Stanley Cup betting creeps closer every day and I’m having a devil of a time (Pun intended? Or not?) determining who will win the Stanley Cup. With respect to March Madness betting, all signs point to this year’s playoffs being the best team-sport tournament we’ve seen in years. The parity is astounding.

Since the NHL betting playoff participants look like they’ll be ridiculously well-matched, the survivors will need gamebreakers — high-impact players who respond in the clutch.

Could Dan Boyle be one of those guys? He’s been a major reason behind the Sharks’ banner season, with 42 points — including 14 goals already — in 49 games. Not bad for a blueliner, eh? The Sharks’ Achilles heel during their recent years of dominance has been an inability to win big games, but now they’ve added two defensive pillars – Boyle and Rob Blake – with Cup rings. Could be the difference maker in the Stanley Cup odds against New Jers – uh, I mean, whomever the Sharks could meet if they reach the Final.

Let’s sit back and enjoy this beauty Boyle scored Friday night. Sucks to be you, Tony Lydman.