The first round is in the history books now, following three first-round Game 7 series-tiebreakers. There was only one series decided before yesterday, thanks in large part to the redesigned playoff structure, so it is the one that will start later today.
Montreal Canadiens versus Boston Bruins, Habs in 6 or 7. I cannot expect any less, especially with my boys four wins away from giving my favorite birthday present: a win on my birthday! That said, everybody (by vast majority of 80% or higher) is expecting Boston Bruins to win. Conversely, Les Canadiens have been virtually invisible this season. It is such an easy team to discredit, but they probably won the trade deadline by acquiring two key players in exchange for almost nothing. I expect Mike Weaver and Thomas Vanek will have an impact in this series.
Pittsburgh Penguins versus New York Rangers, Rangers in 5 or 6. Both teams are shaken after their respective first round opponents, but Pens goalie Marc Andre Fluery will be the weakest link of both teams. My prediction is linked to the expectation that the Rangers can hammer him early and then often to frazzle him while he's still shaken. Unfortunately, the more often that happens without changing the scoreboard, the more likely it is to rebuild MAF's confidence.
Chicago Blackhawks versus Minnesota Wild, Blackhawks in 4 or 5. I had Wild pegged for a deep playoff run, which is a conference final appearance or deeper, but the first round has led me to think that they are not quite ready for that next step(s). Especially if Corey Crawford continues to be Corey Crawford like he was in the four consecutive wins from the last round. Blackhawks aren't unbeatable in a Best-of-7 series, but I doubt think Wild can be the team to prove that theory.
LA Kings versus Anaheim Ducks, Kings in 5 or 6. Unfortunately for all their detractors, LA Kings have found their groove. Although I believe the difficulty the Ducks had with the Stars was more of a reflection of how good the Stars are than how limited the Ducks are, Kings have a younger, better, more solidified team. They can be lazy, but when they get down to win, they usually do. Winning four games straight is always impressive, whether it was a clean sweep like my Habs had, a rebound reaction like we saw from Bruins and Blackhawks, or stranding on the brink of failure the whole time like these Kings.
In short, I expect Rangers/Canadiens and Kings/Blackhawks in the Conference Finals.
