The Anaheim Ducks became instant contenders last off-season when they picked up Chris Pronger, teaming him with Scott Neidermayer to create the most talented defense in the league. The Minnesota Wild have been a dark horse in the West for the past few years, and are constantly one of the best coached teams in the league. This year's playoffs are packed with great first round match ups.
The Wild finished 7th in the West, largely due to their top star Marion Gaborik missing extensive time during the regular season. With Gaborik healthy and playing well, a few goals could keep the Wild in this series.
Goaltending is a question in Minnesota. Backstrom has been thrust into the starting role, and played like he doesn't want to lose it. The Ducks Giguere became a household name with his dominant playoff play, Backstrom would like to do the same.
Jacques Lemaire gets everything out of the Wild, but the Anaheim Ducks are just too talented through their lineup to make this early of an exit. I'm picking the Ducks in 5.
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