Blackhawks vs. Ducks: 3 things you need to know about the Western Conference Final

The Chicago Blackhawks and Anaheim Ducks made quick work of their second-round opponents, so fans should expect a long, hard-fought series when the two clash in the Western Conference finals,

Before the battle begins, here are three things you need to know:

That's a first

When the two clubs hit the ice for Game 1, it will be the first time they've faced off in the postseason, marking what could be the start of a new rivalry.

On top of never meeting in the playoffs, the two faced off only three times during the regular season. The Blackhawks took two of those meetings, both by 4-1 scores, and Chicago outscored Anaheim 8-3 head-to-head this season.

Two offensive beasts

Both clubs' goalies might be a bit nervous heading into the next round, as each team will be facing their toughest offensive challenge so far.

The Ducks and Blackhawks are averaging the most goals per game of all remaining teams in the postseason. Anaheim is averaging 3.89 goals, while Chicago isn't far behind with 3.2.

The two clubs combined have seven of the top 10 playoff scorers. Often when two offensive teams face off, things dry up, but the red lights could get quite the workout if each team's defense fails to step up.

Same old song and dance

The Western Conference finals won't be uncharted waters for either of these teams. For the Ducks, this marks the fourth time in 12 years they've reached the third round, whereas the Blackhawks have reached the conference finals for the third-straight year and the fifth time in the last seven seasons.

The two clubs have also combined for three Stanley Cups in that time.

Many feel this series could rival the intensity of last year's Blackhawks-Los Angeles Kings series, but only time will tell.

Schedule

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