This series is a toss up. Not sure why Carolina is the odds on favorite. They got bitch slapped by Florida last year. Year before that they lost to a lesser version of the Rangers. The Canes are well coached and give 100% through out the year. The Rangers coasted through much of the year and still finished ahead. Don't think this series will be any different. Carolina will probably buzz around and out play the Rangers for large stretches. The Rangers will do what they do and cash in on unstoppable tic tac toe like plays. Eventually, the Canes will slow down and Igor will take care of the rest. Rangers in 7
Carolina struggled to begin the season and turned the season around after their Canadian road trip in November. We start out like we've been playing since December you're looking at home ice for Carolina this series.
Carolina easily has the better D and goalies are even. Yes, Igor is great but Freddie can be great too when he's on...and he's been on since he's returned from his blood clot. Our backup is not to shabby either.
Florida did not bitch slap us. What series were you watching? Bobrovsky stood on his head that series. It could've easily gone the other way.
This is not the same Carolina team from 2 years ago and it's not the same Rangers team from two years ago.
I don't put too much stock in prior series because changes happen such as trades and new players coming in.
We didn't have Guentzel, Orlov, Burns, a more dynamic Jarvis, Kuznetsov and Andersen did not play that series at all.
The only thing I agree with you on is:
Yes, this series is a toss up.
Also, Carolina will skate circles around the Rangers D. Good luck in trying to contain it for a 7 game series.