Also I think fatigue will not be as big a factor as some are making it out to be because the adernaline that comes with home ice will undoubtedly balance out any fatigue. Once you get to Jersey (which will likely be a 65/35 split for Jersey, but still better than any other playoff road game), you are in the heart of the series at that point so you have your legs, plus you come off two off-days before game 3.

Plus, there is no travel issue, which is also big for fatigue. You’re not dealing with major roadtrips.

Of course, this is even for both sides… I don’t think the two games difference in games played, nor the week off for Jersey will be much of a factor – Better team will win this series, period.