Predators and Penguins Advance in Stanley Cup Playoffs

The possibility of a rematch of last season’s Stanley Cup Finals, or a third consecutive Cup for the Pittsburgh Penguins, remains viable as both Pittsburgh and the Nashville Predators advanced to the second round of the playoffs. Each team closed out its first round series four games to two on April 22 .

In Philadelphia, the Penguins beat the Flyers 8-5 on Jake Guentzel’s four goals. He also had an assist for a very productive five point day, Philadelphia’s Sean Couturier also had a five point game, with three goals and two assists. Pittsburgh scored often against Philadelphia, with a total of 23 goals in the six games.

The Penguins will play the winner of the Washington—Columbus series in the second round.

In Denver, the Predators shut out the Colorado Avalanche 5-0. Colorado can be pleased with its season even with the elimination; the Avalanche went from the NHL’s worst record in 2016-7 to making the playoffs this year.

Nashville will play Winnipeg in Round 2. The Jets earlier eliminated Minnesota in five games.