Poll: Who Will Win The 2018 Stanley Cup Finals?

The day has come. In just a few hours, the Washington Capitals will take on the Vegas Golden Knights in a Stanley Cup Finals matchup no one expected before the season. Even when the playoffs started and Vegas and Washington had won their respective divisions, few gave them a real fighting chance at winning the Stanley Cup. Now, in the matter of a four wins, a team will be crowned 2018 NHL Champions, and take home the first Stanley Cup in franchise history—short as that history is for the Golden Knights.

For Vegas, this is not something to take lightly. Though their team was constructed less than a year ago, and the team has blown their competition out of the water time and time again this season, they could just as easily take a massive step backwards in the years to come. Thanks to some exquisite drafting that doesn’t look like it’s going to happen, but nothing is ever certain in sports. Just ask the Capitals, who have had season after season of individual successes, but are getting to the finals for just the second time in franchise history and first since 1998.

Washington is made up of much the same core as their previous early playoff exits, but feel like they are playing better now than ever before. A 32-year old Alex Ovechkin looks rejuvenated, and has 22 points in 19 playoff games. He’s generated a playoff-leading 80 shots on goal, and is playing physical hard working hockey. Their coach, Barry Trotz, could still be fighting for his future as he continues to work without an extension. Like a free agent during a contract year he’s showing the world what he can do at his best.

Those pesky Golden Knights won’t lie down easily though. Marc-Andre Fleury, an old nemesis of the Capitals will be standing in the way, flashing his Conn Smythe-caliber .947 playoff save percentage in their face. Fleury was replaced in Pittsburgh by Matt Murray in recent years, but is showing that he can still perform on the biggest stage. Vegas GM George McPhee knows the Capitals roster probably better than anyone not still with the organization, as he drafted many of the current players and constructed huge chunks of the group when he was Washington’s GM.

This series will be a war. After several (see: too many) days off, both teams are ready to get things started and will do so later tonight. Who do you think will win? Cast your vote below and comment on who you think will show up to secure the series for their team.

[Mobile users click here to vote!]