Every year I make predictions and not to brag, but I have a pretty good track record. Last year I went seven for eight in the first round, while in 2007 I was a perfect 8-8. Let us see what 2009 brings!
East
(1) Boston vs. (8) Montreal
- How sad is it to see the Habs in 8th during their 100th year. The Habs will battle hard, but their goaltending is too iffy and their offense is too spotty. The Bruins are solid front to back and will be a tough team to beat. Bruins in six.
(2) Washington vs. (7) NYR
- How can you bet against a team with Mike Green and Alex Ovechkin on it? I can't, especially in the first round. The Rangers will put up a better fight than most think, but will come up short. Capitals in six.
(3) New Jersey vs. Carolina (6)
- The Hurricanes have been one of the hottest teams over the last couple months, and I don't expect them to cool down. I'm not sold Brodeur is 100% and I think the Devils struggles will continue right into the playoffs. Carolina takes this in seven.
(4) Pittsburgh vs. (5) Philadelphia
- If Carolina is hot, than Pittsburgh is molton lava. The Penguins are a force in this league and will easily get past the Flyers. Philly has the offense but their defense and goaltending will be their weak points. Penguins in five.
West
(1) San Jose vs. (8) Anaheim
- This series has potential to get ugly. Both teams have been two of the league's best over the past five years. The Ducks will beat San Jose up, but in the end won't get past them. They will put up a fight. Sharks in six.
(2) Detroit vs. (7) Columbus
- The Blue Jackets finally make the playoffs, only to get stuck against the defending cup champs. The Red Wings are not going to lose to the Blue Jackets, but because of their weak goaltending, it'll take them seven games to get out of this series. Red Wings in seven.
(3) Vancouver vs. (6) St. Louis
- You all have no idea how bad I want to pick St. Louis in this series, but I can't. Mason has been so hot as of late, and the Blues could have Kariya back for this series. With that said, Sundin will play like a man possessed, and Luongo is too hard to bet against. Canucks in seven.
(4) Chicago vs. (5) Calgary
- Probably will be the best first round series. Calgary put so much effort into the trade deadline that a first round exit will not be acceptable. The Blackhawks will have a lot of guys playing in their first playoff series, which will hurt them. They'll give the Flames a big challenge, but the Flames will move onto the second round, setting up San Jose vs. Calgary for the second straight year. Flames in seven.
So there you have it. What do you think, I'd love your feedback. Stay tuned to Hockeyleaks.com for all the latest playoff news, stats and updates.
