The Edmonton Oilers and the Carolina Hurricanes (Hartford Whalers previously) began their existance with the World Hockey Association in 1971. Today, they start playing their best of seven game series for the Stanley Cup. The Oilers made quick work of the Anaheim Might Ducks in the previous round while the Hurricanes ploughed through a close seven game series, defeating the Buffalo Sabres. With the series about to get going in Raleigh, North Carolina the two teams are all set to fight it out to the bitter end.

The key once again is going to be in between the pipes. Rookie Hurricanes netminder Cam Ward has been shaky at times but his cool demeanor has served his team well. Dwayne Roloson has played lights out through out the playoffs and provides the Oilers with an edge in goal in the form of an experienced goalie on a hot streak. The one downside is that Edmonton does not have as good a backup as Martin Gerber.

On defense, the Carolina Hurricanes sport an experienced set of players that have extensive playoff experience but lack speed. The Edmonton Oilers can call the Canes experience on the back end and raise one of the few bonafide superstar defensemen in Chris Pronger. Up front, the Hurricanes have Eric Staal who has emerged as the most talented young player in the NHL. Cory Stillman, Rob Brindamour, Justin Williams, Ray Whitney, Doug Weight and Mark Recchi add a good combination of talent and experience to give the Canes an edge against the Oilers offensive unit.

My call is for the Edmonton Oilers to win the Stanley Cup championship in 6 or 7 games.