Alright so after a valiant effort, the Toronto Maple Leafs didn't make the playoffs. Instead, the New York Islanders will disgrace the NHL and the NHL playoffs by showing their sorry logo in the playoffs. I have had my two days to recover from this disappointment, and I am now ready to offer my predictions for the first round.
Buffalo Sabres vs New York Islanders
If Toronto was in the Islanders spot, this might have been a good series. I'm not just saying that because it's Toronto, but the Leafs did play Buffalo tough all year. Islanders don't have a hope, Buffalo in four...maybe five.
New Jersey Devils vs Tampa Bay Lightning
I'm equally bitter at New Jersey for not beating the Islanders in the last game of the year so Toronto could get in, but I dont think the Lightning can beat the Devils. Tampa's goaltending is suspect, but Brodeur for New Jersey is solid. Devils in five.
Atlanta Thrashers vs New York Rangers
Intriguing match up. This one has the potential to go the distance, especially with both teams powerful offenses. But Atlanta has been somewhat more consistent this year, so I'm picking Atlanta in six.
Ottawa Senators vs Pittsburgh Penguins
This will be the one to watch. Ottawa is fun to watch, and so is Pittsburgh. This series is going to go seven, whether Ottawa likes it or not. Although I like Pittsburgh, I just think Emery for Ottawa is playing too well to lose this series. Ottawa in seven.
Detroit Red Wings vs Calgary Flames
The rest of these are the western conference, so I'm not going to pay attention to it too much. I'm predicting the Wings will beat the Flames, but Calgary will give it a run. Wings in six.
Anaheim Ducks vs Minnesota Wild
Although Anaheim has a good record this year, this is where I'm picking my upset. Minnesota is only seventh because of their tough division. Minnesota in six.
Vancouver Canucks vs Dallas Stars
I'm getting bored of writing all these lol...even though there are only two more to go. Luongo for Vancouver will win them the series. Vancouver in seven.
Nashville Predators vs San Jose Sharks
I hate the Sharks. Enough said. Nashville in five.
Now I have to wait and see how I do.