Haven't been on in a while, but just in time for my favorite two months of the year, NHL Playoffs. Here are my predictions for the Western Conference:

San Jose vs. Colorado: The Sharks are notorious for choking when it counts, which is countered with the Avs lack of experience. San Jose has too much fire power with Thornton and Heatley and a solid goalie in Nabakov. The Sharks win in an easy five.

Chicago vs. Nashville: This is the most intriguing match up, in my opinion. The Blackhawks are filled with offensive firepower and a capable defensive core, but they lack consistent goaltending. Clearly, the Blackhawks are better than the Preds on paper, but Nashville comes in on a hot streak with possibly the hottest goalie in the League. Their trap style will frustrate the Hawks beyond belief. Additionally, Trotz has Nashville tough for the playoffs. In shocking fashion, I think the Preds will upset in 7.

Vancouver vs. L.A.: This is an interesting match up for me. The Kings have great goaltending in Quick, but he has faded as the year as the year waned. The Kings look tired, and that is not a good sign when entering Vancouver and the world of the Sedin's. I say Vancouver wins this one, but not without a fight. Canucks in 6.

Phoenix vs. Detroit: The Coyotes have a very hot goalie in Bryzgalov and a stellar defense, but they lack a consistent offensive and a potent Powerplay core. Goals will be hard to come by for Phoenix so Bryzgalov needs to play off his head. Detroit rolls into this game as the hottest team in the league. Howard, their goalie, has been spectacular as of late and Datsyuk and Zetterberg finally caught stride. I think Bryzgalov will keep Phoenix in the series, but Detroit prevails in 6 low-scoring games.