8* play on the Chicago Blackhawks.

The defending Stanley Cup champs are on the ropes, trailing St Louis 3-1 in this first round series. All of the games have been close, and Chicago probably deserved to win Game 1. I think this series is far from over, and my money is on the Hawks to force a Game 6.


Here are my keys to the game:

1. The Return Of Duncan Keith - The reigning Conn Smythe Trophy winner returned from a six-game suspension in Game 2, and he played over 30 minutes, scoring a goal and an assist. He took an untimely penalty in Game 4, and he should be motivated to perform better here tonight.

2. Experience - The Hawks have won nine of their last 13 Conference Quarterfinals games while the Blues have lost nine of their last 13, and let's not forget that Chicago is the reigning Stanley Cup champion.

3. X-Factor - Patrick Kane led the NHL in scoring during the regular season, and he has four points in four games so far in the post-season.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Blackhawks (8*)