Stanley Cup Playoffs: Monday Game Recap

SportsLine NHL analyst Scott Erskine evaluated player performances for Monday's Stanley Cup Playoff games. He focused his analysis on strategic player selections for postseason matchups.

Erskine identified Carolina Hurricanes forward Taylor Hall as a key player. He projected Hall to exceed 2.5 shots on goal in his respective game. Hall previously recorded three shots on goal against the New York Islanders in Game 1. Over his last five games, Hall averaged 3.2 shots on goal.

Another player Erskine highlighted was Dallas Stars forward Roope Hintz. Erskine projected Hintz to score at least one goal. Hintz concluded the regular season with 37 goals. He scored in three of his final four regular-season games. During the regular season, Hintz registered 21 goals in 39 home games.

Erskine also selected Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar. He projected Makar to record at least one assist. Makar led all NHL defensemen with 66 assists during the regular season. He had assists in 13 of his last 18 games. Makar also registered 27 power-play assists during the regular season.