Caps vs. Rangers Round II

#1 Washington Capitals (48-23-11, 107 pts.)  

vs. 

#8 New York Rangers (44-33-5, 93 pts.)

The only team the Capitals have beaten in post season play comes back for revenge. Two seasons ago, the New York Rangers were not considered contenders against a offensive powerhouse that were the Capitals in the first round. The Caps had won their second divisional title with more authority that season. But the Rangers found a way to hold on and force a game seven, in which they lost when Sergei Fedorov pulled up and shot a slapper high on Henrik Lundqvist to give the Caps their first playoff series win since in the Alex Ovechkin era. Now, fast forward to 2011. Two different teams from that moment in time.

Stanley Cup Fearless Predictions: Eastern Conference

Whoa Nelly! Are you ready for the up for grabs Eastern Conference? No team has shown true dominance through out the dominance. In fact, it took to the last handful of games for each of the division champs to secure their crown. But even the pundits can't seem to agree if division champs Boston, Philadelphia or Washington is strong enough to take the Conference. Which makes the field wide open, much like it was last year where the bottom seeds shocked the millions of office pools through out Canada.

To pick a winner is like winning the lottery. Last year the two lowest seeds were battling in the Conference final. Can that repeat again?

Eastern Conference Quarter-Finals

#1 Washington Capitals vs. #8 New York Rangers

Of course I am going into more detail about this particular series at a later date. The quick overview is Washington will have to learn from it's mistakes through the last three post seasons. All of them have gone to seven games. Even with the Capitals high powered offensive players, it struggled this year to score. But where the offense faltered the defense picked up. For the Rangers, there is little or no fear going into this series. They have taken 3 of the 4 games in the regular season series including a pair of blow out games were the Broadway Blueshirts beat the Caps 7-0 and 6-0. Ouch. If the Rangers can show the offensive spark they had against the Caps in the regular season, the Caps will be going home early with a plethora of questions.

Washington sneaks by New York Rangers in 6 games

#2 Philadelphia Flyers vs. #7 Buffalo Sabres

The Flyers have tripped up in the final stretch of the season and lost their first place in the Eastern Conference to a surging Capitals team. Even though they had to deal with some pretty big losses on the blue line in Chris Pronger and a inconsistent netminding conundrum they are still a scary team to face in the playoffs. They face a team that has turned it on as of late just to make the playoffs. Philly's hard nose play should wear the Sabres talent guys down. I just don't see how Ryan Miller can stop them all.

Philadelphia defeats Buffalo in 5 games

#3 Boston Bruins vs. #6 Montreal Canadiens

Who isn't going to watch this hard charged series. You have history, intrigue, and controversy. Every thing a classic series should have. Will the Habs get their day by putting Zdeno Chara on the golf course early? Can Tim Thomas stop a sneaky Canadien offense that seems to relish in big game goals? Can Carey Price live up to the hype that Jaro Halak left last post season? A lot of questions that are worthy of watching to see the answers. If Boston can lock down defensively and negate the Habs' speed, they will have a much better post season than the come from behind debacle against Philly a year ago.

Boston takes out Montreal in 7 games

#4 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. #5 Tampa Bay Lightning

Tampa reminds me a lot of the Caps two years ago. Great offensive talent but so-so defense and okay goaltending. The big question is how the Penguins are going to approach them with out their offensive keys in place with Sidney Crosby not likely to return until round two and no Evgeni Malkin. The Penguins have survived nicely with out either in the line up with others picking up the slack. If Tampa can survive the relentless forecheck of the Penguins and keep the play in Marc-Andre Fluery's end, then they should pull out the upset. But this is a team that needs more playoff experience before that can happen.

Penguins knock out Tampa in 5 games.

Eastern Champion: Boston Bruins

The Bruins have a chance to take it all and the way Tim Thomas is playing, it's plausible to see them conquering the Eastern Conference. They will have to survive an emotional first round against Montreal and battle Washington and Philly to take the Eastern crown. I do think the Capitals can make it to the Conference finals, but injuries will plague them through the post season. It will be Boston that takes honors here.

Stanley Cup Winner: San Jose Sharks

I picked them last year, and for much the same reasons I pick them to win it all last year. Shaking free of their demons, I just like the direction this team is taking themselves. But it will be no easy task for them. They have to keep their scoring up and their goaltending has to be top notch. Plus a series between Boston and San Jose would be pretty intriguing with the age old trade that sent Joe Thronton to the west coast.

Coming up... Series breakdown between the Caps and Rangers.

Stanley Cup Fearless Predictions: Western Conference

Before we go into the Caps/Rangers Series A, let's take a look at the big picture and go through what will be some dynamite series as we roll to the 2011 Stanley Cup Final. Before I have done the Eastern Conference before the Western. This year I am flipping it. As always, you can leave your thoughts below in comments.

In the Western Conference things took a while for the final 8 to settle into their final series places. In fact it took the very last game of the season between the Minnesota Wild and Dallas Stars to see if last year's champs even make a return to the post season (they did with a Star loss). This Conference has been ultra competitive, but one team has walked away from everyone. The Canucks may not want such a distinction given the fact they are facing a very good Blackhawk team in the first round.


Western Conference Quarter-Final

#1 Vancouver Canucks vs. #8 Chicago Blackhawks

The Canucks won the President's Trophy for most points in a season. They have the top point getter, most wins by a goaltender and an assist leader to give them a power house team that took their conference by storm. But I don't think they wanted to take on the Cup champs from last year in the first round. While the Hawks have had their bumps in the road, they have played well down the stretch to sneak in on the very last day. With some hard work and a little luck, the Blackhawks look to repeat with the same lack of respect they showed in last season's run. This should be a war of a series.

Vancouver sneaks past Chicago in 7 games.

#2 San Jose Sharks vs. #7 Los Angeles Kings

I really like the Kings this year, if for nothing else they have just wanted their wins more this season. If their goaltender Jonathan Quick can stay on top of his game and the Kings show that never say die attitude they could be a handful for the Sharks. But the Sharks have been bitten by the Cup bug shaking some old demons that have plagued them in post seasons past. The Sharks have shown some offensive supremacy against the Kings at times, but the season series is tied at 3 games a piece. If the Kings can make the score tight, they have a very good chance.

San Jose defeats LA in 7 games

#3 Detroit Red Wings vs. #6 Phoenix Coyotes

It's round two for these two teams from a year ago. Only this time, the Red Wings have home ice advantage. The Coyotes lean heavily on their goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov. He has the opportunity to steal a series for them and they will need him against the Detroit powerhouse. The Red Wings do have a weakness this season. Jimmy Howard is the go to guy with no serious back up to, well.. back him up. It makes these two teams a lot even than you might think.

Detroit defeats Phoenix in 5 games

#4 Anaheim Ducks vs. #5 Nashville Predators

This should be an interesting series. Neither team really has a history playoff wise to speak of. The Ducks are coming off their best second half of the season in some time. It helped them secure a playoff spot early and they are looking to return to the promise land. The Predators are still inexperienced at this whole playoff thing, but their emotion and some smart goaltending should help them steal a series from the Ducks.

Nashville upsets Anaheim in 6 games

Western Champs: San Jose Sharks

Just about every pundit has the Canucks coming out of the Western Conference with flying colors. But just looking down the line they have to play a tough team in Chicago in the first round then face teams like San Jose or Detroit down the stretch. I just don't see that happening. The Canucks are already limping into the post season as it is. I think the Sharks have the best line to make it to the Western Conference Final and a chance to actually play for Lord Stanley's Cup.

Stanley Cup Fearless Predictions - Western Conference

The Western Conference wasn't as much of a log jam as they use to be in seasons past. In fact the West was decided pretty early, with about 3 or 4 games left in the season. Not bad. From the previous year's conference winner that looked all but out of it pre-Olympic break to a team that surprised everyone owned by the league, the West is definitely wild.

Western Conference Quarter-Finals

#1 San Jose Sharks vs. #8 Colorado Avalanche

Everyone thought the Avalanche were going now where this season. They lost Joe Sakic to retirement and the team basically blew up their roster going with youth with a few vets sprinkled in. Bottom line, they really were not suppose to do much this year. But Craig Anderson and rookie Matt Duchene made this team competitive and the Avs are sitting pretty in the playoffs. The Sharks will have a pretty motivated, feisty team on their hands.

San Jose defeats Colorado in 6 games.

#2 Chicago Blackhawks vs. #7 Nashville Predators

A Central Division showdown, the Preds made a run in what may be the toughest division to play in. Led by Patric Hornqvist, the Predators just fell two points shy in the standings of best Detroit for the first time in their franchise's history. They draw a tough opponent in Chicago, who are hungry for more after making it to the Western Conference Finals and fell to the Red Wings. If the Blackhawks get some consistent goaltending, Nashville shouldn't be a problem.

Chicago defeats Nashville in 5 games.

#3 Vancouver Canucks vs. #6 Los Angeles Kings

The Canucks are riding a heck of a season led by Art Ross Trophy winner Henrik Sedin. With gold medal winner Roberto Luongo in net, they look to be on paper a shoe in against a younger, less experienced team. But don't count out the Kings. They have a 24-14-3 record just on the road, while the Canucks have only managed 19 wins away from home. If Ryan Kesler plays like he did during the Olympics and the Kings fall into a slump or have injuries, Vancouver shouldn't have a problem. But I think they have a problem.

Los Angeles upsets Vancouver in 7 games.

#4 Phoenix Coyotes vs. #5 Detroit Red Wings

For a team that doesn't have an owner, the Coyotes are showing some gumption this season. They nearly made a successful run in their division by besting the Sharks, but they couldn't keep up with San Jose and instead settled on 4th in the Conference. Ilya Bryzgalov has been their savior in net for the 'Yotes and they made some important moves at the trade deadline to help with some injuries. They, however, drew a tough first round against Detroit. The Red Wings have been on a tear since the Olympic break. Two upsets in a row, wow.

Detroit upsets Phoenix in 6 games.

Western Conference Semi-Finals

San Jose Sharks vs. Los Angeles Kings

I don't see the Sharks having much of a problem with the Kings. But stranger things have happened. Joe Thornton will be trying to shake the playoff monkey from his back and try to help the Sharks move along. Getting some good goaltending in Evgeni Nabokov doesn't hurt either. The Kings will have to rely on a lot of inexperienced players like goaltender Jonathan Quick to help them move to the next round. But the Sharks are just too talented for them.

San Jose defeats LA in 5 games

Chicago Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings

Last year's Western Conference Final is this year's Semi-Final. The Hawks are a much more experienced team this time around and the Red Wings will have to lean pretty hard on rookie goaltender Jimmy Howard. It should be a wide open, high scoring affair between the two. If the Blackhawks don't get the consistent goaltending they need, they will be ending the post season prematurely.

Chicago defeats Detroit in 7 games.

Western Conference Final

San Jose Sharks vs. Chicago Blackhawks

Now this is a series to watch. The Sharks and Blackhawks will have to do with some pretty hefty travel in this series. Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews against Thornton, Patrick Marleau and Danny Heatley. The names make it sound more like an All-Star game rather than a Western Final. The Blackhawks need to rely on their speed and scoring strengths, while the Sharks come in the bigger team and need to take up some space from the Hawks. Goaltending will be key again for both teams.

Chicago upsets San Jose in 6 games for the Western Conference crown.

Stanley Cup Final Fearless Prediction

Washington Capitals vs. Chicago Blackhawks

Two young teams going head to head and there is already drama between the two. Alex Ovechkin's little push from behind that sent Brian Campbell into the boards should be enough motivation for these two teams to be on less than civil terms. And with the Stanley Cup on the line as well. If you want scoring, you got it. Both teams can play a wide open, shoot-0ut style game. So defense will be key. If Campbell returns to the line up by then, he will be the Hawks rally cry. For the Capitals, they will have to depend on Tom Poti and Mike Green on the back end to keep the high powered Hawk offense at bay. Their goaltending will have to be spectacular for them to down an original six team and their franchise's first Stanley Cup. It all comes down to home ice advantage.

Washington defeats Chicago in 7 games for the Stanley Cup.

Okay, I know what you are thinking, "He is a blogger for the Capitals, of course he is going to pick them all the way!" Well, your right in some respects. I think the two best teams should meet in the finals, and right now those two teams happen to be Chicago and Washington, in my opinion.

For the Capitals, a lot of things have to go their way. They need the best out of Jose Theodore to make it to the Finals and they need goal support for their top line. If they can get both, they shouldn't have a problem getting to the Finals (as long as they don't play down to their competition in the early going).

I really like the Hawks coming out of the west. They surprised everyone last year by getting to the finals, but I don't think that was a fluke. They post some size and grit in their line up and if Cristobal Huet or Antti Niemi can get hot down the stretch, I don't see why they can't overcome the West.

If anything, I don't want to see another Pittsburgh/Detroit final. Nor really do other fans out side of Pittsburgh and Detroit. This predicted final would boost the NHL's image as the two have a history from the regular season and both are in good markets.

Stanley Cup Fearless Predictions - Eastern Conference

The Washington Capitals finished an amazing season winning the President's Trophy and the race for eighth was a bit riveting with a near miss by the New York Rangers who lost their playoff spot by a shoot out. It makes panning out the Eastern Conference no easy chore. But I will try anyway.

Eastern Conference Quarter-Finals

#1 Washington Capitals vs. #8 Montreal Canadiens

There will be a more comprehensive breakdown of this series hopefully by tomorrow. But the long and short of it, Montreal just doesn't have the guns to run an open style of game with the Capitals. Canadien coach Jacques Martin will most likely play a controlled game where one goal will be the deciding factor and bet his team can grind out a defensive transition game to make it close. But the Caps are far to skilled and if the games are going to be decided by a goal or less, the best bet is the Caps score it.

Washington defeats Montreal in 5 games.

#2 New Jersey Devils vs. #7 Philadelphia Flyers

If there was ever going to be an upset in the first round of the playoffs, best bet is it is in this series between the Devils and Flyers. The Flyers played New Jersey surprisingly tough this season, partly because of their size. The Devils don't usually like to get into a physical type game and the Flyers aren't happy unless someone is getting thrown out of a game. It is going to come down to goaltending, and my money is on Martin Brodeur.

New Jersey defeats Philadelphia in 7 games.

#3 Buffalo Sabres vs. #6 Boston Bruins

This is actually a tough series to figure out. Buffalo just doesn't score much and Boston is a very defensive team. So it is going to come down to goaltending. Boston's Tuuka Rask is a rookie, but has played strong enough to over take the number one job from veteran Tim Thomas. While in the other net, Ryan Miller has played so well for the Sabres that many are considering him this year's MVP. Rask was 4-1 against the Sabres, while it's hard to ignore Miller's good play. It is literally a coin flip. Injuries also play a pretty big factor as both seem to be limping into this series.

Boston defeats Buffalo in 7 games.

#4 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. #5 Ottawa Senators

When are these two not going to square off in the first round of the playoffs. Ottawa was destined for disaster at the beginning of the season, but they found a savior in Brian Elliott. He helped the Senators rise to a playoff spot when most left the team for dead. The Penguins are the returning Stanley Cup Champs, and taking on Ottawa was not what it was like 3 years ago when they lost that emotional series. If the Pens come out sluggish or play to Ottawa's level, the Sens could steal a series away. I doubt if a healthy Evgeni Malkin and their coach Dan Bylsma will let that happen.

Pittsburgh defeats Ottawa in 5 games.

Eastern Conference Semi-Finals

Washington Capitals vs. Boston Bruins

The Caps offense against the Bruins defense. They should be close games and the Caps will have to deal with a lot of Bruin hard work. If the Capitals can hold their own on the defensive end, it's no contest. The Bruins don't have the offensive power to over match the Caps. Most likely the Bruins will play a tough game keeping the score close to one goal differential as possible, much like the Canadiens did the round before.

Washington defeats Boston in 6 games.

New Jersey Devils vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

A divisional matchup with Stanley Cup implications. The Penguins will have to face down a tough defense in the Devils while holding their own on the back end. This is were they will miss a few of their defenesmen gone way of free agency. Marc-Andre Fluery will have to out duel the best if the Pens hope to repeat. The Devils will have to lean heavily on Ilya Kovalchuk to get them to the next step.

Pittsburgh upsets New Jersey in 7 games.

Eastern Conference Finals

Washington Capitals vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

The road to the Stanley Cup Finals in the Eastern Conference will go through these two teams. Again, the ratings will be huge, the games will by hyped and Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby will not disappoint. But just like the Penguins were determined after they lost to Detroit to not repeat, the Capitals will look for the same. Last post season, this series would eventually decide the Stanley Cup winner. A possible repeat of the same?

Washington defeats Pittsburgh in 7 games for the Eastern Conference Crown.

Caps move on, at least in theory, to the Stanley Cup Finals. But wait, no fearless prediction can go much further with out a look at the Western Conference first. That will come out this afternoon along with my pick for the Stanley Cup winner. I am so excited, I could just spit.

1,000th Post

It seems the right time to do a season preview on my 1,000 post. It has taken me 4 years, some bad grammar, a few hate comments and nearly 100,000 hits a year in that time to get to this point. It seems apropos that it will be on the verge of what could be the year for the Capitals.

But Commissioner Gary Bettman isn't just going to hand the Capitals the Stanley Cup (unlike some other teams he would). That means the Caps will have to meander through another 82 game schedule to reach just a chance at that prize. It seems a bit cliche to make it "movie" themed, but this year's season preview will look at The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

The Good

If the Capitals even want a chance at the Cup, they will need another great year from the anointed next great one. Alex Ovechkin may get some much needed help in that regard and hopefully he will not have to carry that load alone. After the departure of Viktor Kozlov and Sergei Fedorov, the Caps needed to fulfill those veteran skates. Instead of just getting the best free agent on the market, they looked at what they needed. They needed some grit to accompany the skill.

Mike Knuble was brought in to add some sandpaper to the silky smooth play of the top line. One of the frustrating problems for the Caps a season ago was the amount of rebounds and loose pucks that were gobbled up by the opposition. Knuble should fix that problem. We have already seen that in the preseason. The Caps also pulled in some solid second line talent in Brendan Morrison to fill those two way center shoes.

The Caps also will benefit from a competitive goaltending battle. Jose Theodore was donned the number one crown by head coach Bruce Boudreau over the summer. That meant Semyon Varlamov and Michal Neuvirth would have to fight for the back up position. Don't think of it as a headache, it is a nice problem to have.

A healthy defensive core should also be a plus for the Capitals this season. The returning group will have new comer Tyler Sloan in tow for the '09 - '10 season. With players ready to expect how each of them plays their position, it should make for a stronger defensive core. Mike Green will add some offensive punch to the blue line, while John Erskine will make a few opposition forwards keep their heads up through the neutral zone.

Another positive for the Capitals is their penalty kill. With returning defensive specialists Dave Steckel, Boyd Gordon and new comer (and shot blocking machine) Quintin Laing, when the Caps do take a penalty they will be in good hands. The PK was flawless through the first three games of the preseason. But too many penalties can tax the players and throw off line combinations. It is best for this skill to be used as little as possible through the course of a game.

The Bad

Bad habits haunt the Capitals. Whether it is taking lazy penalties or not finishing their games, the Caps have a slew of bad habits they have to kick. They need to beat the teams that they need to beat as well as have good games against the teams that will challenge them through the year.

One aspect may help the Caps in that regard. Their schedule is a little tougher at the beginning and end of this season. They should be good barometers to gauge where this team falls in the league. Starting their season against some elite teams on the road in Boston and Detroit will hopefully show how good this team really is or what they have to work on early in the season.

Penalties are a sore spot for the Capitals. When they stop moving their feet, they start swinging with their sticks and that leads to a plethora of 2 minute infractions. The Caps can ill afford to allow good teams to play their best players with a man advantage. In many ways, it should be the other way around, the skill on the Caps should be drawing more penalties. For what ever the reason is, the Caps just can not stay out of the sin bin.

The Capitals also have to improve on their power play. While they showed some success late last season, they tend to get cute with the extra man. That has lead to shorthanded chances for their opponents. Not exactly how that is suppose to work. Coaches will have to shore up the special teams and get it back to basics (shots on net). The Caps most likely will put the puck onto the stick of Alex Semin, but don't be surprised to see Nick Backstrom quarterback for a few power plays either.

The Ugly

Micheal Nylander has been a "non-problem" problem for the Capitals. A forward with amazing skill that just doesn't fit the Boudreau mold and that has created problems for the Caps. Even before they have played their first game. In order to fit under the salary cap, management had to put Chris Bourque on waivers after telling him he had made the team.

It is clear that Boudreau and GM George McPhee aren't keen on having Nylander in the fold. But with little options left, he will be on the opening night roster since they do not want to buy him out of his contract. Nylander was signed when the team had a more defensive feel under Glen Hanlon, but the whole philosophy of the team has changed and Nylander has been left in the cold. He has not suited up for a single preseason game, and it is likely that he will not see ice time when the Caps open their season in Boston.

What the Caps will do with Nylander remains a mystery. What McPhee has been working on is pawning the forward off to Europe, but it's not likely that will happen anytime soon. What ever rift that lays between management and Nylander will most likely start to be a distraction as the season wears on. An elite player that earns just under $5 million is going to be making appearances in the press box more than the ice. That just doesn't sit well.

The other ugly thing about the Capitals season will be the condition of the ice at Verizon Center. An issue as the league's MVP will most likely playing on a surface of deep ruts and cold puddles on the Chinatown floor. I am sure that the phone booth staff is doing the best job with what they have. But having poor ice conditions that can possible endanger $56.8 million in player asset, the Caps should be looking into ways to improve the frozen stuff.

The Intangibles

February in Vancouver, the world will rear it's ugly head at a very beautiful city for the 2010 Winter Olympics. The Caps will have possibly 7 to 8 players that will compete. It will be 7 to 8 of the most irreplaceable and very expensive players that will play very competitively for a gold medal. McPhee, as well as the other 29 general managers, will be holding their breaths between February 15 and March 1.

The Prediction

There will be a lot of ups and downs for the Capitals this season. But their goal is closer now than it ever has been. There is a chip on the shoulders of the players, one can feel it just by being in the locker room. This is more than the game seven loss to Philadelphia two seasons ago, it's something much deeper, much more profound. They have learned some very hard lessons as they finished their season months ago. Those lessons should propel them through the tough times they will face as a team this season.

The Caps shouldn't have a problem within their division. Carolina and Florida are serious threats, but the Capitals have shown they can play with them and win. In the Eastern Conference there is more for the Caps to worry about. A strong team in Boston and New Jersey, a rivalry with the Penguins and Sidney Crosby, tough squads in Toronto and Philly and tough goaltenders in Tomas Vokoun, Henrik Lundqvist, Marc-Andre Fluery and more. They have the skill to beat any of those teams on any given night, and should.

I do predict the Capitals will make it to the number one spot in the East and should go far into the post season. I do predict that this team will make it to the Stanley Cup Finals. Whatever happens beyond that, I don't want to jinx it. Hey, I am a Caps fan after all.

Bring On The Cup '09 - Fearless Predictions Pt. 1

Can you believe it? It's playoff time, which means it is time to make some predictions. This will be the fourth straight year for PHT's fearless predictions and it's the most exciting due to the Capitals ranked second in the East and they wrapped up a playoff position two weeks before the end of the season.

There are a few newbies to the Playoffs from a year ago which makes this an exciting playoff season. Two Southeast Division teams find their way to the post season, the Blue Jackets get to the playoffs for the first time in franchise history, the Blues not only sneak in but get get a good ranking on their last game and the Blackhawks look tough to beat. So much going on!

Let's start in the West where it was a wild finish. Eastern predictions to follow tomorrow morning.

Round 1

#1 San Jose Sharks vs. #8 Anaheim Ducks - It is an interesting matchup to say the least. The Ducks and Sharks do not really like each other, and going into playoff series with one another is not going to help the situation much. The Sharks however might be a tad too powerful for the Ducks this year, considering goaltending has been the Ducks weak point this season. J.S. Giguere could be the back up. The Ducks will play some tough defense and it should be a good test for the number one team in the league. But the Shark's solid goaltending should win out the day in Evgeni Nabokov.

Sharks win in 7 games.

#2 Detroit Red Wings vs. #7 Columbus Blue Jackets - Central Division rivals meet up for the first time in the playoffs. Actually every thing the Blue Jackets do will be for the first time, since this is their first trip to the post season in franchise history. The BJ's have a tough hill to climb if they are thinking of surpassing the Red Wings who hold the season series over them. The Red Wings are at the top, if not the first, in every category in the league. The Jackets are just trying to do well and they will behind phenom rookie goaltender Steve Mason. If Chris Osgood can keep it together that is.

Red Wings win in 5 games.

#3 Vancouver Canucks vs. #6 St. Louis Blues - Look who just crashed the playoff party, the St. Louis Blues. Hard work and determination do pay off. But it is going to be a short playoff series if the Blues can't stop the offensive juggernaut of the Vancouver Canucks while at the same time solving the arguably the league's best goaltender in Roberto Luongo. No easy task. I am afraid that the Blues venture into the post season might be short lived, Vancouver is just on too much of a roll these days to be stopped by a Blues team that has to keep up their intensity and strong forecheck if they want to be successful.

Canucks take it in 6 games.

#4 Chicago Blackhawks vs. #5 Calgary Flames - Proven leadership. That is what this series is going to be about. Jerome Iginla is the poster boy for leadership and he has lead this team to a finals already. Calgary's first test however will start on the road against a young and budding team that is not short on talent. The Blackhawks will have to depend on their goaltending here, Nikolai Khabibulin gets the edge in that department. His experience and tenacious play of late will help the Blackhawks do well. But I just think Calgary's leadership will help them through. Experience over youth.

Flames win in 7 games.

Round 2 (probable matchups based on Round 1 predictions)

San Jose Sharks vs. Calagary Flames - The Sharks offense will be just too much for Calgary unless Miikka Kiprusoff can put together a consistent effort. The Flames will need much more than leadership if they want to continue on. But these two are not strangers in the post season. It should be a dirty, down out fight. But with solid goaltending and an offense that is confident in themselves, San Jose just has an edge.

Sharks win in 6 games.

Detroit Red Wings vs. Vancouver Canucks - This should be a good match up. I imagine Luongo will be at his best against the best. The Red Wings must rely heavily on Osgood in this one and I am just not sure if he is up for that challenge. The Canucks' offense has found a groove. If they keep it up, the Red Wings will have their hands full.

Canucks squeak by in 7 close games.

Western Conference Final

San Jose Sharks vs. Vancouver Canucks - Ooo, a Pacific Division final. Who would have thunk it? Two of the best offensive teams in the west gear up for a show down. Travel shouldn't be an issue with both teams in the Pacific time zone. Goaltending will be the big show down, Luongo and Nabokov will go head to head for their teams. What will be the factor is how fresh the Canucks will be after their tangle with the Red Wings. Both teams seem to be evenly matched in offense, defense and of course in net, but I don't think the Canucks have the experience to take it the distance. Should be one heck of a series.

Sharks win in 6 games.

I really like San Jose coming out of the west. I have predicted it now two years in a row. The Sharks seem to have things going for them as well as the Canucks, but every time I count out the Red Wings, they end up in the finals, again. I don't think the newcomers are in a position to overtake the top teams, but how I have been wrong before.

Eastern Conference predictions and my prediction of the Stanley Cup winner will come tomorrow morning. Then it is game on, bring on the playoffs and bring on the Stanley Cup. We are more than ready.

Eastern Conference Shake Down

Ok, let’s break it down. Here are my predictions on how the Eastern Conference is going to lay out from worst to first. Since the top three spots are reserved, those will be my picks for Division Champs. The list is ranked much like it would if it were the end of the season and we would see who’s in and who’s out of the playoffs. Again, worst to first.

#15 - Florida Panthers. This team just traded what could be considered the heart and soul of their team to Phoenix. Olli Jokinen lead the team in points, goals and assists. Now they don’t have anyone to replace that production. The Panthers are still stuck somewhere between an experienced team and a young team. Richard Zednik, Tomas Vokoun, Jay Bouwmeester and Corey Stillman seem to be the statesmen and they have extreme potential in young guys like David Booth and Shawn Matthias. The team will have to find it’s identity early, or find themselves at the bottom of the barrel.

#14 - New York Islanders. This team has the tools to do great things, but the way this team changes course so many times, it’s leaving not only the players and coaches heads spinning but the fans too. The Islanders looks like they are going to go the youth route with bringing Kyle Okposo into the fold late last season and shedding some older players in the process. Depth is a problem for the Isles, especially in net. If Rick DiPietro can stay healthy and the rest of the team can hold together, maybe it can be a different fate.

#13 - Atlanta Thrashers. There is no denying the Thrashers have a potent offense. That is not the problem. Their defense still waddles along with head hunter Andy Sutton, Ken Klee and Garnet Exelby on guard on the blue line. If you add recent addition Mathieu Schneider into the fold and it improves a little, but the whole blue line is starting to age and show it. Ilya Kovalchuk will get his goals, but if the rest of the team isn’t scoring behind him, the Thrashers will alienate their fans even more after their playoff appearance in what seemed like a lifetime ago.

#12 - Toronto Maple Leafs. Ron Wilson is just a coach. Not a miracle worker. This team is still in the process of being stripped so they can rebuild. However, with most of the heavy contracts now gone, so too does the talent go. If the Leafs are hoping that Nikolai Kulemin, Mikhail Grabovski, and Jiri Tlusty to carry the burden, then only Wilson’s good name keeps them from falling to the bottom.

#11 - Buffalo Sabres. This team is going to do the same thing they do every year, look good, then look bad, then look good, then look bad. Lindy Ruff’s system will have to be bought in by every one in order for this team to go anywhere. Just about the only good thing to come out of this off season maybe a healthy Teppo Numminen.

#10 - Philadelphia Flyers. This team had to reach deep down to barely make the playoffs last season. They were 2 points of just missing it if the Penguins hadn’t thrown the last game. The Flyers still have issues on the blue line to contend with and they can’t depend on Marty Biron to carry them through the season like they did through the playoffs. This team will also have to depend on some scoring instead of muscle to win games. They are guilty of taking a penalty or two too much. If Simon Gagne is fully healthy and Mike Richards shows he can be a good leader, then maybe they can sneak in again. If Pittsburgh lets them.

#9 - Tampa Bay Lightning. I do think this team can do well. If the team can find the right chemistry and if Barry Melrose knows what he is doing. If not, it could be a big disappointment for Lightning fans. Yes, on paper this team looks very, very good. But the game isn’t played on paper. Tampa needs the pieces to fall into place with the mix of youth and experience. Although there are too many veterans on this team to totally count them out.

Playoff-bound

#8 - Boston Bruins. Tim Thomas is like a coin flip, he can either be spectacular or very bad. Good thing Manny Fernandez is back healthy. However, it’s not whose in net that is going to help or hurt the Bruins. It’s going to be their lack of offensive production that give them fits this year. One good thing on the horizon for the B’s will be getting Patrice Bergeron back into the line up. With Zdeno Chara still manning the blue line, they should be able to sneak back in to the playoffs, where they have proven they can make a little noise.

#7 - New York Rangers. Tom Renney is going back to basics. After losing one of the league’s best scorers to the KHL, he has to focus now on what he has. And what he has is a pretty good defensive core. With the offensive prowess gone, the Rangers will have to pick up the slack defensively. Newly acquired Wade Redden will help in that regard. Also off season pick up Markus Naslund will help to fill in Jaromir Jagr’s goal tallies. As long as Henrik Lundqvist stays sharp, the Rangers may back their way into the playoffs.

#6 - New Jersey Devils. Every time you count them out, they make it in. This will be a very tough team again this year defensively (as always). Start with Marty Brodeur and work your way out if you want examples of a competitive team. The only way this team will falter is if the offense goes to sleep. This team will always find a way to get a playoff spot, they always seem to get it done.

#5 - Carolina Hurricanes. This team had the playoffs in their hands last season, only to lose the final game of the season. Instead they watched as the Washington took the Southeast crown. If that isn’t motivation for this team to have a better year, I am not sure what will be. But the ‘Canes have already started out rocky, several injuries on the out set could set them back.

#4 - Ottawa Senators. When the Senators are healthy, they are a force. If they are not 100%, they are soft. The return of the big three, Daniel Alfredsson, Jason Spezza and Danny Heatley will win you some games. The defensive core, that needs to find some cohesiveness, will lose you the rest. At least there will not be any Days of Our Lives drama with Martin Gerber in net. This team is still too good to miss the playoffs.

#3 - Pittsburgh Penguins. What? Not number one in the Eastern Conference? Yes. While you still have superstars Sid “the Kid” Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, this team should return as Division champions. However, with some key components missing this year, I figure the battle for top spot in the Conference with the still very hot Canadiens and Capitals would be a stretch for this team. The Penguins are still very dangerous, no doubt about that.

#2 - Washington Capitals. Did you think I wasn’t going to pick them for Division champs? If the Capitals play in any way, shape or form of how they ended last season, then this team is not only dangerous, but a contender for Conference champions as well. Bruce Boudreau will lead a team very similar to the team they ended with in April. The only question marks about this team is the Caps perceived “weak” defense and a new face between the pipes in Jose Theodore.

#1 - Montreal Canadiens. In their one hundredth season, the Canadiens are going to make it special. It finally seems they have put the pieces together and riding a young phenom goaltender in Carry Price has this team on the top of everyone’s charts. Quite simply, this team has 3 solid scoring lines with solid defense to back it up. Alex Kovalev must have a repeat season for them to win, but there are no signs to doubt he won’t. Guy Carbonneau has his team playing the right system.

Bring On The Cup '08 - Fearless Predictions Pt. 2

This one is especially hard for me. I want to look at this in a fair way and not have too much bias. Since this is the first time the Caps have reached the post season on my fearless predictions posts, I suddenly feel a strong conflict of interest.

It's also that the East is wide open. There is a mix of struggling teams and hot ones coming into the post season, it's hard to really pick a favorite, unless you're a homer like me (Go Caps!). These are just my gut predictions for the wide open East.

Round 1

#8 Boston Bruins at #1 Montreal Canadiens - If you looked up the word domination in the dictionary, there would be the regular season record the Canadiens had on the Bruins this year. 8 games, 8 wins. But that was regular season. Goaltending might be the key and since neither Carey Price or Tim Thomas really have any playoff experience. This might be a shooters affair and may the best goaltender survive. While the Habs have had the Bruins' number this year, we are talking history here between these two clubs. Boston, Montreal, an original six series. It should be a hard fought, very long series. If it does come down to offense, Boston is just a step behind.

Montreal wins in 6 games.

#7 Ottawa Senators at #2 Pittsburgh Penguins - Two teams in opposite directions. The Senators started the season so strong that many were doubting that the Sens could be caught in the east. Not only were they caught, they darn near missed the whole post season. To add insult, they have injuries. Daniel Alfredsson, the heart of the Senators, most likely will be sidelined. On the flip side, the Penguins are looking at some goaltending issues. They still have two net minders that seem to run hot and cold and it looks like Marc-Andre Fleury will get the start. The Penguins had a choice in the last game of the season, play a physical series with cross state rivals the Flyers or play the already beat up Senators. Hmm, sit Crosby and sit on your hands for three periods boys, lets go in against the lesser of two evils. Afterall, first place is first place.

Pittsburgh wins in 5 games.

#6 Philadelphia Flyers at #3 Washington Capitals - Good vs. Evil. That is what some are calling this series. A physical hard nosed team versus the feel good story of the season. The Flyers have come a long way since their lowly finish dead last the year before. The Capitals weren't that far off. This should be a battle, very physical and I wouldn't be surprised to see a few fights per game. While the Caps have seemed to solve their goaltending problems, Philly's status is still in the air. Marty Biron has played spectacular at times, and poor for the rest. Offense is pretty even and if the Flyers start taking stupid penalties, lights out.

Washington wins in 6 games.

#5 New York Rangers at #4 New Jersey Devils - The metro series. Talk about an easy commute. The Rangers look to avenge their quick exit from 2 seasons ago when the Devils swept them in the first round. The Devils will once again ride the coat tails of one Mr. Marty Brodeur for as long as they can. Like two years ago, I expect this to be a hard fought series, meriting a seventh game to decide. Rather than what really happened when the Rangers tanked and were out in four. For any hope of the Rangers to move on is if Jaromir Jagr is playing to his potential. If Jagr isn't into it, then the Rangers will struggle at the Rock.

New Jersey wins in 7 games.

Round 2 - probable match ups based on 1st round predictions.

Washington Capitals at Montreal Canadiens - If the Hurricanes hadn't tanked the last game, this could have been a first round match up. Now that the Caps have tasted post season, just how far their winning momentum will take them is in question. They will be pretty beaten up surviving a series with the Flyers, and that could slow down any hopes for a Cinderella story here. It should be a goaltending duel between former teammates. How's that for drama. My heart says the Caps, but my rational side says the Habs.

Montreal wins in 6 games. (But I wouldn't mind being wrong, Go Caps!)

New Jersey Devils at Pittsburgh Penguins - An Atlantic Division battle. These two teams just couldn't win in their own buildings against one another during the regular season. Maybe home ice advantage doesn't mean a whole lot here. The Penguins got a first round pass playing a demoralized Senators team. The Devils are coming off an emotional 7 game metro series. If the Penguins can't shake the rust, Sid "the Kid" Crosby will be finding tee times a bit earlier than planned. Maybe they should have skated against the Flyers, toughen them up a bit.

New Jersey wins in 5 games.

Eastern Conference Championship

New Jersey Devils at Montreal Canadiens - If the Canadiens came this far beating an age old rival and an upstart talent, what makes you think that Broudeur will scare the breezers off of them. The Devils made a run, but their scoring is key. They can play defense with the best of them, but they are going up against a team that knows how to score. I am actually quite surprised that the Devils did get this far. But think of that red New Jersey sweater as the carpeting for the coronation of the Canadiens winning the Eastern Conference championship.

Montreal wins in 5 games.

The Devils are just a different team in the playoffs and I can see them making quick work of both the Rangers and Penguins. As for Montreal, this might be all or bust for them. They will be playing like it. When you have that kind of desperation, it's hard to beat a team that has committed like that.

Stanley Cup Final

Montreal Canadiens at San Jose Sharks - This should be fun to watch. Both teams will be on a mission, both will have been tested to this point. But how do you pick a winner?

Let's start with goaltending, Carey Price may have won in the minors but will that help him in the finals. Evgeni Nabokov has been down this road a time or two, you can bet he isn't intimidated. Advantage: Sharks.

The defense for the Canadiens continues to impress, even with the loss of Sheldon Souray. For the Sharks there is just Brian Campbell, a trade deadline pickup. While the Sharks defense may have some bite offensively, they still rely on Nabokov a bit too much. Advantage: Canadiens.

With names like Joe Thornton, Jonathan Cheecho and Patrick Marleau, you would think that would be an All Star line. But the Candiens know how to put the puck in the back of the net too, even against the toughest of goaltenders. Advantage: Draw.

Special teams are important to any series, in the Finals they are essential. Penalty kills and power plays for both teams are important, and the Canadiens are masters of the extra man. Advantage: Canadiens.

Coaching is a position sometimes not discussed in predictions, but it is important to each team. Ron Wilson will have his troops ready, and he does have a bit more coaching experience in the post season than his counterpart Guy Carbonneau. Advantage: Sharks.

While both teams can play the tough role and the scoring role, it will be a battle of endurance. It will come down to who wants it more.

San Jose are Stanley Cup Champions in 6 games.

With Jeremy Roenick in the fold and some hot goaltending, I like the Sharks chances here. Plus they had a good record against Eastern Conference teams during the regular season. I think this whole notion of the west being a cut above the east is bull, but what ever keeps them happy. The Capitals always seem to have success against Western Conference teams when they go on their little road swings. But I do think that the Sharks have better personnel in this match up with the Habs. Canada is so close to bringing the Cup back, yet so far away.

Bring On The Cup '08 - Fearless Predictions Pt. 1

Welcome to the third annual Bring On The Cup predictions on P.H.T. I just have to say that I am more than excited to get this ball rolling with the Caps securing a playoff spot of their own. Unfortunately, Gary Bettman isn't just going to hand the Stanley Cup to the Capitals, there are 16 other teams in contention for this silver bowl (hard to believe, I know).

Just some administrative duties to attend to first. The Capitals playoff schedule is now in stone and can be found here on the right column >>> under the Pic of the Week. The Caps get Philly instead of Ottawa in the first round after the Flyers beat the Penguins on Sunday 2-0.

Okay, back to the predictions. There are some surprises and some new faces, especially in the Eastern Conference. But as always, I will start in the wild, wild West.

Round 1

#8 Nashville Predators at #1 Detroit Red Wings - I think it's easy to pick Detroit here, and I think that's also a mistake. Nashville definitely didn't look like a team that was going to make it, especially after a loss to the Capitals a few weeks ago. But with the Northwest Division being a battle, the Preds sneak in the back door and get some playoff life. It's just that they have to face down big bad Detroit in the first round. Just how healthy the Wings are could determine if it's a one and done for the President's Trophy winners. I can see the Predators giving the Red Wings more than they can handle. But we are talking about Hockeytown.

Detroit wins in 6 games.

#7 Calgary Flames at #2 San Jose Sharks - Oh lord, let's hope that the San Jose fans mind their manners and not boo at the Canadian Anthem. Besides that, I am expecting a very physical affair between these two. San Jose has finally started hitting on all cylinders, after a ho hum start to nearly going undefeated in March. For the Flames, Jerome Iginla probably would have won the Hart for MVP if it weren't for that Ovechkin guy, he has basically carried this team into the playoffs himself. But he needs some help if they want to solve Evgeni Nabokov. Both teams are relatively healthy so this should be a hard fought series. If only the Flames goaltending was as solid as the Sharks this year.

San Jose wins in 5 games.

#6 Colorado Avalanche at #3 Minnesota Wild - Ah, my seven game series match up. The Wild have had a quiet but effective season while the Avalanche have struggled to make the playoffs. Minnesota has the skill, but their state of emotion will be the deciding factor. Sure the Wild has bulked up with the addition of Chris Simon, but the rule of thumb playing the Wild is be physical and they will lay down. The Aves are just looking for some old time magic to spark their once proud playoff tradition by bringing back Adam Foote and Peter Forsberg. It should be a great goaltending duel with Jose Theodore and Niklas Backstrom both manning the net for their teams. Will the Avalanche's experience be enough to out battle Wild's speed and talent? Short answer, no.

Minnesota wins in 7 games.

#5 Dallas Stars at #4 Anaheim Ducks - The Stars are coming off a relatively successfully season. I say relative, because their record since the trade deadline is nothing to write home about. Since acquiring Brad Richards their once winning record in February became a losing one in March. They will also be with out Sergei Zubov on the blue line as he is out with foot surgery. While the Ducks found some late legs with Teemu Selanne and Scott Niedermayer back in the fold, they still need some dependable goaltending and good secondary scoring. One could draw a conclusion that the Ducks have an easy opponent in the Stars, but often when one overlooks any team, that is when they are the most dangerous. The Stars might be limping, but they still have some fight.

Dallas upsets the Stanley Cup Champs in 6 games.

Round 2 - probable match ups based on 1st round predictions.

Dallas Stars at Detroit Red Wings - This is stirring up to be an all out shoot out, two very talented teams. The Stars have to be pretty beat up walking through the Ducks, so I don't expect they have very much fight left in them. Thankfully, Detroit is known more for their puck possession rather than the Ducks' beat-you-down method. If the Stars still have the legs, they could take Detroit to the brink. If.

Detroit wins in 5 games.

Minnesota Wild at San Jose Sharks - If the Wild's first series wasn't a battle royale it better be against the Sharks. It should be another great goaltender head to head with Backstrom and Nabokov with the waffle irons and mitts on. This is were Minnesota's toughness will have a chance to prove it's worth and San Jose should be wary of this quiet unassuming team.

San Jose wins in 6 games.

Western Conference Championship

San Jose Sharks at Detroit Red Wings - I actually predicted this two season ago, and it seems this might be the year we see these two giants settle it out in the conference championship. Detroit has come this far pretty unscathed, but this will be no cake walk for them. If there was ever a time to question the Red Wings' goaltending, it would be here and now in the Conference finals. The Sharks come into this contest battle tested and hungry. When these two teams face each other, I wouldn't be surprised to feel the ground quake and the skies quiver. Can Hasek/Osgood keep this Wings in it?

San Jose wins in 7 games.

The Sharks, I think, have learned their lesson from playoff series past. The previous two post seasons they faced Nashville and beat them 4 games to one, only to lose the next series 2-4 to both Edmonton and Detroit. But if the linage runs much as I have laid out here, they have had wonderful success against Northwest Division teams. Facing them in the first and second rounds is a good indicator that leads me to believe they are a Conference bound team. Since losing last year to the Red Wings I would expect Ron Wilson to use that as some inspiration in the Shark locker room.

As for the Red Wings, I think they will enjoy the spoils of winning the President's Trophy and will make quick work of their first two opponents. But if the goaltending is tested by a playoff veteran team like the Sharks, it may crack. The only bright spot may be home ice advantage.

Stay tuned for some Eastern knowledge I will be throwing your way next as I will start in on the Eastern Conference tomorrow. Feel free to comment. I will also have my prediction on who will be taking home the hardware, hockey's top prize: the Stanley Cup.

The Duck Is Mightier Than The Sens

It was over when Chris Phillips mishandled the puck in Ray Emery's legs and the puck trickled through. That was the moment. The Senators demeanor had changed, they were unsure and couldn't muster any shots. It shouldn't have been that way. That isn't how a series is suppose to end. But Anaheim will take it.

The Ducks burned the Senators in a 6 - 2 win. They win their first Stanley Cup. It was a series cut way too short. Ottawa's hot offense just didn't carry. Anaheim is a big physical fast team, and they used it to demoralize the Senators.

Scott Niedermayer is your Conn Smythe winner as most valuable player. If Niedermayer didn't get it, Daniel Alfredsson should have. J.S. Gigere was also in the running as Most Valueable Player in the Finals.

Gary Bettman is a horrible public speaker. And I am only writing that because I am listening to it right now. No mention on how good the series was, or how great Ottawa battled. And why should he, he is playing to the home crowd. Anaheim is the first west coast team to win the Cup, again information related by our fearless leader, Bettman.

So I totally missed this one in terms of predicting a winner. I said that Ottawa would win one for a Canadien city. But that wasn't meant to be. Good thing I don't get paid for things like that.

Guys I am happy to see lifting the Cup right now:
Teemu Selanne
Dustin Penner
Rob and Scott Niedermayer
J.S. Giguere
Brad May
Brian Burke

Guys I hated seeing lifting it:
Chris Pronger
Corey Perry

That is it. Anaheim gets it. It somehow seems weird and uncomfortable, but you can't deny how this team battled. It's a team you love to hate but respect. You know every fan wants a team like this one.

Bring On The Cup '07 - Finals Predictions

The NHL is stewing, Kevin Lowe is celebrating, NBC is fiddling, Ottawa and Anaheim are prepairing, and Hockey Fans every where are watching. It's the Stanley Cup Finals, finally. NHL still would like to see it's bigger markets (NY, Det, Toronto, etc.) to make a finals, Kevin Lowe gets a first round pick from the Ducks for the next ten years, NBC will change the schedule at some point and I have a Hi-Def television and no Hi-Def service.

I didn't come close this year on picking a winner. I really thought Buffalo had a shot this year, but who would have guessed a hit on Chris Drury midway through the season would leave the Sabres gun shy. As far as Anaheim was concerned, I really thought that their goaltending was an issue. Instead, it's been a large plus when it was needed.

It's crunch time now, who lifts the Cup? Ottawa or Anaheim. Having some time to "research" (another way of saying falling asleep on the couch and forgetting to post), I have more of a feel for who might have the edge. One thing that makes this series tough to predict is that the Ducks and Senators don't have a history with one another for this season.

Some key players for Anaheim who have to preform well are J.S. Giguere and Teemu Selanne. Giguere will be playing against a much better offense than Detroit. Ottawa has the hottest offense on the ice right now thanks to Daniel Alfredsson and Jason Spezza. Selanne has to carry this team by example. I would expect the Duck defense to be solid through out the series, with Scott Niedermayer and Chris Pronger manning the blue line.

For Ottawa, Ray Emery will be tested and Danny Heatley has to play like he has been in the previous series. For Emery there will be much bigger bodies in front of him, a quicker counter attack, and thunderous shots through traffic from the blue line. Heatley must also continue to be a good two way player for the Senators to have a chance. While the Ducks defense is tough, the Senators are a little smaller back there, and forwards back checking will decide Ottawa's fate.

I predict that the Ottawa Senators will lift the Cup and bring it back to Canada in 6 games.

Anaheim is a big, tough, physical team. But I also think they look for the hit more than the goal. They haven't faced a team this post season that can dish it as good as them, until now. Ottawa has the toughness and the size to play with Anaheim, plus this team is playing the best hockey of anyone who made the playoffs this year. I felt that Detroit's offense turned cold, and Anaheim basically pounded their way to a victory. They will not be able to do that with an Ottawa team that can match them for size and speed. Any way you chop it, I really like Ottawa in this fight.

Conference Finals Recap

Who could've predicted this? Well, not me. If you asked me that it would be Ducks and Senators in the Stanley Cup Finals, I would have said no way! Ray Emery would have to be the best goaltender in their previous series, as would J.S. Giguere. Both teams offenses would have to produce more than they have been. And both teams would have to face strong defensive teams and some all star goaltenders to make it to the end.

I guess all that happened.

Eastern Conference

Senators/Sabres
I predicted, "Sabres in seven" Reality: Wrong! Senators in 5
The Senators did their job a few months earlier. It was a big hit on Chris Drury by Chris Neil. Buffalo just wasn't the same in the post season as they were in the regular season. They lost their swagger, they lost their mojo, they just lost. Ryan Miller was spectacular in net for them, what more could be said. They just stopped shooting the puck, they stop passing, they stopped playing. Now Buffalo faces an uncertain off seas son. The Senators were the better team. This team is playing really good hockey right now thanks to their captain, Daniel Alfredsson. They are back checking and scoring. This could be the year of the Senators.

Western Conference

Red Wings/Ducks
I predicted "Wings in 6 games" Reality: Wrong! Ducks in 6
Just when I was starting to like this team, becoming a closet Wing Nut fan, Detroit just couldn't play that rough style of hockey against the goons themselves play. And of course Giguere picked up his game. The Ducks were all about being the biggest bully on the playground. Detroit just couldn't get their offense to score at key times. The Red Wings had some unfortunate bounces and some untimely give aways, but this has been a much better team in years past. They just couldn't run with the Ducks in the end. Too much size, too much offense.

Ducks and Senators. Predictions coming soon.

Bring On The Cup '07 - Fearless Predictions Conf. Finals

This looks familiar, Anaheim and Buffalo both in the Conference Finals for a second year in a row. The two now have the possibility to play in the "what could have been" series from a season ago. But of course the two face some pretty mighty opponents before that ship has sailed.

Eastern Conference

Ottawa Senators at Buffalo Sabres

The Sabres have sort of plodded along this post season. At the beginning of the year they seemed unstoppable. They were run and gun. They enjoyed a speedy game and loved the open ice. The Senators on the other hand were picked apart by free agency over the summer. The looked less like a team that could go to the playoffs, let alone the Eastern Conference Finals. These two have attacked the post season in some pretty different ways. But the result has been the same.

For Buffalo to win, they have to shed this funk they are in. Lindy Ruff has them playing a more defensive role in the post season, and that may play into the hands of a team that has beaten a defensive orientated team. Ottawa just needs to keep its scoring machine oiled and ready to go again. For the goaltenders, this should be the ultimate test. Ray Emery must be solid in the net against one of the most potent offenses in the league. Ryan Miller will have to deal with the most potent offense in the post season.

Sabres wins series in 7 games

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings at Anaheim Ducks

This is why you get Todd Bertuzzi. This is why you traded your number one draft pick and a rookie for brute strength. To face Anaheim. The Ducks are mean, they are big, they are tough, and they will hurt your line up. Detroit has found their post season offense finally, and aren't afraid to mix it up a little themselves. And Todd Bertuzzi is Detroit's key.

For Anaheim, if it ain't broke, run it in to the boards until some thing does. They have to remain a physical team and wear down Detroit. But beware, go out of you way to knock a block off, and you will be sitting with San Jose and Calgary scratching your head. J.S. Gigere has been okay, this post season. He will have to be spectacular if the Ducks wish to advance. Detroit's game has been simplified. Play tough, go to the net, score. It's worked. Pavel Datsyuk must be a threat again and the Red Wings must stay healthy. Dominik Hasek is Hasek. He is going to let in a couple of softies, but he stays focused, Detroit will be singing a Stanley Cup tune.

Red Wings wins series in 6 games

How's that for a shocker. Anaheim, in my opinion, has face two relative easy teams in the post season. They have yet to face a worthy challenge. The Red Wings will be ready to take them on and test them out. It's a question of who is more battle ready. The Sabres will make their series interesting, maybe dropping a couple key games. But Lindy will be there to set the boys straight. Only one round away from crowning a champ.

Conference Semis Recap

Okay, Detroit is serious. And while the NHL might be disappointed that the Broadway Blue Shirts are out of the playoffs, they have to be excited that Detroit is still there. I am a bit disappointed though than none of this round's series made it to seven games. It seemed that teams that had the opportunity to put their opponent away, they did so.

Western Conference

Sharks/Red Wings
I predicted "San Jose wins in 7 games" - Reality: Way off, Detroit wins in 6
The Red Wings got a little lucky, then they got offense when they needed it. Pavel Datsyuk has no trouble scoring anymore in the playoffs, instead he is blooming in the post season. Another important element that Detroit had over San Jose was the ability to stay healthy. With Todd Bertuzzi hitting everything in sight and Chris Chelios playing like it's the end of his career, this is a very, very dangerous team right now. My Series MVP: Pavel Datsyuk

Canucks/Ducks
I predicted "Ducks wins in 6 games" - Reality: A game off, Ducks win in 5
The Vancouver Canucks just didn't have enough offense to match up with Anaheim. Although I was pulling for them, the Canucks could do little against a much bigger tougher team. Roberto Luongo was fantastic in this series, like he was in the series before. They just don't have the tools in front of them to push Vancouver over the edge. My Series MVP: Roberto Luongo

Eastern Conference

Rangers/Sabres
I predicted "Buffalo wins in 5 games" - Reality: Sabres win in 6
The Rangers couldn't beat this team if it got into a up-and-down-the-ice shoot out, so the beared down and basically focused on defense. It worked for a couple of games, until game 5. With a tying goal seven seconds left in regulation, and a shocker winner in overtime, the Rangers folded and Buffalo found its scoring touch again. I am surprised that the Rangers got a were even able to win a game, clearly Buffalo was the better team. No matter what Jaromir Jagr says. My Series MVP: Chris Druuuuuuuuuuuury

Devils/Senators
I predicted "Ottawa wins in 5 games" - Reality: Dead on, Senators win in 5
I always get one prediction head on, and then I feel that I am a big know it all. Ottawa is playing crazy good hockey right now, and wouldn't be surprised if this team has the gumption to go the distance. Although New Jersey was an easy opponent, having no real offensive threat that materialized and a Marty Broduer that looked a little shakey in net. My Series MVP: Daniel Alferdsson

3 out 4, not bad. Now it gets serious, Conference Finals. Who has the right to play for the Cup? Ottawa or Buffalo? Detroit or Anaheim? Fearless Predictions to follow.

Winners

• Buffalo Sabres Fans, who were little on taunting and more on celebrating. There had to be about four thousand tin foil Stanley Cups in the crowd. Not much to do up in Buffalo, I guess.
• Roberto Loungo, who now has a job in net for Vancouver for years to come. Still a myster or not if there will be a team good enough in front of him to win in the playoffs.
• The Senators, getting that playoff upset monkey off their back. But now their fans will just want more.

Losers

• Anaheim Camera operators, are you kidding me? It's like sitting through a 5 year old's attempt at finding where's waldo. I was suffering from dementia after watching a game in Anaheim. The worst camera work since NYPD Blue.
• Sean Avery's comments before the Buffalo series, don't say it unless you mean it, and don't say unless your team is good enough to win. Avery, a Messier you are not.
• NBC scheduling monster, for making life hard on everyone just because you're NBC. Forcing game changes and trying to make games end on their time. Stay out of it NBC, just broadcast the games.

Bring On The Cup '07 - Fearless Predictions Rd. 2

The top seeds pretty much dominated the first round. Besides San Jose and New York Rangers, home ice has meant everything for the Conference Semi-finalists. While I went for shock in my first predictions, I will be going more safe this time around.

Eastern Conference

New York Rangers @ Buffalo Sabres
The Rangers are showing some more emotion. Just look at Jaromir Jagr's face on the goals he scored. It's not the Rangers offense that has hit a stride, it's been their defense that suddenly came to life. Atlanta is no Buffalo, and that Ranger defense and goaltending will be tested. They will be facing a faster, more creative team in Buffalo. The Thrashers/Rangers series may have been a mis-match, but Buffalo will be more of a challenge.

Sabres wins in 6 games

Ottawa Senators @ New Jersey Devils
The Devils have a formula that has worked for them. It's the most boring type of hockey, but it works. Not to mention if you beat the trap, there is one of the best goaltenders in the NHL guarding the net to back up his team. Teams that fall into the trap, get bit. Just ask the Lightning. But Ottawa may have more arsenal to put the Devils to their paces. Ray Emery has a tough challenge in front of him to match the play of Martin Broduer.

Senators wins in 5 games

Western Conference


Vancouver Canucks @ Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks are big and tough. Their physical play wear down teams. The way to beat it, is to score goals. Vancouver has to find its offensive touch or it will just get creamed by a very big and dangerous Duck team. Roberto Luongo will be sick of seeing Ducks in his crease. He will have to stay strong to win. "Luo" has to frustrate Duck scorers, or it will be a turkey shoot. No pun intended, I think.

Ducks wins in 6 games

San Jose Sharks @ Detroit Red Wings
The Sharks went through a battle as did the Wings. This is the series to watch. Both are big, tough and have their scoring touches. The Red Wings shooting gallery they enjoyed against the Flames is a thing of the past. They are facing a better defensive team that can also turn and burn. For the Sharks, it is important for them to stay healthy. The Red Wings are a deep team that stayed pretty healthy through their first series. The hits should be big, the goals will be highlight material, and the games will be close.

San Jose wins in 7 games

I will be cheering on the Canadien teams, for karma reasons. I would really like to see Ottawa and Vancouver do well. This round should feature some good hockey.

Recap Round 1 Predictions

I would have guessed that many of this year's series would have been closer. There was only one series last year that went to a game 7 in the first round, I had predicted 4 games would see the dreaded deciding final game. So much for that thought. It was only Vancouver and Dallas that experienced a game 7 in this year's first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Eastern Conference

Rangers/Thrashers
I predicted "Atlanta wins in 5 games" - Reality: Rangers win in 4 games
Wow, um, well... that was short. The Thrashers really screwed this one up. I bought a carton of milk today and on the side of the 1/2 gallon container was Atlanta's Offense with a big "Missing" title above it. My Series MVP: Henrik Lundqvist

Sabres/Islanders
I predicted "Buffalo wins in 6 games" - Reality: Buffalo wins in 5 games
Close, just a game shy. The Islanders just were not as deep as the Sabres. Islanders had no problem playing physical, but couldn't match the talent. How about Dainius Zubrus turning on the playmaking in the post season? My Series MVP: Adam Mair

Devils/Lightning
I predicted "Tampa Bay wins in 7 games" - Reality: New Jersey wins in 6
The Lightning just played right into the Devils hands, and New Jersey just outlasted the Lightning with the dreaded trap. Marty Broduer proves that he is the catalyst of this team, when he plays well, so do the Devils. My Series MVP: Martin Broduer

Senators/Penguins
I predicted "Ottawa wins in 7 games" - Reality: Ottawa wins in 5 games
Oh happy day, the Senators finally shake the first round curse and now gain some confidence especially in their offensive game. Ray Emery also looked really good and has Ottawa fans saying, "Hasek who?" Sid "the Kid" Crosby's Whine O' the Week - a dry but fruity 2007 entitled: "I think I broke my foot in March." He thinks he broke it, people. My Series MVP: Daniel Alfredsson

Western Conference

Ducks/Wild
I predicted "Minnesota wins in 7" - Reality: Anaheim wins in 5 games
The Ducks just punished the Wild. Minnesota didn't use it's speed as much as they should have. The Wild clearly had the better goaltender while their offense was sporadic and unreliable. The Ducks were just too big and too physical. Anaheim got a little too physical in some cases, that needs to calm down a little or people will start calling you Nashville. My Series MVP: Niklas Backstrom

Red Wings/Flames
I predicted "Detroit wins in 6" - Reality: Dead on, Detroit wins in 6 games
I can pretty much sum this series up by saying that this was the Red Wings vs. Miikka Kiprusoff. My Series MVP: Miikka Kiprusoff

Sharks/Predators
I predicted "San Jose wins in 7" - Reality: San Jose wins in 5 games
Nashville came out too physical in their rematch of a season ago. They never recovered and San Jose called their number, again. If you think this rivalry is hot, just wait until they meet again next year. My Series MVP: Joe Thornton

Canucks/Stars
I predicted "Vancouver in 5 games" - Reality: Vancouver wins in 7 games
Goaltending, goaltending, goaltending. Roberto Luongo and Marty Turco shut down two inconsistent offenses and it became a battle of wills. If you thought Turco just doesn't have it in him to win, you obviously need to watch this series again. He was spectacular posting two straight shutouts. In the end though, Vancouver just outlasted the Stars. Shame too, because Dallas looked to be the stronger team. My Series MVP: Tie Roberto Luongo, Marty Turco

I correctly guessed 5 winners and nailed only one series down to the game. Hopefully next round will be better. Anyway, here are your 1st round winners and losers.

Winners

• Versus for doing a good job at live look-ins and staying on top of every game. They continued their good work from last season at keeping everything hockey. If this was an ESPN broadcast, we would have heard mostly NBA Playoff news between periods.


• Miikka Kipursoff, even though the Flames lost. Kip played spectacular. Too bad the Flames couldn't put a win together on the road.


• New York Rangers for showing up for a series, finally. NHL has to be giddy that some major markets made it out of the first round like NY, Anaheim (L.A. area) and Detroit.


• The whole Vancouver/Dallas series. This is what playoff hockey is all about, great hockey played on both sides. The right amount of physical play, great goals and some pretty good overtime thrillers.

Losers

• Sean Hill's drug (or rather performance enhancing) antics becoming a distraction for his Islander team at a very pivotal time.


• Jamie McLennan's attempt to make a difference in the Wings/Flames series by giving a couple of good whacks at Johan Franzen, Karma will always bite you in the butt in the playoffs. Some good whacks though ("Chop that wood!").


• Atlanta Thrashers quietly going into that silent night. I don't expect this team to get over it for some time. Hey Thrashers, instead of trying to knock the heads off of the Rangers, how about playing some hockey? This might have been their only shot for a while.


• The New Jersey/Tampa Bay series. Did anyone even watch it? If so, name a pivotal point in the series other than a great save by Marty Broduer. If you can't, than you just wasted good playoff hockey watching the bore that was Devils vs. Lightning.

Predictions soon to come for Round 2, Conference Semis!

Bring On The Cup '07 - Fearless Predictions Pt.2

The weather is getting warmer… blah, blah, blah, Stanley Cup Playoffs, blah, blah, blah. It's the East’s turn.

The Eastern Conference has been nothing but high drama going into the post season. It took the last game of the season to decide who was in and who was out. No pressure there, huh? The Islanders slipped into the 8 spot over Toronto with a shootout win in New Jersey. The face of playoff teams has drastically changed in the East with Pittsburgh, Atlanta and the New York Islanders joining the post season festivities. Missing are Cup defenders Carolina, Montreal and Philadelphia who are on the outside looking in after making the cut a season ago.

With out further ado, let’s do this thing and get to my fearless predictions for the Eastern Conference and your Conference winner:

Round 1

New York Islanders at Buffalo Sabres – If the Sabres aren’t careful, they could be sitting on the corner of disappointment and misery if they don't take the Islanders seriously. Buffalo has not needed a “must-win” game after taking the Conference by storm with a 113 points and proving that they were the team to beat in the east. That could prove costly facing an Islander team that has been doing nothing but fighting to get in the playoffs tooth and nail. Can Buffalo survive the battle hardened Isles? Maybe if Chris Simon hadn’t decked Ryan Hollweg, the first round would be more favorable for the Long Island squad.

Buffalo wins in 6 games

Tampa Bay Lightning at New Jersey Devils – Tampa Bay has a way of getting into the playoffs in a non-dominating way. But in the playoffs, they are a sleeper team and if they wake, they can make a lot of noise. If Vincent Lecavalier decides to turn on his offense in the post season and his partner in crime Martin St. Louis joins in, it’s not going to matter if Marty Brodeur is in net or not. Meanwhile the Devils’ heads are still spinning after their coach was fired and Lou Lamoriello jumped back behind the bench. It was a shocker for sure, but will it pay off for the Devils or be more of a distraction?

Tampa Bay wins in 7 games

New York Rangers at Atlanta Thrashers – Two teams that are hard to predict what they will do. Atlanta is in unfamiliar territory, the Rangers are only as good as Jaromir Jagr wants to be. The Rangers will need the “Brendan Shanahan effect” to do its magic if they want to best their last year’s mark. Atlanta needs some consistency from its star players, mainly Ilya Kovalchuck, and good goaltending. Atlanta doesn’t back down from a fight and the Rangers may not be tough enough to hang.

Atlanta wins in 5 games

Pittsburgh Penguins at Ottawa Senators – The Senators are not the team from a year ago. No Dominik Hasek, no Zdeno Chara, no Brian Potheir. That means their offense is their only defense. Good thing they matched up with the Penguins whose defense is just as blah. This series should be a high shooting affair, lots of goals and some really bad defense. It will be goaltending that is the key to whomever wins this series. Marc-Andre Fluery must be consistent for Pittsburgh or they are not going anywhere, new stadium deal or not. Sid "the Kid" Crosby will not be much of a factor, mostly here to learn than to dominate. Although, I do see a couple highlight reel goals for the Kid in this series. If nothing else this should be the most entertaining series of the playoffs, too bad we can't see these two duke it out in the Conference Finals.

Ottawa wins in 7 games

Round 2

Tampa Bay at Buffalo – Tampa Bay has a good team, but not that good. Buffalo may have had a scare against the Islanders but you can expect for them to shake that and make easy work of the Lightning. Tampa Bay just doesn’t have the firepower the Sabres have. Sad but true. And if it comes down to goaltending, I favor Ryan Miller.

Buffalo wins in 5 games

Atlanta at Ottawa – The Southeast Division certainly didn’t rack up the points this season. The Senators will gain the upper hand on the Thrashers after they reseed in the second round and Ottawa will gain home ice advantage. Good thing too, because Ottawa will need it. Atlanta will have to trust their goaltending and be the bruisers against the Senators. If they can’t out hit Ottawa, then it’s an early bow out of the playoffs. The Senators, however, are weak on defense and will have a hard time shutting down Atlanta’s talent.

Atlanta wins in 6 games

Eastern Conference Final

Atlanta at Buffalo – This is some familiar territory, the Sabres versus a Southeast Division foe. No question, it’s the Sabres year. It is their turn to take the east, and Atlanta will do little to stop them. If it were Carolina again, or Tampa Bay, or even Florida, Buffalo may have their hands full. The Thrashers goaltending from Kari Lehtonen has to be spectacular for them to have a chance against Buffalo. The Sabres’ speed will be too much. Atlanta could play them tough, but you can’t hit what you can’t catch up to. As far as goaltending goes, Miller should be pretty solid in net. It’s not even going to be close.

Buffalo goes on to the Stanley Cup Finals to face Vancouver in a quick 5 games

Stanley Cup Finals

Vancouver at Buffalo

My Finals prediction is just based on gut reaction to looking at these two matched up for a seven game series. Vancouver does have a good team, and Roberto Luongo will have given the Canucks something they never had before, a chance. But Luongo’s record against the Sabres isn’t a glowing one. That may be Buffalo’s edge. Buffalo fans will cheer, because I am predicting a Stanley Cup win favorable to the Sabres.

Buffalo wins the Cup in 7 games

If this is anything like last year, my Eastern Conference predictions will be closer to being correct than the Western Conference. After each round I like to assess how I did, then make new predictions based on what happened. Buffalo is my favorite out of the East, but I do think Anaheim could prove me wrong and that will screw my entire Western Conference predictions. Edmonton didn’t do me any favors last year, so why should any other team in the West.

I do believe there will be some upsets, but I don’t believe any 8 seeds will find themselves in the Finals like last year. The Islanders are just ready to make that kind of run, and Calgary has their own issues. For the most part, many of the top seeds learned their lessons from last season.

So enough talk already! Bring on the Stanley Cup!