If you look at the second round playoff series in the NHL this year you will see 3 of the series – all were playing a game yesterday – went to 2-0.
I have always believed that the second round series were shorter for some reason – that the average number of games is less than the others for some reason.
I postulated that this could be because one time – ie Calgary Flames for instance – threw their all in just defeating their first round opponent. It also could be a manifestation of some sort of ‘manifest destiny’ by the teams who were strong and had the Stanley Cup firmly in their sights.
But this solid analysis by the folks of Arctic Ice seems to de-bunk the myth.
http://www.arcticicehockey.com/2010/4/19/1407017/average-playoff-game-length-1980
pucksense 