EASTERN CONFERENCE
Bruins vs. Blue Jackets
My prediction: Blue Jackets in 6
RESULT: BRUINS IN 6
Post-Series Thoughts: The Jackets played pretty well in this series, actually. They just ended up snake-bitten at the end. And more than that, there was a REALLY botched penalty call in game 6 that really could have turned this game into an entirely different scenario. But props to Boston who continued playing their strong game after a grueling prior series.
Pre-Series Thoughts: I didn't give the Jackets a remote chance against Tampa Bay, the league's best team. I'm not going to make the same mistake. I still think the Bruins will make this a series, but if the Jackets play remotely as cohesively as they did in round one, they should take it. And they are well rested, though this might work against them. The Bruins had a long and grueling series, but the Jackets have been inactive. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.
Hurricanes vs. Islanders
My prediction: Hurricanes in 6
RESULT: HURRICANES IN 4
Post-Series Thoughts: The Canes showed that they are one of the better teams in the league this season. They dispatched the defending champs who were vastly superior to this Isles team and then dealt with the Isles quickly and easily. I think they will be playing for the cup this year no matter who they face next round.
Pre-Series Thoughts: The Islanders not only showed up in round one, but they did so convincingly and emphatically (and quickly). But this year's Penguins team is not remotely on the same level as the Hurricanes who knocked off the defending champs. Here again, the length of the respective series' may play a factor, as the Hurricanes just finished a long and difficult series while the Islanders will be well rested. I still think the Canes will take it though.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Stars vs. Blues
My prediction: Blues in 6
RESULT: BLUES IN 7
Post-Series Thoughts: Wow, was this a great series. The Stars played the best they have in a long time, but the Blues found a way to win. In game 7. In overtime. Second overtime.
Pre-Series Thoughts: These are two good clubs going at it. But the Stars are inconsistent, whereas the Blues are a steady, consistent team in pretty much every area. The Stars may steal a couple of games, but I think the Blues will take it.
Sharks vs. Avalanche
My prediction: Sharks in 7
RESULT:
Pre-Series Thoughts: I'm tempted to pick the Avs here, as they played fantastic hockey in round one. But the Sharks are just a stronger club in most areas, so we'll see how things play out. I expect a long series.
