NHL Hockey Playoffs

It's funny how exciting sports moments seem to happen in bunches. We recently witnessed the conclusion of a very exciting college basketball tournament. Now we begin another one of the most exciting part of the sports year, the NHL Playoffs. This two month long tournament is known for its annual classic and forever memorable moments. If the recent Olympic tournament is any indication, the same will be true for this year's playoffs.

The playoffs are more exciting when we don't know what will happen. However, I will momentarily stray from that philosophy and make believe I have some type of knowledge on how it (the first round anyway) will turn out.

I will admit that I find my predicitions rather boring. This is only because I honestly don't see any surprise results in this first round. Here are my predicitons for each series:

Montreal vs Washington - This will be an exciting, down to the wire series. The Caps will get a serious scare, but will win in 7.

Philadelphia vs New Jersey - Another series that will be rather close and exciting. Devils in 6.

Boston vs Buffalo - If there is one series that has the most potential for an upset, I believe it is this one. Two things will make the difference...Ryan Miller's goaltending, and Lindy Ruff's coaching magic in the playoffs. My hometown team will scare us fans, but the Sabres will win in 6.

Ottawa vs Pittsburgh - This is the Penguins time of year. They will this series in 5.

Colorado vs. San Jose - Uh oh, will the Sharks choke again? Not yet anyway. They win in 5.

Nashville vs Chicago - Blackhawks are too much better. They win in 5.

Los Angeles vs Vancouver - The fans will be entertained to exciting games. Canucks in 6.

Detroit vs Phoenix - Great season Phoenix. You still have a team and had your best season since they've been in Arizona. Your reward? The Red Wings! The Coyotes will show up and compete (will any fans show up?) but that won't be enough. Wings in 6.

That's it for now. I guess we'll see what happens. Let the games begin!