Stanley Cup Playoffs Conference Championships

Epic battles have been waged in the east, the long drawn out slaying of heroes, and the bizarre surges of the unexpected. All who should be weary, are too late. The damage is done. The odds have been beaten again and again as though the dice thrown have inverted themselves. Those who saw a clear path have seen those paths suddenly erased. There will be a new champion this year.

Eastern Conference Championship: Montreal Canadiens and the Philadelphia Flyers

The ghosts of many winters passed have been rising from the streets of old Montreal. They can feel it. Others saw the odds stacked against them, but they saw opportunity for glory and never missed a beat. They have defeated the Giants and the Heroes as though possessed. Their opponents may be stunned, but Les Habitants are merely looking forward to the next to fall.

The Flying bandits of Philadelphia have accomplished the seeming impossible. With their numbers down, on their last desperate breath, hope all but a memory, they have clawed their way back. Many would have called them mad or dim to even think about this day and yet here they are. They know more than any that it's not over till it's over and they will claw and tear and rip and scrape and do whatever it takes until they have been taken down for good.

Montreal Canadiens in 6.

Western Conference Championship: The San Jose Sharks and The Chicago Blackhawks

Apparently machines do not function very well in water. Corroded by rust and torn apart by vicious fish the winged wheel has sunk for good. But the fish are still hungry. Their sense of blood is stronger than ever, they can feel it in the water. Where will the next meal come from? They circle in anticipation ready to strike.

The tribes prepare for turbulent waters. The Canucks had been an annoying tick, now it is time to go fishing. Boats prepared, spears ready there will be blood in the water, but who's? Can they handle the furious strong fish or will theirs be the next boat to sink? They must bate their hooks carefully and hold on for dear life, spears ready, they will not have many chances and only those who persevere will survive.

Sharks in 6