Ok so I slacked off pretty well and never did get my pick written up in article form but they did go up on twitter before game one. Here we go:
3rd Round Results
Otto
1-1 (9-5)
Misses: Rangers,
Dan
1-1 (7-7)
Misses: Rangers
Josh
2-0 (6-8)
Misses: None
Stanley Cup Finals Picks/Recap:
Going into the series I believed that if the Kings were going to roll, they were going to do so with defense and goaltending. Although they had gotten some offensive support early in the playoffs, it wasn't substantial and it had begun to fade as the playoffs progressed. We also knew that the Devils had the magic of Marty going for them as well as enough offensive weapons to allow them to stay in games, if they show up. Josh picked the Kings in 5, Dan and I took them in 6.
Well the Kings got the goaltending that they have grown to be so accustomed to, and the offense dug down and found a way to start scoring some goals. The Kings took games 1 through 3 in a row, looking confident while doing so. Games one and two went to overtime in NJ then game three in LA the Kings rolled, 4-0. Game 4 seemed to offer a bit of a letdown for the Kings, NJ took advantage and got a win to take the series back to NJ. After another win at home, the intrigue was beginning to grow, could the Devils sweep through the back half of the series as quickly as the Kings did the front half? Well a five minute span in the first period took away any of that notion as the Kings went up 3-0. They didn't let off the gas, adding another in the second period, as well as an empty netter followed by a strange looking one with only seconds remaining. The Kings only surrendered 1 goal against which came late in the third while they were up 4 to 1.
The Cup came to LA, 45 years after the teams inaugural season, they were Stanley Cup Champions. Congratulations to the LA Kings on an incredible run both through the end of the regular season and the playoffs.
4th Round Results & Final Standings
Otto
1-0 (10-5)
Picked the games correct
Dan
1-0 (8-7)
Picked the games correct
Josh
1-0 (7-8)
Missed the games by 1
Other Notes - Hockey season is officially over for about a period of 4 months. Although I am not the biggest NHL fan the idea of this isn't fun. I love being able to flip on the TV and catch a few minutes of whatever game might be on. I really with the IIHF tournament was after the NHL playoffs, not only so all of the players could play if they wanted but so that it could get more exposure.
I don't want to hear anything about the "controversial" hit that "cost the Devils the game." The theory is that if the boarding call was made earlier in the play the whistle would have blown and the hit by Bernier never would have happened. The fact is hockey is what it is. The officials missed a call on the previous hit, but its part of the game. Bernier went full speed from the blue line and crushed Scudieri from behind. While I may hate it when a defense man puts his back to the player coming and intentionally turns his face to the boards, it doesn't change the fact that you can't hit him, especially going full speed. The no call dd not cause the penalty.
Another complaint was the "pick" the linesman "set" on the first Kings goal. They officials are part of the game, they get in the way more often then they do not, especially with 4 of them on the ice. Fortunately for most they are not as noticeable as the poor guy that not leveled and then stuck in the face by the Devils defense man. The pick itself did not score the goal for the Kings, in fact Marty made a nice save on the following shot. The Devils had several chances to force a turnover and get the puck out before the goal was scored. It is a rough thing to have happen but don't try to tell me it was all the officials fault.
One last point, the the announcers and media in general, when you interview a guy who just one the cup, is a hockey player in general, and who only wants to go celebrate with his teammates; don't expect him to be worried about what is inappropriate to say on TV at the time. He really doesn't want to be doing your interview as it is. I saw lots of feedback on the F bombs that were dropped and couldn't help but think that the people asking the questions set themselves up by not being more prepared.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Monday, May 14, 2012
NHL Playoffs - 2nd Round Wrap Up and 3rd Round Picks
2nd Round Results
Otto
3-1 (8-4)
Misses: Nashville,
Dan
2-2 (6-6)
Misses: Nashville, Philadelphia
Josh
1-3 (4-8)
Misses: Los Angeles, Philadelphia, St. Louis
3rd Round Picks
Eastern Conference
#1 New York vs #6 New Jersey
To me this entire series hinges on game one. The Devils got a couple days extra rest while the Rangers had to grind out the full 7 games against the Capitals. Quieting the MSG crowd in game one would give the Devils some momentum going home no matter what happened in game 2. However if the Rangers take game one they set themselves up to be able to grind out another series. The goalending match up should be outstanding. A rejuvenated Marty against an always solid King Henry. I think the Rangers take game one and hold on in a back and forth series. I see another game seven coming in MSG, a place that just doesn't want to see their teams season end. Rangers in 7.
Western Conference
#3 Phoenix vs #8 Los Angeles
Well here is what we know: Mike Smith is real good, Phoenix is taking advantage of the home ice advantage, and the west played far fewer games than the east this round. Oh, I forgot to mention; Johnathan Quick is making real good goalies look average, the Kings can win anywhere (they are 8-1 in the playoffs), and simply they don't care what you think of them.
For the second round in a row the Kings walked through the highest remaining seed in the playoffs. The are using a balanced attack of outstanding goal tending and scoring enough goals to take the pressure off of the keeper. Not many people would have seen this #8 seed making it all the way to the conference finals.
For as much of a surprise has the Kings have been the 'Yotes have been just as much. No one expected much from this three seed who only got the spot from playing in a weak division. After 5 ot games out of 6 in the first round, they only played one in this round, of course winning it.
Originally I was afraid that the layoff would hurt the kings, however with Phoenix closing out the series the next day they have the same wait before the match up begins. I think the balanced attack of the Kings is going to outdo the Coyotes. The lack of consistent firepower will finally catch up, I'll take the Kings in 6.
Otto
3-1 (8-4)
Misses: Nashville,
Dan
2-2 (6-6)
Misses: Nashville, Philadelphia
Josh
1-3 (4-8)
Misses: Los Angeles, Philadelphia, St. Louis
3rd Round Picks
Eastern Conference
#1 New York vs #6 New Jersey
To me this entire series hinges on game one. The Devils got a couple days extra rest while the Rangers had to grind out the full 7 games against the Capitals. Quieting the MSG crowd in game one would give the Devils some momentum going home no matter what happened in game 2. However if the Rangers take game one they set themselves up to be able to grind out another series. The goalending match up should be outstanding. A rejuvenated Marty against an always solid King Henry. I think the Rangers take game one and hold on in a back and forth series. I see another game seven coming in MSG, a place that just doesn't want to see their teams season end. Rangers in 7.
Western Conference
#3 Phoenix vs #8 Los Angeles
Well here is what we know: Mike Smith is real good, Phoenix is taking advantage of the home ice advantage, and the west played far fewer games than the east this round. Oh, I forgot to mention; Johnathan Quick is making real good goalies look average, the Kings can win anywhere (they are 8-1 in the playoffs), and simply they don't care what you think of them.
For the second round in a row the Kings walked through the highest remaining seed in the playoffs. The are using a balanced attack of outstanding goal tending and scoring enough goals to take the pressure off of the keeper. Not many people would have seen this #8 seed making it all the way to the conference finals.
For as much of a surprise has the Kings have been the 'Yotes have been just as much. No one expected much from this three seed who only got the spot from playing in a weak division. After 5 ot games out of 6 in the first round, they only played one in this round, of course winning it.
Originally I was afraid that the layoff would hurt the kings, however with Phoenix closing out the series the next day they have the same wait before the match up begins. I think the balanced attack of the Kings is going to outdo the Coyotes. The lack of consistent firepower will finally catch up, I'll take the Kings in 6.
Conference Finals
LA over PHX in 6
Like I said before round 2. The Kings who knocked off the top seeded Canucks are now the favorites in my book. Plus, I just realized that they or the Rangers have to win the Cup because they are the only two teams left that started their season in Europe. (The last few cup winners have all started that season overseas). Dustin Brown (Captain America West) is fighting his teammate Jonathan Quick for Conn Smythe favorite.
NYR over NJ in 7
The Rangers just seem to not get rattled by being tied (having King Henry will do that) late in games. The blue shirts keep it simple and seem to get a goal whenever they need it. Ryan Callahan (Captain America East) is leading the charge emotionally and Brad Richards is continuing to take over as a clutch performer from Chris Drury.
Like I said before round 2. The Kings who knocked off the top seeded Canucks are now the favorites in my book. Plus, I just realized that they or the Rangers have to win the Cup because they are the only two teams left that started their season in Europe. (The last few cup winners have all started that season overseas). Dustin Brown (Captain America West) is fighting his teammate Jonathan Quick for Conn Smythe favorite.
NYR over NJ in 7
The Rangers just seem to not get rattled by being tied (having King Henry will do that) late in games. The blue shirts keep it simple and seem to get a goal whenever they need it. Ryan Callahan (Captain America East) is leading the charge emotionally and Brad Richards is continuing to take over as a clutch performer from Chris Drury.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
2nd Round Picks-Dan
Western Conference:
PHX-NSH
There seems to be a lot of mojo going on in the desert after a first round win (upset?) over the Blackhawks. But I'm gonna take the Nashville Predators in 6 games, because of their overall team ability and coaching. Rinne, Suter and Weber will carry this team to the Western Conference Final.
Preds in 6
STL-LA
So when a team knocks off the #1 seed shouldn't they become the top dog? That's how I feel and that's why I'm picking the Kings to knock off the highest seed left in the conference. Jonathan Quick and company seem to have it figured out early in the playoffs.
Kings in 7
Eastern Conference
NYR-WAS
I really don't care for either of these teams. The caps because of Ovie, and the Rangers because they seem to be the only team the the NHL and NBC seem to care about. Anyhow, since I have to make a pick, I will take the Rangers in 6 based on Richards, Callahan and Lundquvist.
NYR in 6
PHI-NJ
The Flyers will roll over the Devils and sweep.
Philly in 4
PHX-NSH
There seems to be a lot of mojo going on in the desert after a first round win (upset?) over the Blackhawks. But I'm gonna take the Nashville Predators in 6 games, because of their overall team ability and coaching. Rinne, Suter and Weber will carry this team to the Western Conference Final.
Preds in 6
STL-LA
So when a team knocks off the #1 seed shouldn't they become the top dog? That's how I feel and that's why I'm picking the Kings to knock off the highest seed left in the conference. Jonathan Quick and company seem to have it figured out early in the playoffs.
Kings in 7
Eastern Conference
NYR-WAS
I really don't care for either of these teams. The caps because of Ovie, and the Rangers because they seem to be the only team the the NHL and NBC seem to care about. Anyhow, since I have to make a pick, I will take the Rangers in 6 based on Richards, Callahan and Lundquvist.
NYR in 6
PHI-NJ
The Flyers will roll over the Devils and sweep.
Philly in 4
Friday, April 27, 2012
2012 NHL Playoffs - Round 1 Results & Round 2 Picks
1st Round Results
Otto
5-3
Misses: Vancouver, Chicago, Pittsburgh
Dan
4-4
Misses: Vancouver, Chicago, Boston, Pittsburgh
Josh
3-5
Misses: Vancouver, Chicago, Detroit, Boston, Pittsburgh
2nd Round Picks
Eastern Conference
#1 NY Rangers vs #7 Washington
The Capitals got here using a technique that was brand new to them, pound and grind the opponent and outwork them. Evidently Ovie hasn't bought into this and well, the capitals don't seem to care at all. He played around 15 minutes in every game of the series. The Rangers on the other hand have used this style all year. Holtby looked solid in goal for the Caps but was shaky at times, Ill give the goal tending advantage to the Rangers with the King in net. I also think the Rangers big name scorers with the big contracts will start to earn them a little more this round. It wont be easy but I'll take the Rangers in 7 again.
#5 Philadelphia vs #6 New Jersey
Philadelphia proved they can score goals, stopping them is another story. The Devils proved that they can win under pressure, winning games 6 and 7 in OT after falling behind 3 games to 2 to the surprising Panthers. To put it in perspective their were only 5 more goals scored in the Panthers-Devils 7 game series than the Flyers scored in their 6 games. The goal tending is still a major question in Philly since nothing was really proved beyond that they just managed to out power the mighty pens. My theory that Marty will go out with a big bang will be tested this round, the firepower of the Flyers is much greater then that of the Panthers. I think he will do just enough, combined with the inconsistencies of Bryz, to give the Devils the series in 6.
Western Conference
#2 St Louis vs #8 LA Kings
Home ice can make all the difference in the playoffs, then again so can being on a hot stretch. Look at any professional sport the last few years. St. Louis make quick work of a very veteran San Jose team while to Kings make the standings look reversed in their first round win. I'll take the kings in 6, they got rolling at the right time and looked good knocking off the top seeded Canucks.
#3 Phoenix vs #4 Nashville
I think this one will come down to the experience in the playoffs. Nashville continued to build off of their recent playoff history and knocked off the storied Wings in their first round series. Phoenix showed how much they like to play overtime hockey as they battled their way out of the first round versus Chicago. I will take Nashville with their experience in 6 although watch for Smith to steal an extra game and nothing is certain for a team playing a game 7 in front of their home crowd.
Otto
5-3
Misses: Vancouver, Chicago, Pittsburgh
Dan
4-4
Misses: Vancouver, Chicago, Boston, Pittsburgh
Josh
3-5
Misses: Vancouver, Chicago, Detroit, Boston, Pittsburgh
2nd Round Picks
Eastern Conference
#1 NY Rangers vs #7 Washington
The Capitals got here using a technique that was brand new to them, pound and grind the opponent and outwork them. Evidently Ovie hasn't bought into this and well, the capitals don't seem to care at all. He played around 15 minutes in every game of the series. The Rangers on the other hand have used this style all year. Holtby looked solid in goal for the Caps but was shaky at times, Ill give the goal tending advantage to the Rangers with the King in net. I also think the Rangers big name scorers with the big contracts will start to earn them a little more this round. It wont be easy but I'll take the Rangers in 7 again.
#5 Philadelphia vs #6 New Jersey
Philadelphia proved they can score goals, stopping them is another story. The Devils proved that they can win under pressure, winning games 6 and 7 in OT after falling behind 3 games to 2 to the surprising Panthers. To put it in perspective their were only 5 more goals scored in the Panthers-Devils 7 game series than the Flyers scored in their 6 games. The goal tending is still a major question in Philly since nothing was really proved beyond that they just managed to out power the mighty pens. My theory that Marty will go out with a big bang will be tested this round, the firepower of the Flyers is much greater then that of the Panthers. I think he will do just enough, combined with the inconsistencies of Bryz, to give the Devils the series in 6.
Western Conference
#2 St Louis vs #8 LA Kings
Home ice can make all the difference in the playoffs, then again so can being on a hot stretch. Look at any professional sport the last few years. St. Louis make quick work of a very veteran San Jose team while to Kings make the standings look reversed in their first round win. I'll take the kings in 6, they got rolling at the right time and looked good knocking off the top seeded Canucks.
#3 Phoenix vs #4 Nashville
I think this one will come down to the experience in the playoffs. Nashville continued to build off of their recent playoff history and knocked off the storied Wings in their first round series. Phoenix showed how much they like to play overtime hockey as they battled their way out of the first round versus Chicago. I will take Nashville with their experience in 6 although watch for Smith to steal an extra game and nothing is certain for a team playing a game 7 in front of their home crowd.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
2012 NHL Playoffs - 1st Round - Otto
Nothing big this year just my pick and ill do the standings after each round. Send your picks to me on Facebook or in an email.
Eastern Conference
#1 NY Rangers vs #8 Ottawa
I've heard a lot about a high scoring Ottawa team, however I do believe that the Rangers have the potential to match that firepower as well as grinding out games as they have throughout the year. Enough scoring for the Rangers and a heavy dose of the King, I see the Rangers in 5.
#2 Boston vs #7 Washington
This is my most intriguing match-up in the East. Washington has had no consistency this year but have looked great at times. If they hit one of those stretches then I think they can take on anyone. Goaltending will again be an issue this year for them. Boston has not gotten the benefit of co-starting goalies this year but Thomas is the reigning MVP for a reason. I think this one goes 7, and Ovie finally shakes his label of not being clutch when needed. Caps in 7.
#3 Florida vs #6 NJ Devils
This young Florida team is making a first appearance for many of this members. They slumped into the playoffs and I don't think this will change. On the other side, many of the Devils players have been there before. Although he will not be the cornerstone of this series I believe that this year will mark a final march for Marty. Ill take the Devils in 5.
#4 Pittsburgh vs #5 Philadelphia
This takes spot 1A for interest level. An in state rivalry against two top tier teams. It will be interesting to see if the injury of Bryz's foot still lingers and if he can finally prove that he belongs to be a top level goalie. Pittsburgh has the top level goalie and one of the best scorers in the league in Malkin. It will be interesting to see if Crosby can stay healthy in the grind of a playoff game. I think Malkin's offense and more consistent goaltending lead the pens in the one. Pens in 6.
Western Conference
#1 Vancouver vs #8 Los Angeles
The question remains year after year, can Lou play in the playoffs so do we see another melt down leading to him being pulled and missing the next game? The Canucks will be ok this series if they get the Sediens back together, if not it will be a little closer than it should be. I think Vancouver continues what lead them to the top spot in the league, even despite Lou. Canucks in 6
#2 St. Louis vs #7 San Jose
I struggle to make an open minded pick on this one. In my head St. Louis is still what they had been for years prior, it has not caught on in my head yet that they are the second best team in the west. I have always enjoyed watching San Jose play for years, despite their lack of playoff success. I'm picking St Louis in 7 based heavily on their home record during the regular season, 6 regulation losses is hard to argue with.
#3 Phoenix vs # 6 Chicago
Phoenix finished the season on a tear, 7-1-2 giving them the Pacific title and thus the #3 spot overall. With the points alone Phoenix would have been seeded 6 in the west. Chicago finished strong this season as well, giving them 101 points, 4 more than their opponent this round. I think that Phoenix as a hockey town lacks what Chicago will bring and Chicago can steal one on the road. The Blackhawks in 7 for me.
#4 Nashville vs #5 Detroit
How do you pick against the Red Wings? They have so much experience and tradition. Nashville lacks the tradition but has a few years of experience going for them. I think that home ice is going to help Nashville now that they have built up more support the last couple year. I think that Nashville does something special this year and knocks off Detroit in the first round. Nashville in 6.
Eastern Conference
#1 NY Rangers vs #8 Ottawa
I've heard a lot about a high scoring Ottawa team, however I do believe that the Rangers have the potential to match that firepower as well as grinding out games as they have throughout the year. Enough scoring for the Rangers and a heavy dose of the King, I see the Rangers in 5.
#2 Boston vs #7 Washington
This is my most intriguing match-up in the East. Washington has had no consistency this year but have looked great at times. If they hit one of those stretches then I think they can take on anyone. Goaltending will again be an issue this year for them. Boston has not gotten the benefit of co-starting goalies this year but Thomas is the reigning MVP for a reason. I think this one goes 7, and Ovie finally shakes his label of not being clutch when needed. Caps in 7.
#3 Florida vs #6 NJ Devils
This young Florida team is making a first appearance for many of this members. They slumped into the playoffs and I don't think this will change. On the other side, many of the Devils players have been there before. Although he will not be the cornerstone of this series I believe that this year will mark a final march for Marty. Ill take the Devils in 5.
#4 Pittsburgh vs #5 Philadelphia
This takes spot 1A for interest level. An in state rivalry against two top tier teams. It will be interesting to see if the injury of Bryz's foot still lingers and if he can finally prove that he belongs to be a top level goalie. Pittsburgh has the top level goalie and one of the best scorers in the league in Malkin. It will be interesting to see if Crosby can stay healthy in the grind of a playoff game. I think Malkin's offense and more consistent goaltending lead the pens in the one. Pens in 6.
Western Conference
#1 Vancouver vs #8 Los Angeles
The question remains year after year, can Lou play in the playoffs so do we see another melt down leading to him being pulled and missing the next game? The Canucks will be ok this series if they get the Sediens back together, if not it will be a little closer than it should be. I think Vancouver continues what lead them to the top spot in the league, even despite Lou. Canucks in 6
#2 St. Louis vs #7 San Jose
I struggle to make an open minded pick on this one. In my head St. Louis is still what they had been for years prior, it has not caught on in my head yet that they are the second best team in the west. I have always enjoyed watching San Jose play for years, despite their lack of playoff success. I'm picking St Louis in 7 based heavily on their home record during the regular season, 6 regulation losses is hard to argue with.
#3 Phoenix vs # 6 Chicago
Phoenix finished the season on a tear, 7-1-2 giving them the Pacific title and thus the #3 spot overall. With the points alone Phoenix would have been seeded 6 in the west. Chicago finished strong this season as well, giving them 101 points, 4 more than their opponent this round. I think that Phoenix as a hockey town lacks what Chicago will bring and Chicago can steal one on the road. The Blackhawks in 7 for me.
#4 Nashville vs #5 Detroit
How do you pick against the Red Wings? They have so much experience and tradition. Nashville lacks the tradition but has a few years of experience going for them. I think that home ice is going to help Nashville now that they have built up more support the last couple year. I think that Nashville does something special this year and knocks off Detroit in the first round. Nashville in 6.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
My Playoff Picks - Dan
NYR over OTT in 6
These two teams are very well coached, but after that all the advantages go to NY. Goaltender Henrik Lundquist hasn't been good in the postseason but has been playing a a Vezina Trophy level all year. This will be a hard fought series, filled with close games but I think the Blueshirts will pull it off. Look for Ryan Callahan to become a clutch playoff performer.
BOS over WAS in 5
Chara and Sidenberg and Bergeron will make Ovie's life miserable and give him fits. Overall Boston is a better team plain and simple.
NJ over FLA in 7
This series could go either way. The panthers are back in the playoffs for the first time since I was in middle school and might ride an emotional high to a first round victory. The devils have some scoring punch with their big guns flying high, and some team toughness that does well in the playoffs. I have to give the goaltending edge to Broduer and the Devils. This might be his last go around for a cup.
PIT over PHI in 7
This could shape up to be one heck of a series. Not only do the teams not like each other, but they are two really strong hockey clubs. The Pens might have the more potent star power with Crosby, Staal, Malkin, and Letang but the Flyers have Giroux, Briere(hurt), Jagr, and some young stars wearing their crest on their chest. The Pens have the edge in net because Fleury has already won a cup and has proven he can steal a series for his team. Bryzgolov is no slouch but he hasn't proven anything in the post season.
Western Conference
Van over LA in 6
Vancouver has something to prove after last years debacle in the final. They should be all over LA in this series. The two games LA wins will be at home and close. Too bad for LA to get this match up because I like their goaltender (Quick, who should win the Vezina) and their Captain (Brown, dude's a gamer).
STL over SJ in 6
The blues have a lot of young and energetic talent. They play the game the right way all over the rink, and they have not one but two goalies who can shutout a team on any night. Halak and Elliot have been the leagues best tandem all season. If this series goes seven games SJ might sneak by on experience. Side note, look for Alex Pietrangelo to have a coming out party for STL.
CHI over PHX in 6
The hawks will be carried by the emotion of their Captain Jonathan Toews coming back to the lineup and beat the desert dogs. The boys from the windy city are playoff hardened and are poised to make a run as long as their goal tending holds.
NSH over DET in 7
This might be the best series of the first round. Nashville management is all in for a cup run this year by making deals for rental players and giving up picks and prospects to do so. Nashville has the team defense and goaltending to hold Detroit's vaunted attack at bay for seven games. But do they have enough scoring?
These two teams are very well coached, but after that all the advantages go to NY. Goaltender Henrik Lundquist hasn't been good in the postseason but has been playing a a Vezina Trophy level all year. This will be a hard fought series, filled with close games but I think the Blueshirts will pull it off. Look for Ryan Callahan to become a clutch playoff performer.
BOS over WAS in 5
Chara and Sidenberg and Bergeron will make Ovie's life miserable and give him fits. Overall Boston is a better team plain and simple.
NJ over FLA in 7
This series could go either way. The panthers are back in the playoffs for the first time since I was in middle school and might ride an emotional high to a first round victory. The devils have some scoring punch with their big guns flying high, and some team toughness that does well in the playoffs. I have to give the goaltending edge to Broduer and the Devils. This might be his last go around for a cup.
PIT over PHI in 7
This could shape up to be one heck of a series. Not only do the teams not like each other, but they are two really strong hockey clubs. The Pens might have the more potent star power with Crosby, Staal, Malkin, and Letang but the Flyers have Giroux, Briere(hurt), Jagr, and some young stars wearing their crest on their chest. The Pens have the edge in net because Fleury has already won a cup and has proven he can steal a series for his team. Bryzgolov is no slouch but he hasn't proven anything in the post season.
Western Conference
Van over LA in 6
Vancouver has something to prove after last years debacle in the final. They should be all over LA in this series. The two games LA wins will be at home and close. Too bad for LA to get this match up because I like their goaltender (Quick, who should win the Vezina) and their Captain (Brown, dude's a gamer).
STL over SJ in 6
The blues have a lot of young and energetic talent. They play the game the right way all over the rink, and they have not one but two goalies who can shutout a team on any night. Halak and Elliot have been the leagues best tandem all season. If this series goes seven games SJ might sneak by on experience. Side note, look for Alex Pietrangelo to have a coming out party for STL.
CHI over PHX in 6
The hawks will be carried by the emotion of their Captain Jonathan Toews coming back to the lineup and beat the desert dogs. The boys from the windy city are playoff hardened and are poised to make a run as long as their goal tending holds.
NSH over DET in 7
This might be the best series of the first round. Nashville management is all in for a cup run this year by making deals for rental players and giving up picks and prospects to do so. Nashville has the team defense and goaltending to hold Detroit's vaunted attack at bay for seven games. But do they have enough scoring?
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