Forward Depth Is The Real X-Factor In The Cup Final

The stars will get the billing, but this Final looks built to be decided by the second and third waves rolling over the boards. Coaches spend all season hunting for matchup edges, and depth scoring is the one area that can tilt a series when the top lines start cancelling each other out. If the supporting cast starts finishing chances, the whole game changes fast. This is the part of the playoffs where quiet contributors become the difference between a parade route and a long summer.