Five Ridiculous NHL Predictions Guaranteed to Come True!

The Anaheim Ducks Will Win The Stanley Cup in 2014

Sep 28, 2013; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks celebrate after a goal by Anaheim Ducks center

(21) against the San Jose Sharks during the third period at Honda Center. The San Jose Sharks defeated the Anaheim Ducks 6-5. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

How can I go wrong with this pick?  After all, parity has leveled the playing field in the NHL enough that a number 8 seed won it all back in 2012 (those pesky Los Angeles Kings), making the Ducks are as good a pick as any to bring the hardware home.  They have solid goaltending, a bruising style of play, and the ability to both score and defend (the Ducks were one of only three teams  to rank among the top ten in both goals scored and goals against last year).

And they won’t have to play the Detroit Red Wings in the playoffs this year!  (Yes, I’m still bitter that the Red Wings knocked Anaheim out of the playoffs last year!)

What’s that?  You’re concerned that the Ducks will miss Bobby Ryan, who is now playing for the Ottawa Senators?  Relax – Anaheim picked up Dustin Penner via free agency, he of the 6’4″, 247 lbs. frame.  He may not score as much as Ryan, but he provides timely scoring (especially in the playoffs) and will do his best to make it tough to score for opposing teams.

So how can I go wrong with this pick?   Because it’s the ANAHEIM DUCKS.  Moving on.