It’s the Battle of California, only a different version than what we’re used to. Usually Los Angeles figures into the equation thanks to their playoff success over the last few seasons, but this time it’s Anaheim vs. San Jose for only the second time ever and the first time in nine years. That’s sort of hard to believe considering how successful both franchises have been in the salary cap era, but I’m sure the two combatants will make up for lost time in this series.



This is one of the closest series in the first round and one that many analysts are having a difficult time getting a read on it. Anaheim is the favourite, but there are plenty of reasons to think San Jose can win. Whoever does take this one might just be the favourite to come out of a wide-open Pacific division.



The Numbers



Looking at the chart above makes it a bit difficult to see what makes Anaheim the favourite in this series from an analytical perspective. The...