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"They are a team of destiny" - Paul Bissonnette predicts outcome of New York Rangers vs Florida Panthers Eastern Conference finals
In a video post shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Spittin' Chiclets, Paul Bissonnette offered his prediction for the Eastern Conference finals between the New York Rangers and the Florida Panthers. Bissonnette acknowledged the strengths of both teams, emphasizing the home ice advantage in what he predicts will be a close series for both teams.
"I agree with a lot of what you're saying, and I think home ice advantage is going to play such a massive factor," Bissonnette said.
"I think it's going to go the distance and reach seven games. From position to position, overall, Florida is the better team on paper. But it comes back to that magic and the fact that they were able to win last round without Fox playing to his full capability."
Bissonnette pointed out the importance of top-tier performances from the NYR's key players.
"The high-end talent is going to have to show up for the Rangers because, when you look at the bottom six, Florida has the advantage there. If those guys aren't performing, they've got other options as well.
"They're like Dallas—they basically have five lines. So it's going to be a hell of a series. If you could have handpicked the matchup for the Eastern Conference Finals, you'd want to see these two teams go at it," Bissonnette added
Despite his evident respect for the Panthers, Bissonnette ultimately backed the NYR to win the series in seven games, despite his personal feelings toward the team.
"I'm still riding with the Rangers as much as I hate their guts. They are a team of destiny. Rangers in seven," Bissonnette said.
This prediction drops right after NYR's victory over Carolina Hurricanes. Chris Kreider's third-period hat trick propelled them past the Hurricanes on May 17, 2024, securing their spot in the Eastern Conference finals.
Take a look at the full video:
New York Rangers’ Alexis Lafreniere stood out in the series against Carolina
Alexis Lafreniere, the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NHL draft, who is in his fourth season with the NYR, scored four goals in the series against the Carolina Hurricanes. He achieved a career-high of 28 goals, 29 assists and 57 points this season.
Playing alongside Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck, Lafreniere has been solid in the Rangers' journey to the Eastern Conference final.
Coach Peter Laviolette praised his skill, work ethic and growing confidence.
“That line has been extremely productive for us, and he’s a big part of that,” Laviolette said.
This season, he ranked fourth in goals and fifth in points on the team. In the playoffs, his line has contributed 35 points, with Lafreniere adding four goals and six assists.
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