EASTERN CONFERENCE
Rangers (1) vs. Lightning (2)
My prediction: Lightning in 7
RESULT: Lightning in 7
Post-Series Thoughts: This series did, indeed, go the distance. Hard fought on both sides, great goaltending on both sides, with a couple of stinkers thrown in for each team as well, but in the end, the Bolts' speed and offense won the series for them. Down goes Henrik in a game 7, too.
Pre-Series Thoughts: The Lightning are a quick team, and they hold the edge in the regular season series. While Bishop is a great goalie, and I think Lundqvist is overrated, I do think Henrik gets the edge in goal. I think the Rangers have the edge in goal and on defense, but Tampa has the edge in speed and in offense, and they generally play better as a team. Honestly I think this series could go either way but my guess is that it will go deep, and in the end I'm picking Tampa Bay in 7.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Ducks (1) vs. Blackhawks (2)
My prediction: Ducks in 6
RESULT: Blackhawks in 7
Post-Series Thoughts: My gut was wrong. The Hawks again showed why they are elite team. They wore the Ducks down. In the end, their best players stepped up and their goaltending, while a bit uneven, got the job done. Well done Hawks.
Pre-Series Thoughts: I
still think the Ducks are the strongest team in this year's playoffs, with the best coach in the NHL (apologies to Babcock, but Budreau has even better numbers over his career, often with less to work with). Chicago can't be counted out, as they have a bunch of really skilled guys that have been to the dance before, and have come away winners. Still, I have to go with my gut here and pick the Ducks in 6, though I could see it going to 7 games.
