At last, the long 82 game season has ended and the most exciting 6 weeks in sports are here. The Stanley Cup Playoffs have arrived and over the next two days I’ll break down the East and Western conferences.
THE EASTERN CONFERENCE
First off I think the Rangers are going to sweep Washing-……oh wait….never mind….. :’(
Washington v.s. Montreal : The Capitals have without question been the NHL’s best team this year. They score nearly 4 goals a game and have the most exciting player in the sport. Ovechkin still has game 7 against Pittsburgh last year on his mind and he’s looking for revenge. If I’m a Canadien fan right now, I’m shaking thinking of Ovechkin desire to move on. Montreal just doesn’t have enough to keep up with the Caps’ pace. Maybe they can grab a game but don’t expect Halak to steal them the series.
Prediction: Washington Wins 4-1
New Jersey vs. Philadelphia: Oh boy! Two teams I hate with a passion! This is a lose lose scenario for me but I suppose I do have to pick a winner. Honestly I’d rather see the Flyers win because theyre a big underdog. The goalie match-up obviously favors the Devils however everything else is actually pretty close. The series is sure to be intense and expect tons on penalties. If Brian Boucher can hold his own expect the Flyers to cause some trouble. Kovalchuk still hasn’t fit in with the Devils system and they need him to be better. I personally don’t think he will in time. Expect Philly to steal the series in a long one.
Prediction: Philadelphia Wins 4-2
Buffalo vs. Boston: Well the main storyline of this matchup will be Tuukka Rask and his inexperience. Who would’ve thought after last year, Tim Thomas would be sitting on the bench to start the playoffs. However if Rask struggles early, expect Thomas to replace him. Buffalo’s had a good quiet season and with Ryan Miller between the pipes, they’re likely to eliminate Boston.
Prediction: Buffalo Wins 4-2
Pittsburgh vs. Ottawa: I’m going to be honest here. I have no idea how the Senators are where they are today. They never seemed like a threat to me and I’ll be shocked if they even make this a series to watch. I expect the Penguins to skate circles around the Sens and make them head home quickly. The Penguins are the defending Cup Champs which automatically makes them dangerous. With Crosby having an MVP type year, Pittsburgh might be even scarier this year.
Prediction: Pittsburgh Win 4-0
Well that’s it for the East, check back tomorrow for the West!
