MICHAEL TRAIKOS, POSTMEDIA

How it will play out: Strap yourselves in — this is going to be a wild ride.

San Jose and Pittsburgh did not get to the Stanley Cup final because of their defence.

Led by Logan Couture (24 points) and Joe Pavelski ( 13 goals), the Sharks have averaged a playoff- leading 3.5 goals per game.

The Penguins, who have relied on big- time contributions from Phil Kessel ( nine goals and 18 points), are second with 3.22 goals per game.

In other words, goaltending could be an X- factor in a series where both teams might need two goalies to get the job done. Pick: Pittsburgh in six Conn Smythe: Matt Murray