Second Round Predictions

The second round took no time to get started. The day after Tampa Bay and Boston won their series in game 7, the second round began with the Vancouver Canucks and Nashville Predators start their series. So though I missed the first game, I still am going to make my predictions. I was 7-8 last round but most of my game amounts were off, and now we will see if I can improve my record this round.

Western Conference

Vancouver (1) VS Nashville (5)
Vancouver got a scare when they blew a 3 game series lead only to win in game 7 overtime against Chicago. The Predators are advancing to the second round for the first time in team history. Both teams are very strong on defense and Pekka Rinne and Roberto Luongo are both nominated for goaltender of the year. To further prove what a defensive battle this will be, Vancouver won game one 1-0.

Prediction- Vancouver in 7

San Jose (2) VS Detroit (3)
Both of these teams handled their first round opponents easily, Detroit was the only team to sweep in the first round. The Wings haven't played in close to 10 days which is good as they now have Henrik Zetterberg and Johan Franzen fully healthy and ready to go. The Sharks have played more recently than the Wings but with their recent playoff histories the Wings have a big advantage.

Prediction- Detroit in 6

Eastern Conference

Washington (1) VS Tampa Bay (5)
The Lightning pulled an upset against the Pittsburgh Penguins in game 7 and now have to face their season long division rivals from DC. The Caps handled the NY Rangers easily in round one, while Tampa went all the way before winning. Tampa really improved in the late games of the series and they are very deep in all positions. The Caps are still offensive minded which could either help or hurt their chances.

Prediction- Tampa Bay in 7

Philadelphia (2) VS Boston (3)
The Flyers and Bruins both had to go to game 7 before winning their series last round. Last season Boston blew a 3 game lead against the Flyers to loose in 7 games and they certainly must feel they want revenge. Both teams are greatly improved from last season, but Boston is a lot stronger in net. The flyers played good all season but Tim Thomas will be the difference this round.

Prediction- Boston in 6

So there are my picks for round 2. The first round featured some of the best hockey games seen in a long while and there doesn't seem to be anything slowing them down. There are some great match ups this round that will result with more great hockey. Let the games begin.