I’m always one to make predictions when playoffs take place, but often don’t take the time to document them. The current NBA postseason is a perfect example – just ask the people I told my thoughts to! I’m looking forward to watching the puck drop tonight in what should be an exciting end to the shortened NHL season. It’s also the 1st postseason since 1996 to include all of the Original Six teams.
So, here are my predictions for the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs (odds say I’ll get a couple right anyways)…
Eastern Conference
♦ Pittsburgh Penguins (1) vs New York Islanders (8): This should be a pretty easy series for the Pens – NY is just out manned here and the Penguins are too talented to lose this series. Pittsburgh in 5.
♦ Montreal Canadiens (2) vs Ottawa Senators (7): Montreal will rely on their defense and goaltending on this series while Ottawa tries to continue the strong play that got them the 7 seed. Montreal in 6.
♦ Washington Capitals (3) vs New York Rangers (6): Washington will try to continue their dominance with power plays (if they get them) while the Rangers will hope that their veteran goaltender can help them with the close ones. New York in 7.
♦ Boston Bruins (4) vs Toronto Maple Leafs (5): Toronto is back in the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade and face a Bruins team looking for redemption and playing for their city. Never underestimate emotions. Boston in 6.
Western Conference
♦ Chicago Blackhawks (1) vs Minnesota Wild (8): This is the first meaningful game for the Blackhawks in a while after breezing their way into 1st place in the west and they will try to avoid the Presidents Trophy curse. Minnesota spent a lot of cash in the offseason, but barely managed to make the playoffs. The Wild can score, but the Hawks will be too much for them and I wouldn’t be shocked if there’s a sweep here. Chicago in 5.
♦ Anaheim Ducks (2) vs Detroit Red Wings (7): The Ducks started the season hot and have tapered off since. It took the Wings until the final day of the season to secure a playoffs spot and keep their streak alive with 22 appearances. The streak they are on is reminiscent of the Kings last year. The goalies will play a big role for both teams. Detroit in 7.
♦ Vancouver Canucks (3) vs San Jose Sharks (6): Vancouver will try to end their playoff woes of recent years with a new goaltender. San Jose will need to build momentum on the road and take control at the Shark Tank. They won all 3 regular season matchups and will go for the upset in the series. San Jose in 6.
♦ St Louis Blues (4) vs Los Angeles Kings (5): While the Kings are the defending champs, they haven’t played that well in a while. They will look to find the level of play they had last spring while the Blues will try to bring their stifling defense into the playoffs. The winner of game 1 will likely win this close match-up. St Louis in 5.
As of today, my prediction for the finals is still possible, but not sure it will happen. Here’s what I had to say when the season started: https://chamberscorner.wordpress.com/2013/01/10/bettmans-blunder-the-2013-nhl-season/
Ms Mittens Mound 