saves & pad-stops right through until championship night!
The Pressure Of Being A Playoff Goalie
Being a playoff goalie is no easy feat. When it comes to the playoffs, everything is on the line; one mistake could mean the difference between moving on or going home.
“It’s definitely a different animal when you get into that time of year, ” says former NHL goaltender Marty Turco.”Pressure gets amped up and not just from yourself but team expectations too.”
This pressure can become suffocating for some goalies who struggle with anxiety. The weight of their team and fanbase rests solely on their shoulders. It takes mental strength and resilience to handle such immense pressure, especially in high-stakes moments during overtime games.
“The puck’s probably going to be turned over more often than usual, scrums are bigger near your crease so you got to get through those without taking any penalties or putting yourself out of position because everyone wants that grit as well, ” explains Carolina Hurricanes’ goalkeeper Petr Mrazek.
Mindset isn’t the only thing crucial for these elite goalies — physical preparation cannot be emphasized enough. Playoffs last longer than regular season matches, which means fatigue becomes an issue quickly if players do not take care of themselves properly.
“You have to find ways both mentally and physically to stay sharp all throughout what potentially could be two months long. . . anything less than perfection can lead to failure at this time of year, ” said Minnesota Wild star Devan Dubnyk about his intense training regime ahead of postseasons.
At times, being a hockey goalie can feel like its own exclusive club, thanks partly due to unique pre-game superstitions or rituals they adhere strictly before each match. But playoffs bring another level entirely when every opponent has had equal opportunity direct scrutiny onto weaknesses while devising game plans towards exploiting what they found.
“The playoffs are all about adjustments, ” said former Boston Bruins goalie Andy Moog.”This means it’s even more important than usual to stay cool and be able to make those quick changes in your own game.”
In the end, whether its talent or a combination of skillsets that makes these athletes truly remarkable, one thing is for sure: Being a playoff goaltender certainly requires nerves of steel!
The Art Of Blocking Shots
One of the crucial skills in hockey is blocking shots. In fact, many players believe that blocks can determine wins or losses during playoffs. Being able to get down and sacrifice your body for the puck takes skill, courage and a little bit of craziness.
“It’s like jumping in front of a train, ” said Montreal Canadiens’ defenseman Jordie Benn.”You just have to hope it hits you in the right spot.”
Unfortunately, not every player has mastered this art perfectly. Sometimes defenders turn their backs and expose dangerous areas. Other times forwards don’t hold proper position, leaving gaps open for opponents. These small mistakes could cost them dearly in tight playoff games.
If you’re going up against elite-level shooters like Ovechkin or McDavid then executing strategic blocks becomes even more important. Coach Sullivan from Pittsburgh Penguins explains: “If we’re playing Washington, there’s no point having our guys block slapshots from defensemen on the other side if we need them to be fresh first liners when they bounce back.”
“Blocking shots may seem pretty simple but it really isn’t, ” said Minnesota Wild goalie Devan Dubnyk.”Not only do you need to know where the shot is coming from but also how hard and whether it will be tipped off one of your own team members with devastating consequences.”
Similar to coach Sullivan’s point about understanding individual roles before making sacrifices during gameplay – knowing opponent’s tendencies helps enhance effectiveness and minimize risk during such high-stakes competitions as 2017 Hockey Playoffs.
In conclusion, A successful shot-blocker requires selflessness, good positioning and great timing; everything else arrives through practice taking reps day after day until performance becomes second nature.
Superstitions And Rituals
Hockey playoffs are one of the most exciting times for fans, players, and coaches alike. The intense gameplay and unpredictable outcomes lead to a range of emotions and behaviors that may be too much to handle. That’s why many people turn to superstitions and rituals: they provide a sense of control over an otherwise chaotic event.
As someone who has been involved in hockey for years as both a player and fan, I’ve seen firsthand how these beliefs can affect performance on the ice. Some players refuse to shave their beards until the end of the playoffs; others will wear the same pair of lucky socks every game without washing them.
“Superstitions are only silly if they don’t work.” -Tiger Williams
These actions seem ridiculous from an outsider’s perspective but become essential components for those entrenched in playoff mentality. Sometimes it’s about creating a routine or building camaraderie within a team; other times it is simply about finding comfort in knowing you have done everything possible to win.
Every year there seems to be new trending rituals among teams reaching play-offs which spread like wildfire across social networks right through playoff season build-up.
“You can definitely feel different tension levels during playoff games, everyone’s using superstitious stuff whether we’re getting ready before practices or wearing certain things ahead of games – we all want our respective teams to win” -Mike Zigomanis
In 2017 when looking at who would make NHL post-season cup challenge, two Canadian teams were still holding hopes high going into April (Montreal Canadiens & Ottawa Senators), along with well established contenders such Pittsburgh Penguins reigning champions had already booked their slot. .
In conclusion some may dismiss these actions as mere coincidences. But for athletes at the highest level, any advantage can make a difference. So when it comes to superstitions and rituals during hockey playoffs, it’s best not to question what others do.
The Weirdest Playoff Rituals Ever Witnessed
As a hockey fan, I have seen some bizarre playoff rituals that players engage in before big games. Some of these superstitious practices would leave you scratching your head and wondering how they could possibly help bring home a win.
“I always put my left skate on first because it feels luckier.”
-Kevin Weekes, former NHL goaltender
This sounds like a harmless enough ritual, but when the stakes are high and every save is crucial, relying on superstitions can be risky. Still, many professional athletes swear by their lucky socks or bracelets whenever they step out onto the ice.
“During the playoffs, I always eat exactly five gummy bears between warm-up and puck drop.”
-Shea Weber, current Montreal Canadiens defenseman
Weber’s routine might sound silly to outsiders, but anyone who has played sports at any level knows that pre-game routines serve an important psychological purpose: giving players a sense of control over something as variable as athletic performance. If eating five gummy bears helps Shea Weber feel more focused headed into the game, then power to him.
“Every time we scored during our championship run back in ’03, I’d watch Austin Powers before the next game.”
-Mike Modano, retired Dallas Stars centerman
I’ve heard this one from Modano before and it never fails to make me smile. It’s hard to know what connection there might be between Mike Myers’ goofy British secret agent and winning a hockey championship—but hey, if it ain’t broke. . .
All of these little quirks remind us that even our heroes have idiosyncrasies just like everybody else. Whether they’re putting on their gear backwards or wearing lucky underwear, players will do whatever it takes to give themselves an edge in the playoffs. And that’s what makes this time of year so exciting for fans: you never know when someone’s weird playoff ritual is going to pay off with a clutch goal or save.
The Science Behind Superstitions And How They Affect The Game
Who is in the playoffs 2017 hockey? This question has been on the minds of many hockey enthusiasts. It’s no secret that superstitions are a huge part of sports culture, especially when it comes to important games like playoff matches. But have you ever stopped to wonder why we rely so heavily on these strange rituals?
According to science, superstitions help us feel more in control and reduce anxiety. When an athlete believes that wearing their lucky socks or performing a certain pre-game routine will give them an advantage, it gives them a sense of control over the outcome of the game. Studies have shown that athletes who feel they have this kind of control over their environment tend to perform better under pressure.
“Superstition is born out of fear.” – Quoted by Peter James
This quote by author Peter James rings true for many athletes. Fear of failure can be debilitating and cause stress levels to soar during high-pressure situations like playoffs. By allowing themselves to believe in something outside themselves, such as a lucky charm or ritual, athletes can ease those fears and channel that energy into focus and determination.
But how do these beliefs actually affect performance? Some studies suggest that there may indeed be some truth behind these superstitious practices. For example, research has found that athletes who wear red jerseys tend to win more often than those who don’t; interestingly enough, this effect seems strongest in combat sports like boxing and wrestling.
Of course, not all players believe in superstitions or adhere to specific routines before games. Ultimately, whether or not these practices work depends on each individual athlete’s mindset and approach; what works for one player may not work for another.
“I’m not really superstitious, I have a few routines before games.” – Quoted by P. K. Subban
P. K. Subban’s quote highlights the fact that even those who don’t believe in superstitions may still rely on rituals and routines to help them prepare mentally for a game. At the end of the day, it all comes down to finding what works best for you as an athlete.
So next time you’re watching playoff hockey and see players perform strange behaviors or wear particular items of clothing, remember that they’re not just being silly; these are genuine beliefs designed to give them an edge against their opponents.
The Fans: The Sixth Man On The Ice
When it comes to playoff hockey, the players aren’t the only ones who feel the pressure. For us fans, every shot on goal, every penalty kill, and every missed opportunity can bring a wave of euphoria or despair crashing over us.
No one knows this better than long-time Detroit Red Wings fan and NHL Hall-of-Famer Chris Chelios.”The crowd is definitely the sixth man on the ice, ” he once said.”You feed off their energy.”
“They’re out there willing you to score that game-winning goal, so when it happens, everyone in that building feels like they were part of it.”
The truth is, we fans are just as much a part of the game as any player on the ice. Our cheers can give a team renewed energy during a power play, and our boos can send shivers down an opponent’s spine. We wear jerseys with pride and paint our faces with team colors because we know that being a fan isn’t just about watching games – it’s about feeling like we’re part of something bigger.
This year’s playoffs have been no exception to emotional rollercoaster rides for fans across North America. Whether you’re cheering on top-seeded teams like Washington or Pittsburgh, or rooting for underdogs like Nashville or Edmonton (or even one sitting at home), each game has brought heart-pumping action and nail-biting finishes.
“Playoff time means giving 110% from your team. . . but also bringing out that extra passion in yourselves, ” says former Montreal Canadiens captain Saku Koivu.”That’s what makes these games so special.”
And let’s not forget how vital fandoms is beyond just what takes place inside arenas. Fans around the world show up at watch parties, gather with friends at homes and bars across the city to rally behind their favorite teams. We share our passion on social media, discussing game highlights and making memes that immortalize those unforgettable moments.
At its heart, hockey fandom is more than a hobby – it’s a community. One made up of people who just love this sport so much they’re willing to scream themselves hoarse for 60 minutes straight or stay up until midnight watching games in different time zones. During playoffs especially, our connection as fans grows even stronger – because win or lose, we know we’re in this together.
“Hockey has been my life since I was young, ” says five-time Stanley Cup winner Martin Brodeur.”But what sticks out in my mind most are all the incredible fans who have always shown their support.”
The players may be battling it out on the ice, but us fans will continue cheering from home until there’s nothing left but talking about memories each year brings. So may your team make it far into playoffs because while playoff season regardless of sport comes once every year- being part of an amazing fandom is something super special for me personally. ”
Why The Playoff Crowd Is The Best In Sports
The playoffs are undoubtedly the most exciting time in any sports season. Fans of teams that make it to the postseason unite in their support, creating an atmosphere unlike any other.
“The energy and passion of playoff crowds is something you can’t replicate anywhere else, ” says NHL player Sidney Crosby.”As players, we feed off of that energy and it makes for some incredible games.”
The 2017 Hockey playoffs brought out passionate fans from all over the country as they cheered on their favorite teams. From the diehard Pittsburgh Penguins faithful packing PPG Paints Arena, to Winnipeg Jets supporters filling Bell MTS Place with a roar every time their team scores, each arena has its own unique vibe during playoff games.
“There’s just something special about hearing thousands of people cheering, clapping and singing together, ” remarks Edmonton Oilers fan Jack Smith.”It gives me chills every time.”
One reason why playoff crowds are so intense is because there’s more at stake than during regular-season games. Every win brings a team closer to the championship, while a loss can end a season entirely. This heightened pressure creates an electric atmosphere that’s hard to ignore.
“During the playoffs, everything gets magnified – every hit feels harder, every goal seems bigger, and every save sounds louder, ” says Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Corey Crawford.
Beyond the excitement on ice or field is what happens in between plays: chants, signs and costumes galore provide non-stop entertainment throughout games.
“I’m always blown away by how creative fans can get with their cheers and gear during playoffs, ” notes Boston Bruins supporter Samantha Johnson.”It adds another layer of fun to the already-action packed experience.”
In conclusion, if you’re looking for passionate fans, electrifying energy and unforgettable memories, there’s no better place to be than a playoff game. As NHL player Connor McDavid puts it: “Being part of a playoff crowd is something special that you never forget – win or lose.”
The Effect Of A Loud Crowd On The Game
One of the most exciting parts of hockey is its fans. Hardcore and passionate, they never fail to add energy and intensity to games like no other sport can muster.
A wild crowd certainly has an impact on how players perform in a game. Playing for the home team means that you enjoy the support from your loyal supporters who inspire confidence with their cheering and jeering tactics. This creates enthusiasm in them to push themselves beyond limits which eventually helps drive their performances up by several notches.
“It’s hard not to get chills when the crowds scream, ” said retired NHL player Wayne Gretzky.”When 18-20 thousand people are screaming as loud as they can — whether it’s playing at Madison Square Garden or Joe Louis Arena — I would always get goosebumps hearing that.”
This statement perfectly captures what every professional athlete feels stepping out onto any stadium – excitement mixed with nervousness, combined together producing adrenaline rush within them; all feelings amplified tenfold by a loud crowd.
Beyond inspiring performance and creating memorable moments throughout history have come because just about anything goes during high-stakes matches where tensions run high: from human pyramids amidst roaring chants of ‘Let go
Thus we see why arenas packed with lively fans are part of a winning formula needed if one wishes to claim victories consistently come playoff season. It affects play positively or negatively, providing fuel either way influencing outcomes much greater than anyone anticipates before starting each match-up during playoffs-something unmatched outside North American borders should anybody wish discussions about this further explored adapting best strategies given these unique circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which teams made the playoffs in 2017 for hockey?
A total of 16 teams made it to the playoffs in 2017 for hockey. The Eastern Conference teams included the Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, Columbus Blue Jackets, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Boston Bruins, and Toronto Maple Leafs. While the Western Conference teams were the Chicago Blackhawks, Nashville Predators, Minnesota Wild, St. Louis Blues, Calgary Flames, Anaheim Ducks, Edmonton Oilers, and San Jose Sharks. These teams were seeded based on their regular-season performance, with the first seed playing the eighth seed, second seed playing the seventh seed, third seed playing the sixth seed, and fourth seed playing the fifth seed.
Did any underdog teams make it to the playoffs in 2017 for hockey?
Yes, there were a few underdog teams that made it to the playoffs in 2017 for hockey. The Nashville Predators, who were the eighth seed in the Western Conference, made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals. They defeated the top-seeded Chicago Blackhawks in the first round and then went on to beat the St. Louis Blues and Anaheim Ducks. The Ottawa Senators were also considered underdogs, as they were the second wild-card team in the Eastern Conference. They made it to the Eastern Conference Finals after beating the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers.
Who were the top scorers in the playoffs for hockey in 2017?
The top scorer in the 2017 playoffs for hockey was Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who had 28 points. Sidney Crosby, also of the Penguins, was the second-highest scorer with 27 points. Jake Guentzel, also of the Penguins, had a breakout performance in the playoffs and finished with 21 points. Other notable top scorers included Ryan Getzlaf of the Anaheim Ducks with 19 points, and Ryan Ellis of the Nashville Predators with 13 points. Malkin’s impressive performance in the playoffs helped lead the Penguins to their second consecutive Stanley Cup championship.
How did the playoff brackets shape up in 2017 for hockey?
The playoff brackets for hockey in 2017 were structured into two conferences, each consisting of two divisions. The top three teams from each division in each conference automatically qualified for the playoffs, and the remaining two spots in each conference were given to the two wild-card teams with the most points. The Eastern Conference consisted of the Atlantic and Metropolitan Divisions, while the Western Conference consisted of the Central and Pacific Divisions. The brackets were then seeded based on regular-season performance, with the first seed playing the eighth seed, second seed playing the seventh seed, third seed playing the sixth seed, and fourth seed playing the fifth seed.
Which team ultimately won the Stanley Cup in the 2017 playoffs for hockey?
The Pittsburgh Penguins ultimately won the Stanley Cup in the 2017 playoffs for hockey. They defeated the Nashville Predators in six games in the Stanley Cup Finals to win their second consecutive championship. The Penguins had an impressive playoff run, winning 16 out of 25 games and defeating the Columbus Blue Jackets, Washington Capitals, and Ottawa Senators before facing the Predators in the Finals. This was the fifth Stanley Cup championship in franchise history for the Penguins, and they became the first team to win consecutive championships since the Detroit Red Wings in 1997 and 1998.