What an intense weekend of hockey. It was awesome to watch all the teams fighting to get into the final playoff spots. It was very strange that Carolina, Chicago and Dallas were unable to win with their season on the line, but Chicago was still lucky enough to get in. When the dust finnaly settled Sunday night, we were finally able to see which teams got in. In a two part series I'll break down all of the first round match ups, starting today with the eastern conference.
Washington (1) VS NY Rangers (8)
The Capitals started the season slow but turned on the heat in the final months of the season to finish in first place. They still have last years upset by Montreal last season in the back of their minds but this season they are a more rounded team unlike last years offensive power house. The Rangers lost star Ryan Callahan to a broken leg and I don't think they will be able to stop the Caps. Ludqvist might be able to steal them one win, but Washington will be able to get past them easily.
Prediction Capitals in 5.
Philadelphia (2) VS Buffalo (7)
The Flyers have many experienced players that were on the team that went to the final last season and Phily has been playing good all season. However they have been losing their edge recently while Buffalo has been winning. The Sabres were given new life from new owner Terry Pegula and are a stronger team than most people give them credit for, though they won't get far this year, watch out for Buffalo in the future.
Prediction Flyers in 6
Boston (3) VS Montreal (6)
The legendary rivalry is being renewed once again. This seasons rivalry between these two teams was highlighted by a fight fest that saw star goalies Tim Thomas and Carey Price drop the gloves. In another game Bruins captain Zdeno Chara hit habs forward Max Paccioretty into a stanchion damaging virtebra in his neck and giving him a concussion. This year Boston is the stronger team on paper but Montreal always seems to know how to handle them. This series will be one of the best between the two teams we have ever seen.
Prediction Boston in 7
Pittsburgh (4) VS Tampa Bay (5)
The Penguins have been without the services of star players Sid Crosby and Evgeni Malkin for most of the season and there is no timetable for their return. The lightning have been a team on the rise, lead by Steve Stampkos and Marty St. Louis and GM Steve Yzerman made some big moves to make them a contender again. Since Pittsburgh is thin down the middle, I think the healthy Lightning will pull an upset and win.
Prediction Tampa Bay in 7
So there are my predictions for the East quarterfinals. Tune in tomorrow for the Western picks and don't forget to make your own picks in the comments below.
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