This is a 10* WEST COAST GAME OF THE MONTH on the Minnesota.

Minnesota took two of three in the regular season, and we think this opening contest favors the Wild as well.

Minnesota had an up and down year though, while the younger Canucks were putting together their best campaign in on a long time.

Minnesota though comes in healthy with a good mix of old and young talent. The Canucks just don't have much experience and in this pressure packed and weird scenario, I definitely think that favors the stronger Wild team.

Vancouver's top two lines are powerful, but Minnesota has four more well rounded lines. I believe this will help in the Wild's favor today as well.

But many of the Canucks' players will be seeing playoff hockey for the first time in their lives.

At a pick-em, we're backing the more experienced line-up in Game 1.

Good luck, NP