No matter who wins this series, the Stanley Cup figures to stop in West Michigan.

Justin Abdelkader brought it home for a visit after the Red Wings won the Stanley Cup finals last year.  He got to skate with the cup and got to party with the cup, but his name has yet to be engraved on it.   His contributions this time around would ensure Justin Abdelkader would be added to the world’s most famous trophy.  Abdelkader has scored 2-goals in the finals.

If Pittsburgh comes back and wins the series, then expect Penguins coach Dan Bylsma to bring it home.   He grew up in Grand Haven and still has a home there.

Bylsma and Abdelkader had never met until this season.  Although they knew all about each other.  The grew up skating on the same rinks.  They played for the same youth program in Muskegon.

Abdelkader says he was inspired by Bylsma’s success as a player.  “He was the first Muskegon guy to make it.”

Bylsma joked, “I saw his billboard when I was in Grand Rapids.  I never had a billboard.”  He also said he knew all about the success Abdelkader had during his career at Mona Shores H.S., Michigan State and now with the Red Wings.

Two guys who learned the game off hockey on ponds in West Michigan.  One will hoist Lord Stanley’s Cup.