Ice Scoopz: Playoff Predictions

Playoff Predictions

Western Conference

1. San Jose
Vs
8. Colorado
Winner= San Jose In 5

While the Colorado Avalanche had a fairy tale season I feel that they don't have the extra gear needed for the playoffs yet. The wheels fell off after the break and they lost one of their best players for a player who still needs seasoning in Peter Mueller. The Sharks on the other hand have been consistent and a force the past few seasons. The playoffs are not their strong point as we know but they know that too and know there will be massive changes should they not have better results. Dany Heatley adds that extra touch around the net as well as they have plenty of youth in the lineup to energize the vets. The Sharks know its a must while for the Aves it was just nice to make it and should be ready next time around.
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2. Chicago
Vs
7. Nashville
Winner = Chicago in 5.

The Blackhawks offence should scare the Predators non existent offense to death. The defense is close to the Hawks except for the fact Brent Seabrook and Duncan Keith seam to excel in the playoffs. The one edge the Preds have is goaltending in Pekka Renne but it'll be hard to compete against a team who has that much of an offensive edge especially when only 2 players on your team hit 20 goals and one of them is injured.
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3. Vancouver
Vs
6. Los Angeles
Winner= Vancouver In 7

This one was a hard one for me as I really like Los Angeles and think their going to be a elite team in the near future. I also find that Vancouver is New Jersey of the West but because of that I think they have the edge. Roberto Luongo will be the deciding factor. Not to knock Jonathan Quick but Luongo is on another level. It all depends if The Sedins stay healthy. Could we see the Pavol Demetra who cares?
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4. Phoenix
Vs
5. Detroit
Winner= Phoenix in 6

This is one that most hockey fans won't agree with me on but I think Phoenix will ride the wave of success and continue it into the playoffs. Their not quite a youth movement but still have the energy and speed plus the veteran experience. Phoenix has had that extra jump and passion all season long while Detroit has only come as of late. It'll be a close battle and Detroit has the experience to take it but the Coyotes have the determination and every player on that team plays their system now due to Dave Tippett.
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Eastern Conference

1. Washington
Vs
8. Montreal
Winner= Montreal in 7.

The Capitals have dominated all season long and look to be the favorites in the East. If there was to be an upset this is the series. The Caps have an incredible offense from the front of the lineup to the back. This is why I say they'll struggle against the offensively challenged Habs. Jacques Martin plays a defensive turnover style game and the Caps are turnover magnets. Their defense is soft and their goaltending is suspect. Montreal knows Theodore well and that could work to their advantage as well. Overall I don't believe the Habs can match firepower with firepower but if they play a defensive style of attack to shut down Ovie and co its the Habs series.
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2. New Jersey
Vs
7. Philly
Winner= New Jersey in 5

New Jersey should take this easily due to there all round game and one of the best goalies in the league compared to Phillys non existent goaltending and a struggling core of forwards. Philly was lucky enough just to make it to the dance this year. New Jersey should be able to shut down their struggling powerplay and woeful offense. The Devils alos should take advantage of a weak Brian boucher who hasn't appeared in the post season since 2002. Philly's only hope is to use their size and grit to their advantage and wear down the Devils.
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3. Buffalo
Vs
6. Boston
Winner= Buffalo In 5

Buffalo is rolling right now and have that momentum going in their favor. The Bruins have struggled big time most of the season, especially in the offense department. Thats bad news since Buffalo has one of the hottest goalies in the league and my opinion hands down Vezina winner at the end of the season. Marc Savard still remains out so not much hope for that little bit of extra help combined with Boston management down grading at the deadline with dealing Derek Morris and bringing Denis Seidenberg. The Sabres have the Bruins beat in all catagories and boston has to hope Tuuka Rask is up to the challenge.
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4. Pittsburgh
Vs
5. Ottawa
Winner= Ottawa In 7

This is another prediction many are going to call me on but I really think Ottawa will upset here. While they have awful goaltending the Sens have one of the best second halfs in the East. Although really pricey Chris Kelly, Jarkko Ruutu, Chris Neil, Shean Donovan and company fill the role well and I think they can line up against the Pittsburgh back half and due damage or shut down the top lines. If they cant do that then whats their use at that price tag? I also feel Pittsburgh isn't the same Stanley Cup Champions they were and unless Fleury stands on his head and Malkin gets rolling this should be a tough series to win.