There are only a handful of games left in the 2008-09 National Hockey League season and it's time to look at which teams will play whom in the playoff match-ups.
The Eastern Conference
Boston Bruins vs New York Rangers
Boston has been the team to catch since last November and except for a stretch towards the end of the season, have managed to roll over most of their opposition. the Rangers have won 2 of their four meetings with the Bruins this year, but the Bruins appear to have re-gained their focus having gone 8-1-1 in their last 10 games including a 1-0 shutout of New York in their last meeting. Bruins in 5, maybe 6 games.
Washington Capitals vs Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens' season began with a lot of fanfare after winning the conference last year, but the Habs faltered badly after starting strong. Even though they seem to have turned it around after recently firing their coach, they still are having problems with lesser teams. Washington has got the firepower coming from more than one line (unlike Montreal) and they match up in nets. After losing all but four games with Carey Price manning the net, Price and the Habs seen to be back in shape, but if Price falters and Koivu's line gets shut down? Washington in 6.
New Jersey Devils vs Pittsburgh Penguins
The Devils looked like world beaters just a short time ago. Brodeur was back, setting records and the team was coming up quickly on Boston for the overall league lead. Then the wheels fell off. The Devils are mired in the worst slump in 20 years at just the wrong time. Pittsburgh has suddenly become the team to watch as they went from also rans. The Penguinos main group (Crosby, Malkin, Fleury) has been augmented with good players and should easily handle the Devils, handing New Jersey their 2nd straight first round playoff exit. Penguins in 6.
Philadelphia Flyers vs Carolina Hurricanes
Both of these teams were in trouble early in the season, but they've made it again into the playoffs. I think Carolina will prove the better team based on goaltending alone. The Flyers don't have it and the Hurricanes do. Philly has great offensive talent, but when the chips are down, goaltending proves who should advance. The Flyers are playing .500 hockey and the 'Canes are 7-1-2 and are on a 7 game winning streak. Plus the Hurricanes are unbeatable at home. Carolina in 6, maybe 7.
The Eastern Conference
San Jose Sharks vs St Louis Blues
San Jose should get past the pesky Blues pretty easily this year. St Louis is on an upswing, but this is not their year for the big upset. The Sharks have been solid all year and if they don't win it this year, it will be because they can't get past Detroit in the next round. Still, give kudos to the Blues! They'll be even stronger next year. Sharks in 5.
Detroit Red Wings vs Anaheim Ducks
The defending Stanley Cup champions, the Detroit Red Wings, are my pick to win the cup again this year. Even though their goaltending has been suspect at times, overall they have the strongest, most balanced attack. Anaheim will be chasing the Red Wings all over the ice after 2-3 games and might win one game. Detroit in 5.
Vancouver Canucks vs Columbus Blue Jackets
The Canucks could be the surpise team this year. Solid goaltending from team captain Roberto Luongo, good defence and a balanced front line should take Vancouver into the second round. But Columbus does have a great young goalie of their own in lanky Steve Mason who leads the league with 10 shutouts. That should win him some rookie of the year votes, but this will be Mason's first playoff race. Vancouver in 6.
Chicago Blackhawks vs Calgary Flames
Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane are finally making their first NHL playoff appearances and Chicago has gotten stronger all season. My heart is with Jarome Iginla and the Flames, and it will be a hard-fought series, but I think Chicago will prevail. Chicago in 6, maybe 7.
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