It’s usually the most wonderful time of the year, but the first round of the NHL playoffs in 2024 has produced very little to get excited about if you’re a fan of compelling hockey, says Ken Campbell.

At the risk of sounding like an old man screaming at the clouds, remember the days when the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs would produce some of the most exciting, compelling and dynamic hockey of the season? Well, it sure isn’t happening this year, at least not yet.

With the exception of the Dallas-Vegas series, which goes to Game 4 Monday night, none of the series has even been very competitive. All other seven series were either a four-game sweep or are at 3-1 entering Game 5.

If you’re a fan of either of the Vancouver Canucks, New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche, Edmonton Oilers, Carolina Hurricanes or Florida Panthers, you’re probably thrilled at the moment. But if you have no dog in the fight and you’re just looking for some exciting hockey, you’re probably looking forward to Round 2.

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