The whole 82-game season comes down to this: the post-season. A chance to win Sir Stanley’s cup. The first-round is staring today with some good match-ups between some heated rivalaries (Penguins/Flyers, Bruins/Canadiens, Sharks/Ducks)
EAST:
Boston vs. Montreal: Bruins will win in five games. Phil Kessel is on a roll
Washington vs. N.Y. Rangers: Capitals in six. Capitals strong offensive will be challenged by the Rangers’ tough defense.
New Jersey vs. Carolina: Canes will have the upset in six. Cam Ward is a rock for the Canes in net.
Pittsburgh vs. Philadelphia: Penguins in seven. Crosby and company won’t have the jitters they had a year ago and want the cup.
WEST:
San Jose vs. Anaheim: Sharks in five. San Jose might feel their No. 1 seed is a waste since they have to play the rival Ducks, but they will pull off the win.
Detroit vs. Columbus: Wings in four. Last year’s Stanley Cup winners will have no problem fending off Columbus.
Vancouver vs. St. Louis: Canucks in six. It will be Robert Luongo against the Blues’ offense, the hottest-second half team
Chicago vs. Calgary: Hawks in six. Calgary won’t be a problem for the young Hawks.