Underdogs Rise: Wild and Kings Surprise in Early Playoff Action

PC: UPI Starting Strong

The Stanley Cup playoffs have begun, and four teams have taken an early lead in their respective series. The Bruins, Hurricanes, Wild, and Kings are off to a strong start as they battle for the ultimate prize in hockey.

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The Boston Bruins took an early lead in their series against the Washington Capitals, winning the first two games at home. Goaltender Tuukka Rask has been outstanding in net, making several key saves to keep the Capitals at bay.

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The Carolina Hurricanes are also up 2-0 in their series against the Nashville Predators. Their fast-paced, high-scoring offense has been too much for the Predators to handle, and they will look to continue their dominance as the series shifts to Nashville.

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In a surprise upset, the Minnesota Wild have taken a 2-0 lead over the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite being heavy underdogs in the series, the Wild have played with intensity and determination, winning both games in overtime.

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The Los Angeles Kings have also taken an early lead in their series against the St. Louis Blues, winning the first game on the road. Their stifling defense has limited the Blues' scoring chances, and they will look to continue their strong play as the series shifts to Los Angeles.

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The Bruins' offense has been firing on all cylinders in the playoffs, with forwards Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak leading the way. Their explosive playmaking ability has been too much for the Capitals to handle, and they will look to continue their scoring barrage as the series progresses.

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The Hurricanes' defense has been outstanding in the playoffs, with defenseman Dougie Hamilton and goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic leading the way. Their strong play has limited the Predators' scoring opportunities, and they will look to continue their dominant play as the series moves to Nashville.

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The Wild have won both of their games in overtime, with forward Joel Eriksson Ek scoring the game-winning goal in both contests. Their clutch play has been instrumental in their success thus far, and they will look to continue their winning ways in Game 3.

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The Kings have been playing a physical brand of hockey in the playoffs, with defenseman Drew Doughty leading the way. Their aggressive style has rattled the Blues' offense, and they will look to continue their tough play in Game 2.

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The Bruins, Hurricanes, Wild, and Kings have taken early leads in the Stanley Cup playoffs. With their strong play on both ends of the ice, these teams will look to continue their success as they battle for the ultimate prize in hockey.

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