Cue the music of Andy Williams "It's the most wonderful time of the year".
We are done with the regular season and ready for the best time which is the start of the Stanley Cup playoffs, so with that in mind here are my thoughts and predictions for every series in the first round:
Eastern Conference:
#1 Capitals versus #8 Rangers-Caps were in same spot last year; however, they are markedly different as a defensive-minded team versus the offensive juggernaut that couldn't score against the Canadiens last year. The additions of Arnott and Wideman have paid huge for the Caps and will be key for them to go deep this year. Even as a #8 seed the Rangers are very tough and physical, they are very well coached by John Torterella so this will not be a cakewalk for the Caps.
Key to series: Return of Green/Poti/Wideman.
Prediction: Caps in 6
#2 Flyers vs. #7 Sabres-Flyers had a lackluster finish to the regular season but still are a fantastic team, they will be expected to go deep and become the favorites to represent the Eastern Conference in the final. Sabres are hot and cold and it will be interesting to see which team shows up as they can't rely on Miller alone to win.
Key to series: Can Sabres match Flyers intensity?
Prediction: Flyers in 5
#3 Bruins vs. #6 Canadiens-This is the best matchup of the first round, 2 of the original 6 square off. Both teams have good quality players and I predict this series will go 7 games.
Key to series: Tim Thomas
Prediction: Bruins in 7
#4 Penguins vs. #5 Lightning-First time meeting for these two teams in a playoff setting. Even with the losses of Crosby, Malkin and Cooke, the Penguins nearly overtook the Flyers in the Atlantic Division. The Lightning had a down last couple of weeks letting the Caps overtake them in the SE division. Both teams have excellent offensive firepower and excellent goaltenders
Key to series: Will Crosby return?
Prediction: Lightning in 7
Western Conference:
#1 Canucks vs. #8 Blackhawks-The defending champs had to pin their hopes on the Stars losing to the Wild tonight to get back in the playoffs. The loss of Niemi and Byfuglien has made a huge difference and the Canucks will expose the Blackhawks weaknesses easily.
Key to series: Can the Sedin's be stifled?
Prediction: Vancouver in 4
#2 Sharks vs. #7 Kings-Norcal vs. SoCal series, the Sharks are a lot like the Caps with playoff futility. This series will be a question of which team will show up, both have big guns and good goaltending.
Key to series: Can the Sharks put together a complete effort?
Prediction: Sharks in 6
#3 Red Wings vs. #6 Coyotes-Wings are making their 20th straight appearance in the playoffs but they are getting older. Coyotes have shown a lot of promise the last couple of weeks winning key games and their youth may be the key to this series.
Key to series: Wings experience versus Coyotes youth
Prediction: Wings in 6
#4 Ducks vs. #5 Predators-Could be another good series as the Ducks with Rocket Richard winner Corey Parey goes up against Barry Trotz' Predators.
Key to series: Can Perry keep up his scoring touch?
Prediction: Ducks in 6
Games start Wednesday night
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