As you may have heard, the NHL Playoffs have begun and there are a lot of excited people in Canada and around the world because of it.
Yes, I know, the playoffs started Tuesday night – but about an hour ago the puck dropped in Montreal to kick off the 1st round series between les Canadiens and the Senators and so my Journey To The Cup has officially begun!
Because I love the Habs and I am encouraged by the (shortened) regular season that they had and I am a fan – I am picking them to win this series against Ottawa. Now, it may not be the sweep that I would really love to see. In fact, I think that this thing goes at least 6 games. But I do think that the speed, points from the D, fore checking and goaltending are good enough to get the job done.
Elsewhere (Toronto), there is a ton of excitement as the Maple Leafs have played their first playoff game in 9 years. It didn’t go as planned for the blue & white faithful (a 4-1 loss in Boston) and there is now a search for answers and options to turn things around for game 2 vs. the Bruins. I’m taking Boston in this one. They’re bigger, stronger, more experienced and frankly, the better team. Look for 5 games here.
Out west the Canucks did not look exceptional in their game 1 match-up with the San Jose Sharks. But I do think that they have a roster that can turn things around and win this series. The Sharks won’t go quietly into that good night though and this thing will take 6 or 7 games with Roberto Loungo holding on to the goalie job as long as he can.
In the non-Canadian team series I’ve got picks too…
Kings vs. Blues: Kings in 6
I know they lost game 1 in OT, but I think that the reigning champs can get it done. Also, I want more tweets from their team.
Red Wings vs. Ducks: Ducks in 5
The Wings are in the playoffs for the 200th season in a row – but the times they are a changing and the Ducks are the deeper and better team.
Rangers vs. Capitals: Capitals in 5
They’re explosive, talented and playing really good hockey right now. Look for the power play to get the job done and King Henrik to be beat when it’s not always his fault.
Blackhawks vs. Wild: Blackhawks in 4
They were the best team in hockey this season and they are deeper up front and have had solid goaltending almost every night. Look for more close games, but game 4 could be a blow out on the road.
Penguins vs. Islanders: Penguins in 5
The Pens are a ton better than the Isles and this could be a sweep – but I think NYI will solve Fleury in 1 game and make everyone question him just like last year before Pittsburgh moves on to round 2.
I’ve got the Penguins in the final for the east vs. the Ducks from the west when it’s time to hand out the Stanley Cup.
And in that series I’ll take the Pittsburgh Penguins, with Sidney Crosby on the ice, the win the 2013 Stanley Cup.
Good luck to all hockey fans, I could be wrong on all of these predictions so keep cheering!
Stay awesome!
Go Habs Go!
