Parity Crashers

If YOU'RE debating whether the NBA or NHL playoffs are more exciting, well, there's no debate—the answer is both. But parity is another matter. The NBA postseason is supposedly predictable; the Stanley Cup Playoffs are purportedly random. But do the leagues deserve their reputations? The last 10 years—not including this season—indicate that yes, the NHL's playoffs are more unpredictable. So while we can't pick a favorite, it's clear which postseason you should be watching if you crave chaos.

NHL

NBA

49

Game 7s

31

Over the last decade three NHL teams have won multiple titles—the Blackhawks, Penguins and Kings.

5

Different champions

7

The 2016 edition of Cavs-Warriors was just the fourth seven-game NBA Finals since 1994.

In 2010, Montreal stunned Alex Ovechkin's Presidents' Trophy--winning Capitals in seven games.

12

Number of franchises to reach the finals

9

3

Teams with league's best record upset in the first round

1

6

Champions that didn't win their division

1

The 2011 champion Mavericks finished second in the Southwest Division to the Spurs.

65

Upsets based on seeding.

32

In 2012 the Kings knocked out four higher seeds and won the Stanley Cup.