WEST
(1) Detroit vs (8) Calgary
(2) Anaheim vs (7) Minnesota
(3) Vancouver vs (6) Dallas
(4) Nashville vs (5) San Jose

EAST
(1) Buffalo vs (8) NY Islanders
(2) New Jersey vs (7)Tampa Bay
(3) Atlanta vs (6) NY Rangers
(4) Ottawa vs (5) Pittsburgh

Any predictions? I know what two teams are making the finals but I don't want to say until after the draft on Monday.


2007 EASTERN CONFERENCE QUARTERFINALS

Series A Time (ET) #1 Buffalo vs. #8 NY Islanders Network

Thursday, April 12 8:00 p.m. NY Islanders 1 at Buffalo 4 Buffalo Leads 1 - 0
Saturday, April 14 7:30 p.m. NY Islanders at Buffalo VERSUS TSN
Monday, April 16 7:30 p.m. Buffalo at NY Islanders VERSUS, TSN
Wednesday, April 18 7:30 p.m. Buffalo at NY Islanders VERSUS,TSN
* Friday, April 20 7:00 p.m. NY Islanders at Buffalo VERSUS,TSN
* Sunday, April 22 7:00 p.m. Buffalo at NY Islanders VERSUS,TSN
* Tuesday, April 24 TBD NY Islanders at Buffalo TSN


Series B Time (ET) #2 New Jersey vs. #7 Tampa Bay Network

Thursday, April 12 7:30 p.m. Tampa Bay 3 at New Jersey 5 New Jersey Leads 1 - 0
Saturday, April 14 7:00 p.m. Tampa Bay at New Jersey CBC, RDS
Monday, April 16 7:00 p.m. New Jersey at Tampa Bay CBC, RDS
Wednesday, April 18 7:00 p.m. New Jersey at Tampa Bay CBC, RDS
* Friday, April 20 7:00 p.m. Tampa Bay at New Jersey CBC, RDS
* Sunday, April 22 TBD New Jersey at Tampa Bay CBC, RDS
* Tuesday, April 24 TBD Tampa Bay at New Jersey CBC, RDS


Series C Time (ET) #3 Atlanta vs. #6 NY Rangers Network

Thursday, April 12 7:00 p.m. NY Rangers 4 at Atlanta 3 NY Rangers Lead 1 - 0
Saturday, April, 14 3:00 p.m. NY Rangers at Atlanta NBC, TSN
Tuesday, April, 17 7:00 p.m. Atlanta at NY Rangers TSN
Wednesday, April, 18 7:00 p.m. Atlanta at NY Rangers TSN
* Friday, April, 20 TBD NY Rangers at Atlanta TSN
* Sunday, April 22 1:00 p.m. Atlanta at NY Rangers NBC, TSN
* Monday, April, 23 7:00 p.m. NY Rangers at Atlanta VERSUS,TSN


Series D Time (ET) #4 Ottawa vs. #5 Pittsburgh Network

Wednesday, April 11 7:00 p.m. Pittsburgh 3 at Ottawa 6 Ottawa Leads 1 - 0
Saturday, April, 14 3:00 p.m. Pittsburgh at Ottawa CBC, RDS,NBC
Sunday, April, 15 6:00 p.m. Ottawa at Pittsburgh VERSUS, CBC,RDS
Tuesday, April, 17 7:00 p.m. Ottawa at Pittsburgh VERSUS,CBC, RDS
* Thursday, April 19 7:00 p.m. Pittsburgh at Ottawa CBC, RDS,VERSUS
* Sunday, April 22 1:00 p.m. Ottawa at Pittsburgh NBC, CBC,RDS
* Tuesday, April 24 7:00 p.m. Pittsburgh at Ottawa VERSUS,CBC, RDS


2007 WESTERN CONFERENCE QUARTERFINALS

Series E Time (ET) #1 Detroit vs. #8 Calgary Network

Thursday, April 12 7:00 p.m. Calgary 1 at Detroit 4 Detroit Leads 1 - 0
Sunday, April 15 1:00 p.m. Calgary at Detroit NBC, CBC
Tuesday, April 17 10:00 p.m. Detroit at Calgary CBC, VERSUS
Thursday, April 19 TBD Detroit at Calgary CBC,VERSUS
* Saturday, April 21 3:00 p.m. Calgary at Detroit NBC, CBC
* Sunday, April 22 TBD Detroit at Calgary CBC,VERSUS
* Tuesday, April 24 TBD Calgary at Detroit CBC,VERSUS


Series F Time (ET) #2 Anaheim vs. #7 Minnesota Network

Wednesday, April 11 10:30 p.m. Minnesota 1 at Anaheim 2 Anaheim Leads 1 - 0
Friday, April, 13 10:30 p.m. Minnesota at Anaheim TSN
Sunday, April 15 8:00 p.m. Anaheim at Minnesota TSN
Tuesday, April 17 9:00 p.m. Anaheim at Minnesota TSN
* Thursday, April 19 10:30 p.m. Minnesota at Anaheim TSN
* Saturday, April 21 TBD Anaheim at Minnesota TSN
* Monday, April 23 10:00 p.m. Minnesota at Anaheim TSN

Series G Time (ET) #3 Vancouver vs. #6 Dallas Network

Wednesday, April 11 10:00 p.m. Dallas 4 at Vancouver 5 4 OT Vancouver Leads 1 - 0
Friday, April, 13 9:00 p.m. Dallas at Vancouver CBC, RDS,VERSUS
Sunday, April 15 8:30 p.m. Vancouver at Dallas VERSUS, CBC,RDS
Tuesday, April 17 8:00 p.m. Vancouver at Dallas CBC, RDS (JIP)
* Thursday, April 19 TBD Dallas at Vancouver CBC, RDS,VERSUS
* Saturday, April 21 8:00 p.m. Vancouver at Dallas VERSUS,CBC, RDS
* Monday, April 23 TBD Dallas at Vancouver CBC, RDS,VERSUS

Series H Time (ET) #4 Nashville vs. #5 San Jose Network

Wednesday, April, 11 8:00 p.m. San Jose 5 at Nashville 4 2 OT San Jose Leads 1 - 0
Friday, April, 13 8:00 p.m. San Jose at Nashville TSN
Monday, April, 16 10:00 p.m. Nashville at San Jose VERSUS, TSN
Wednesday, April 18 10:00 p.m. Nashville at San Jose VERSUS,TSN
* Friday, April 20 9:00 p.m. San Jose at Nashville VERSUS(JIP), TSN
* Sunday, April 22 10:00 p.m. Nashville at San Jose VERSUS(JIP), TSN
* Tuesday, April 24 TBD San Jose at Nashville VERSUS,TSN

Calgary vs Detroit
is it me, or does this scream another Detroit first round exit at the hands of a better goalie?

Anaheim vs Minnesota
yawn.

Vancouver vs Dallas
FYI to those in playoff pools with me. Im not afraid to share. Dallas out in 5games.

San Jose vs Nashville
my pick for months to win the Cup, is now playing the team I had as my #2. damn.


Buffalo vs NYI or Toronto
Buffalo out in 4. You heard me right. Bet that Adam! ok ok.....Islanders make it close, but Leafs lose in 5.

New Jersey vs Tampa Bay
I hate the Devils. Devils in 5.

Ottawa vs Pittsburgh
the series i would most want to watch. should be GREAT hockey. OT in this series would be incredible to watch.

NY Rangers vs Atlanta
wish this was TB vs Atlanta. Love those 6-5 games. instead, 2-1 every night here. Rangers bore me, Thrashers please win!

I actually think the Leafs are better off in the playoffs than some people think. Their style of play could really wear down Buffalo, especially the Sundin line. Then again maybe im just seeing this through my Maple Leaf glasses, anyone else agree?

Did you watch the game yesterday? If they play their "style", Buffalo will DESTROY them. I don't care how much "heart" they have.

Agreed, best line from the game was when Harry Neale said something like "if either of these teams play like they did tonight they wont last 3 games in the playoffs".

The only thing either of those teams (Isles OR Leafs) have going for them against Buffalo is... if you're the Sabres, how the HELL do you watch those two teams down the stretch and NOT become wickedly overconfident that you're going to make them look like peewee teams...

That and its Buffalo...something always goes wrong.

Sure...Thats why the favourite always win the cup...year after year right??

The Leafs will not go down to BUffalo in 4....

I agree 100% Serge!

It's the Islanders that'll go down in 4, lol.

boo.

Calgary vs Detroit

I agree that this looks like another potential upset, but this Calgary team is nowhere near as good as it was last year. I also think the moved the Wings made at the deadline will help them here. Detroit in 6.

Anaheim vs Minnesota

This is an awesome series I think. Might not be the most high scoring series, but if you look at how well Minny has been playing this could be a major upset here. Anahiem in 7.

Vancouver vs Dallas

Finally the Canucks have a goalie, play some defense, and have a pretty sweet duo with the Sedin twins leading the way. The key for them is getting "some" scoring when the twins aren't on the ice. I think they are a better team than Dallas, with a better goalie in Luongo. Vancouver in 5.

San Jose vs Nashville

Wow wa wee wa! What a sick match up this one is. I'm very high on the Sharks, love their platoon goaltending situations, lobe the trades they made to bring over some leadership in Rivet and Guiren. The Predators remind me so much of Ottawa a few years back, and we all know how they ended up in the playoffs year after year. San Jose in 6.




Buffalo vs NY Islanders

Sabres are too deep in every category, while defense is a little suspect. Luckily for them, they can outgun any team in the East. The Islanders with Ryam Smyth would actually pose the biggest threat because they can play some defense. If the Leafs get in, their goaltending woes will make it impossible for them to deal with a 4-line attack of Buffalo. Buffalo in 5.


New Jersey vs Tampa Bay

This Tampa Bay team is led obviously by their big three in Lecavalier, Richards, and St.Louis. That's a lot of fire power, especially when you throw in Dan Boyle. If they can get some production from the rest of the team, and their goaltending stands up, I could see an upset here. Tampa Bay in 7.

Ottawa vs Pittsburgh

This Ottawa team has changed over the years and have a ton of playoff experience where the Pens have virtually none. I think that'll be the difference in this series as Fleury could get shelled. Ottawa in 5.


NY Rangers vs Atlanta

Yikes, a couple of sleeper teams here. If the games are low scoring that'll benefit the Rangers. With the way the Rangers have been playing I think this will be a very close series and go eithe way. Atlanta in 7.

I stopped reading right there.


I'll admit that I don't know much about the west other than the standings, due in part to not seeing the teams thanks to the new schedule. As for the East?

EAST
Buffalo vs NYI or Toronto I don't see Buffalo taking more than 5 games. 6 ONLY if Miller gets hurt.

New Jersey vs Tampa Bay Offense vs a defensive-oriented team. I see NJ winning it, but I wouldn't be surprised to see it hit 7 games, especially since TB has the season edge (I believe NJ has 1 win, 2 losses and an OT loss)

Ottawa vs Pittsburgh I'm biased, so let me look at the past match-ups. Pittsburgh lost to Ottawa early in the season, but have won 3 in a row in the last month vs Ottawa. These have been 1-goal games, and the last one was somewhat crushing for Ottawa/Emery to lose in the last 10 seconds. I think the Pens win the first game, lose the 2nd, then win out in 5.

NY Rangers vs Atlanta Atlanta has had the regular season edge, but Avery and a healthy Shanahan makes this a different Ranger team. It's going to depend on Lundqvist, and whether he can stay consistant in the playoffs. I'm going to go with an upset here - Rangers over Atlanta in 7.

Good thing you admitted to being bias. You might be the only one who likes the Pens in 5.

I'm sure there are 3-4 others on this board that don't mind my prediction


Thing is, they have Roberts and Recchi - 2 veteran leaders that know exactly what it takes to prepare for the playoffs. Recchi won it just last year with the Hurricanes. Roberts knows what it's like to win it as a young player (age 22 in 1989 with Calgary, I believe). Do any of the Senators have a Cup to their resumes? Just because they have some playoff experience, doesn't mean it's necessarily quality.

The rest of the team is too young to know any better - I don't see them playing this round any different than they've been, as they've been playing tough, tight hockey lately. If they hit the 2nd round (there's a chance, of course), then I can see them realizing exactly how big this all is and letting that creep into their heads, but not for the first round.

I'm not a Serge by any means and fully admit that I could be totally wrong. I figure that this is the thread to make bold predictions, though so why not?

I should really start posting in the hockey forum. Bad news for Leafs fans with Clemmensen getting the start today. EGG line back in effect, but I really think the Islanders desire is going to come out ahead.

As a Devil's fan, the Lightning series makes me very nervous. Their season record isn't good against the Lightning and there's been marked amounts of times in each match up where the Devils look like they're completely swarmed and lost. I'll be there for Game 1 or 2 though...go to love how easy it is to get seats at Continental.

great posts here, im in a last longer bet with 5 others we got 2 picks each, i ended up getting Vancouver for west and ottawa for east i like my chances on the west but my only fear is cunucks low scoring and ottawa's goalies, the pens exsplosivnes scares me also but i think if ottawa can make second round they shld go deep

as with DM I'm not going to say anything until draft day is over,
BUT
I will say that the San Jose vs. Nashville and Anaheim vs. Minnesota games should be some of the most interesting.

WEST

Calgary vs Detroit
-Unless Kipper really stands on his head and their offense comes out flying, I don't think the Flames can handle the total-packaged Red Wings. Wings in 6.

Anaheim vs Minnesota
-This is going to be a fast-paced but low-scoring series. I think the Ducks' goaltending and defense will outmatch that of the inexperienced Wild. Also, there's no shootouts in the playoffs. Ducks in 5.

Vancouver vs Dallas
-I like this match-up for my Nuckies (instead facing the Sharks). Turco's performance in the playoffs the last 2 years has been terrible and no shootouts. Throw in the Nucks having the best PK (ie. defense and goalie combo) in the league and pretty clutch in OT, I like their chances. Canucks in 6.

San Jose vs Nashville
-This is going to be a great series, a great PP team vs a very good PK team. Both teams have great goaltending and offense, but I think the Sharks have a slight edge. Sharks in 7.

EAST

Buffalo vs NYI
-This is obvious, no explanation needed. Sabres in 5.

New Jersey vs Tampa Bay
-Lightning's defense and goaltending are too sketchy and inconsistent, and I can't see their shallow offense beating Brodeur 4 times. Devils in 5.

Ottawa vs Pittsburgh
-I think this is going to be a shootout series with these potent offenses. With the Sens being a little deeper at every position and more experienced, they have the edge. Senators in 6.

NY Rangers vs Atlanta
-This is going to be a toss-up series, both teams are pretty even in every facet. Whichever goalie is playing better will decide the series, and I like Lundqvist more. Rangers in 6.

I added the playoff schedule to the original post.

WEST
(1) Detroit vs (8) Calgary
(2) Anaheim vs (7) Minnesota
(3) Vancouver vs (6) Dallas
(4) Nashville vs (5) San Jose

(1) Detriot vs (7) Minnesota
(4) Nashville vs (6) Dallas

(1) Detriot vs (6) Dallas



EAST
(1) Buffalo vs (8) NY Islanders
(2) New Jersey vs (7)Tampa Bay
(3) Atlanta vs (6) NY Rangers
(4) Ottawa vs (5) Pittsburgh

(1) Buffalo vs (6) NY Rangers
(2) New Jersey vs (5) Pittsburgh

(1) Buffalo vs (2) New Jersey



STANLEY CUP FINALS
(1) Buffalo vs (6) Dallas

Dallas Stars will be the 2007 Stanley Cup Champions. You heard it from me FIRST.

WEST

West Quarters

(1) Detroit vs (8) Calgary

Datsyuk has been very hot down the stretch and should finally be set to prove his worth in the playoffs after the huge contract he signed last week. Hasek has managed to not break down and if he remains healthy i think that will be enough for the Red Wings. The Flames have been to inconsistant this season to make a real push. If Kippa starts hot and remains that way he could steal them the series but i like the Wings in this one. Wings in 6.

(2) Anaheim vs (7) Minnesota

The Ducks have been a difficult team to read this year. At times they have looked amazing and other times they have looked exhausted. I think the experience of Giguere, Niedermayer and Pronger proves the difference in this series. I think this will be the closest series of all the first round match ups with at least 2 games heading to OT. If the Wild forecheck ferociously and pepper Giggy with shots and crash the net they will win the series, Neidermayer vs Gaborik will be a great matchup. Ducks in 7.


(3) Vancouver vs (6) Dallas

I really don't know a lot about either of these teams but i am backing Luongo to come up big in his first playoff series. The Nucks have a good scoring threat with the Sedin twins and match up pretty well versus a low scoring Dallas team that are backstopped by a goalie with perenial playoff issues. The Stars will need Modano to play like the Modano of old to progress. Canucks in 5.

(4) Nashville vs (5) San Jose

The Sharks made some moves i liked at the deadline, adding Rivet and Guerin. They have a nice mix youth and experience and are a dark horse in this conference. IF Big Joe finally gets rid of his tag as a playoff choker i expect the Sharks to progress. The Predators paid a price at the deadline in acquiring Forsberg but it remains to be seen whether he can produce at the level he was previously capable. They have very balanced scoring, but dont have a single 30 goal scorer this year, and though their defense is very talented it is also very young and inexperienced in the playoffs. The question here for me is Nashville's goaltending, if Vokoun has a couple of bad games will they go with Mason and undermime Vokoun's confidence? Last year the series ended up in an easy Sharks victory in 5 games, whilst i dont foresee a similar series i believe the result will be similar. Sharks in 6.

West Semi's

(1) Detroit vs (5) San Jose

I think the Sharks will surprise the Wings with their size and speed. By this stage Hasek's groin will be starting to dissolve and the Red Wings could be getting dinged up if Zetterberg, Bertuzzi and Lidstrom havent fully recovered from their pre-playoff injuries. I think the Sharks will take this one in a surprisingly one-sided series. Sharks in 5.

(2) Anaheim vs (3) Vancouver

Giggy vs Luongo, whichever goalie is better is the team that advances. Again i think the Ducks win this one with the experience of Neidermayer and Pronger providing they stay healthy. Whilst he's had a good season Bieksa isn't in the same calibre as those two and the offence they generate from the back up should see the Ducks though, with Penner and the others tipping pucks past Bobby Lu. Ducks in 6.

West Final

(2) Anaheim vs (5) San Jose

Could be the the most exciting series of the whole playoffs. Great goaltending, great offence, stars all over the ice. I believe this one will go back and forth but home ice will eventually decide the winner. The Ducks will be used to the notorious bad Anaheim ice and that little thing could be a factor is a battle of these two well matched team. I see this one going to the wire, every game going with the home team. Ducks in 7.


EAST (coming later)

(1) Buffalo vs (8) NY Islanders
(2) New Jersey vs (7)Tampa Bay
(3) Atlanta vs (6) NY Rangers
(4) Ottawa vs (5) Pittsburgh


Finals

Rematch....Devils vs Ducks final.

Devils win again....yawn

Ahhh my final four is San Jose vs. Anaheim and Buffalo vs. Ottawa with.... Lets go with Anaheim finally getting it done this year.

West

WEST
(1) Detroit vs (8) Calgary

Here we are again, 1st seed and no real chance to win the cup IMHO. If history follows suit then Calgary should lose game 7 in the finals this year. Calgary, Anaheim, and Edmonton all 8 seeds beat the Wings in the first round and lost in game 7 on the Finals. It's our little curse I guess you could say. But I have hopes that the home ice advantage will help with the Flames being horrid on the road this year.

Wings in 6




(2) Anaheim vs (7) Minnesota

This will be an utter snore fest. I probably won't watch one game unless I hear different.

Anahiem in 6

(3) Vancouver vs (6) Dallas

As much as I hate the Canuks as much as the Stars I think the Canuks will walk right through this series.

Nucks in 4

(4) Nashville vs (5) San Jose

This should be a good series. Best of the bunch IMO. I really don't know who to pick. I think I will go for SJ. I think as a team they are more experienced and have a tiny edge. I could easily be wrong though.

SJ in 6

EAST

(1) Buffalo vs (8) NY Islanders

Too easy.

Sabres in 4

(2) New Jersey vs (7)Tampa Bay

Almost as easy.

NJ in 5

(3) Atlanta vs (6) NY Rangers

Hmmm, no experience vs experience?

Atl in 6

(4) Ottawa vs (5) Pittsburgh

This looks to be the best series in the East and possibly the entire 1st round. Will Ottawa ever get far in the playoffs or donk it off as usual? I think it will be status quo.

Pitt in 7

Alright, the matchup are set, so I will continue my record of making insightful analysis of each series, followed closely by my picks being completely wrong (for those that need further proof, I remind you of my Rangers/Stars Cup final prediction from last year!)

East

Buffalo vs NYI: What can you say? The Sabres are healty, and rolling, and even have Tim Connolly on their fourth line (I hope Andrew Peters is practicing his golf swing, cos HIS playing is done for this year). The only wild card is that the Isles love to camp in the crease, and Ryan Smyth will happily fall on a goalie if need be. If he busts the fragile lightweight Miller in two.... the Sabres still win. Buffalo in 5

New Jersey vs TB A more interesting series: These teams actually match up in a strange way. The Lightning are big scorers, and press hard offensively. The Devils lay back and counterpunch. Each team's strength plays into the others weakness. You can't beat Brodeur on first chance opportunities, so you need second and third chances. The Devils D can cough those up. I think this one comes down to special teams, PP vs PK.... Lightning in 7

Atlanta vs NYR High octane offence vs High octane offence. This could come down to goaltending. I think Jagr et al light the lamp more than Hossa/Kovalchuk. The Rangers screwed me last year, so why not pick them again? Rangers in 6.

Ottawa vs Pittsburgh This one is tough. I think the Pens are more talented offensively, and should exploit the Sens D. I think the Sens are deeper and should exploit the Pens D. Goalies are a wash unless Fleury gets hot. Either way, it goes seven. If Pitt gets out of the first round, they go deep. Pens in 7

West

Detroit vs Calgary The wings aren't as hurt as people seem to think. What a great goaltending matchup... Can Dion Phaneuf singlehandedly shut down the Wings? Maybe. Maybe not. Wings in 6.

Anaheim vs Minn The trap only works if you can bust the defense. Pronger and Neidermeyer on the ice for sixty minutes? No contest. Ducks in 5

Vancouver vs Dallas Luongo Luongo Luongo. Stellar season, expect more of the same. However, a 2.00 GAA in the playoffs still allows you to lose 2-1. I'm not convinced the Canucks can score. Unless Marty Turco can't shake his no-show playoff rep, or Naslund all of a sudden shows up, I think Vancouver gets outscored. Dallas in 5

Nashville vs San Jose Could be the marquee matchup in the West. San Jose is too big, too strong, too deep.... Sharks in 6

WEST
(1) Detroit vs (8) Calgary
Detroit in 4 or 5 games. Calgary hasn't played an extended period of good hockey in several months, and realistically, without Kiprusoff, they are not a playoff team. It is unfortunate that colorado couldn't have snuck in, because that would have made for a much more interesting series than this. I know Detroit has a history of first round flops, but it isn't going to happen this year. I can guarantee that they won't underestimate the flames like they did the oilers last year, and Hasek is a hell of a lot better goalie than Manny Legace.

(2) Anaheim vs (7) Minnesota
Aneheim in 6. This oculd actually be a tough series, but Sellanne, Neidermayer, and Pronger will lead Anaheim to the second round

(3) Vancouver vs (6) Dallas
Vancouver in 6. Vancouver is arguably playing the best hockey in the league right now, and with Luongo on his game, they may be unstoppable.

(4) Nashville vs (5) San Jose
San Jose in 5. San Jose is hot, and they didn't have the benefit of playing in the easiest division in the NHL all season to beef up thier point totals. SJ is the better team and it will be painfully obvious in this series.

EAST
(1) Buffalo vs (8) NY Islanders
Buffalo in 4. "Dubie"'s run will soon end, as the talented buffalo scorers will pick him apart. The islanders are lucky to be in the playoffs, and this one should be over quickly. If dipietro plays the whole series, it may go 5 or 6.

(2) New Jersey vs (7)Tampa Bay
New Jersey in 5. Tampa bay has been playing some horrible hockey for about the last month or so. They only have one line and New Jersey should be able to shut them down. NJ pretty much has a decided edge in every single area, and it probably won't even be close

(3) Atlanta vs (6) NY Rangers
NY Rangers in 6. The rangers are playing their best hockey of the season. Atlanta has been struggling a bit recently. It should be a good series, but I like the rangers total package better, and they should win this one.

(4) Ottawa vs (5) Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh in 7. This one could go either way, but it should be an entertaining series. The key might come down to goaltending. As both sides fire away, the inexperienced goaltender who plays the best may steal this one for his team.




for fun, my predictions for the rest of the way:

West
round 2:
San Jose over detroit in 7
Vancouver over anaheim in 6

Round 3:
Vancouver over san jose in 6


East
Round 2:
Buffalo over the rangers in 6
Pittsburgh over NJ in 7

Round 3:
Buffalo over pittsburgh in 6


Stanley Cup:
Vancouver over Buffalo in 7 games

I heart Dubey

East
(1) Buffalo Sabres vs. (8) New York Islanders
(2) New Jersey Devils vs. (7) Tampa Bay Lightning
(3) Atlanta Thrashers vs. (6) New York Rangers
(4) Ottawa Senators vs. (5) Pittsburgh Penguins

West
(1) Detroit Red Wings vs. (8) Calgary Flames
(2) Anaheim Ducks vs. (7) Minnesota Wild
(3) Vancouver Canucks vs. (6) Dallas Stars
(4) Nashville Predators vs. (5) San Jose Sharks

Second Round
(1) Buffalo Sabres vs. (6) New York Rangers
(2) New Jersey Devils vs. (4) Ottawa Senators
(1) Detroit Red Wings vs. (6) Dallas Stars
(2) Anaheim Ducks vs. (5) San Jose Sharks

Conference Finals
(1) Buffalo Sabres vs. (2) New Jersey Devils
(2) Anaheim Ducks vs. (6) Dallas Stars

Finals
(2) New Jersey Devils vs. (2) Anaheim Ducks

My predictions. The correct ones.

Eastern Conference
Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. New York Islanders (8)
I think New York will be able to win one at home but a sweep is also very likely. Even with Dipietro I don't think New York could take this to 6 games.
Buffalo in 5

New Jersey Devils (2) vs. Tampay Bay Lightning (7)
I think this should be a close series but I don't think Tampa can win unless Holmquist can steal a game or two.
Devils in 6

Atlanta Thrashers (3) vs. New York Rangers (6)
The Rangers have played well down the stretch and Lundquist has been the main reason. Avery will help provide grit as well.
Rangers in 7

Ottawa Senators (4) vs. Oittsburgh Penguins (5)
Hailed choke artists for several years, the Sens are a different team this year. They went through a tough slup to start the year, mid-season injuries and some shakey goaltending. The Penguins will have nothing to lose and might play a little too loose. The Sens have the experience of playoff blowups and I don't think they'll repeat that again this year. Whoever advances though, might make a run all the way to the cuo finals.
Ottawa in 7

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. New York Rangers (6)
Buffalo will get to face the better of the two New York teams in the second round and will face tougher competition. Rangers could upset if they get rolling. Who knows what Jagr will show up in the playoffs. Buffalo has too much depth and should overwhelm New York.
Buffalo in 6

New Jersey Devils (2) vs. Ottawa Senators (4)
Ottawa continues to roll and after gaining some confidence are just too much for New Jersey. Brodeur will keep it close but the Devils won't have enough scoring power.
Ottawa in 6

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. Ottawa Senators (4)
If these two teams make it this far together, expect a very good series. Buffalo has the slight edge with depth and will be better rested then Ottawa. For Ottawa to win it will come down to good goaltending by Emery and soft goaltending by Miller.
Buffalo in 6

Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings (1) vs. Calgary Flames (8)
I don't think Calgary has played well enough this year to be major threat but guys like Iginla, Tanguay, Pheneuf and Kiprisuff might be able to carry this team deep into the playoffs. I give them more credit then most but in the end, Calgary won't be able to win on the road when it matters most and Detroit will be too much.
Detroit in 7

Anaheim Ducks (2) vs. Minnesota Wild (7)
The Wild have been hot down the stretch since Gaborik returned and gave the Canucks a real run for their money. Anaheim has not been too impressive down the stretch and I think they will be hard pressed to score. If they win it will be because of Pronger, Needemier and Giguire. People think this series will be boring but with guys like Selanne, Gaborik, Demitra, Roloston, Pronger and Needemier on the ice, it might be very entertaining.
Minnesota in 7

Vancouver Canucks (3) vs. Dallas Stars (6)
Say what you want about Vancouver's scoring, just remember that Dallas scored only 4 more goals during the regular season. The Canucks have been one of the hottest teams down the stretch and split the season series 2 a piece with Dallas. I give the edge to Vancouver due to the goaltending. I fully expect this series to 6 or 7 games. The teams are too evenly matched for it to end any sooner unless a player from one of the teams has a break out series.
Vancouver in 6

Nashville Predators (4) vs. San Jose Sharks (5)
Nashville has a potential game breaker in Forsberg and have a healthy Vokun this year. They might struggle to get enough scoring though. San Jose has no real weakness. They have a solid goalie, a good defensive core and a balanced attack with some leathel scores and one of the best playmakers in the game. Forsberg and Kariya will have to step up for Nashville or its game over.
San Jose in 6

Detroit Red Wings (1) vs. Minnesota Wild (7)
Gaborik will create all kinds of trouble for Detroit and i'm not sure Hasek will be able to hold up in this series. Backstrom might very well out perform him. The key for Detroit will be limiting Minnesota chances while capitilizing on their own. The Wild will frustrate Detroit I think and I give them the edge.
Minnesota in 6

Vancouver (3) vs. San Jose Sharks (5)
The offensive edge goes to San Jose easily but Vancouver will do a good job in shutting them down. Vancouver will need guys like Naslund, Morrison and Smolinski to step up and provide scoring in order to win. Agitators like Cooke, Cowan and Ohlund could make the difference in the series but it will be hard to shut down San Jose's potent attack. This series goes the distance.
San Jose in 7

San Jose Sharks (5) vs. Minnesota (7)
A series that can go either way, although I think San Jose has the edge. Minnisota will need timelys goals and saves to pull off a win and as hot as they are, San Jose will be too much.
San Jose in 6

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. San Jose Sharks (5)
This will be a fun one to watch as both teams are high scoring and there should be some open ice hockey. I'm not sure if Miller will be good enough for Buffalo to take down this series. He'll need to be on top of his game for Buffalo to win. In the end I think San Jose will be too much.
San Jose in 7

WEST
(1) Detroit vs (8) Calgary
I think Calgary is a good sleeper pick because they now have some offense to go along with Kiprusoff. If Kipper finds his groove the Flames can ride him a long way. I really liked Detroit a few weeks ago, but they seemed to have picked up a few injuries at maybe the worst possible time. Lidstrom is not 100%, Kronwall is out, Zetterberg should be back, but will he be 100%? Now Bertuzzi has a mild concussion. The Wings seem to be falling apart before the gruelling playoffs begin. Calgary in 6.

(2) Anaheim vs (7) Minnesota
Anaheim is just too strong here. They can have either Pronger or Niedermayer on the ice at all times. Minnesota will have to play a flawless game to beat Anaheim. Anaheim in 5.

(3) Vancouver vs (6) Dallas
Dallas is a sleeping giant. They can absolutely shut down an offense and Vancouver's offense is a prime target. Marty Turco has something to prove and Brendan Morrow is November fresh. Stars in 6.

(4) Nashville vs (5) San Jose
San Jose is a bipolar team. They can look great one game and then absolutely awful the next. As for Nashville, they seem more like a collection of parts than a team...not that the parts are all that bad. San Jose in 7.

EAST
(1) Buffalo vs (8) NY Islanders
The Islanders should win at least a game and maybe two. Buffalo in 5.

(2) New Jersey vs (7)Tampa Bay
This should be an interesting series. I think Brodeur is the difference. New Jersey in 7.

(3) Atlanta vs (6) NY Rangers
I don't like Atlanta's game at all. I think Lundqvist is in a groove and the Ranger's battle for the playoffs down the stretch has helped them get in the playoff mode early. Rangers in 6.

(4) Ottawa vs (5) Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh matches up very well against Ottawa, but I think the Senators will prove too much for the inexperienced Pens. Ottawa in 6.

Buffalo better not fucking win it.

look who's using his newly learned skill

calgary over detroit in 7 : Hot goalie plus injuries for detroit
anaheim over minnesota in 6 : Twin towers too much for Gaborik and co
dallas over vancouver in 6 : dallas made the right moves at the deadline
san jose over nashville in 6 : repeat of last year almost. injuries again for nash and san jose is one year older

buffalo over new york in 4 : no explanation needed
tampa bay over new jersey in 7 : brodeur and elias arent enough against the former champs
atlanta over new york in 6 : atlanta added too much for the rangers to handle
ottawa over pittsburg in 6 : ottawa finally gets it together

anaheim over calgary in 5 : kipper wins one series but not enough goal support this time
san jose over dallas in 6 : tons of forward depth. 50% of each game will be in the dallas zone

buffalo over tampa bay in 6 : tampa surprises but not enough
ottawa over atlanta in 6 : alfredsson carries the team on his back in this series

san jose over anaheim in 7 : tough fought but marleau has 2 hat tricks to lead his club to the finals

buffalo over ottawa in 6 : ottawa finally seems like a contender it should have been but outmatched here

san jose over buffalo in 7 : seven overtime games goes down in history as one of the all-time best final series

all picks done with my head (note: series involving san jose done with my heart)

FYP (fuck you pal)

Calgary vs Detroit

Detroit is too strong, IMO. Calgary hasn't played well in a long time, either. Detroit in 5.

Anaheim vs Minnesota

Again, Anaheim is too strong for the Wild. They say defense wins championships, and the Ducks have the top two d-men in the league. I think the Wild can squeeze a win or two out though, I'll go with Anaheim in 6.

Vancouver vs Dallas

I just think Vancouver is a better team here. It's going to be a good series though. Vancouver in 7.

San Jose vs Nashville

Another great matchup. I think SJ's goaltending is the difference here, as well as the fact that Thornton and Cheechoo, et al have been turning it up at the right time. SJ in 7.


Buffalo vs NY Islanders

I think this is the only series with sweep potential. However, I think Ryan Smyth will will one out. Buffalo in 5.

New Jersey vs Tampa Bay

Devils and Brodeur should be able to shutdown TB's scoring. Devils in 6.

Ottawa vs Pittsburgh

Homer pick, Pens are too wicked awesome. Honestly though, I think Ottawa is their worst first round matchup out of any other team in the East, except Buffalo. However, looking at the games they've played this season, Pittsburgh just seems to be the better team. If they can stay focused defensively, I think they'll win this one. Pens in 6.

NY Rangers vs Atlanta

Lunqvist is the difference in this series. Rangers in 6.

Someone needs to break this down for me. If u know the playoff system, will the sharks and ducks meet in the 2nd round if all goes right or will it be the third?

They get reseeded after the first round. Top seed in the conference plays the bottom seed, and the two middle seats meet.

Ottawa guys is it true tix are still available for game one and two. Now thats making a statement. Also Iam sure CBC is jumping for joy with the Sat night game of NJ vs TB. No offense to either club but not a matchup the CBC is looking for.

Yes, tix are still available

here are some series prices for those interested. Most of them look pretty even to me.

To Win Series


OTT Senators v PIT Penguins Book Closes Apr 11 16:05


PIT Penguins +165 Bet
OTT Senators -185 Bet

NAS Predators v SJ Sharks Book Closes Apr 11 17:00


SJ Sharks -110 Bet
NAS Predators -110 Bet

VAN Canucks v DAL Stars Book Closes Apr 11 19:05


DAL Stars +105 Bet
VAN Canucks -125 Bet

ANA M Ducks v MIN Wild Book Closes Apr 11 19:35


MIN Wild +160 Bet
ANA M Ducks -180 Bet

DET Redwings v CAL Flames Book Closes Apr 12 16:05


CAL Flames +220 Bet
DET Redwings -270 Bet

ATL Thrashers v NY Rangers Book Closes Apr 12 16:05


NY Rangers -105 Bet
ATL Thrashers -115 Bet

NJ Devils v TB Lightning Book Closes Apr 12 16:35


TB Lightning +175 Bet
NJ Devils -210 Bet

BUF Sabres v NY Islanders Book Closes Apr 12 17:05


NY Islanders +475 Bet
BUF Sabres -650 Bet

wow, why is the juice so sick for this bet?

Eastern Conference
Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. New York Islanders (8)
Buffalo in 5

New Jersey Devils (2) vs. Tampay Bay Lightning (7)
Devils in 6

Atlanta Thrashers (3) vs. New York Rangers (6)
Rangers in 7

Ottawa Senators (4) vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (5)
Ottawa in 7

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. New York Rangers (6)
Buffalo in 6

New Jersey Devils (2) vs. Ottawa Senators (4)
Ottawa in 6

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. Ottawa Senators (4)
Buffalo in 6

Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings (1) vs. Calgary Flames (8)
Detroit in 7

Anaheim Ducks (2) vs. Minnesota Wild (7)
Minnesota in 7

Vancouver Canucks (3) vs. Dallas Stars (6)
Vancouver in 6

Nashville Predators (4) vs. San Jose Sharks (5)
San Jose in 6

Detroit Red Wings (1) vs. Minnesota Wild (7)
Minnesota in 6

Vancouver (3) vs. San Jose Sharks (5)
San Jose in 7

San Jose Sharks (5) vs. Minnesota (7)
San Jose in 6

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. San Jose Sharks (5)
San Jose in 7

These are my picks using my nogin as I posted above. I wanted to see if I was any better in picks by rolling a dice. Initial roll was to decide who would win. 1,2,3 meant the higher seed won while 4,5,6 meant the lower seed won. Second role was to decide in how many games. 4=4, 5=5, 6=6, 1=7, 2&3=roll again. Initial picks in bold. Dice picks in red.

Eastern Conference
Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. New York Islanders (8)
Buffalo in 5
Buffalo in 5 - the dice agrees with me.

New Jersey Devils (2) vs. Tampay Bay Lightening (7)
Devils in 6
Tampa Bay in 6

Atlanta Thrashers (3) vs. New York Rangers (6)
Rangers in 7
Rangers in 5

Ottawa Senators (4) vs. Oittsburgh Penguins (5)
Ottawa in 7
Ottawa in 6

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. Tampa Bay Lightning (7)
Tampa Bay in 4

Ottawa Senators (4) vs. New York Rangers (6)
Ottawa in 5

Ottawa Senators (4) vs. Tampa Bay Lightning (7)
Tampa Bay in 5

Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings (1) vs. Calgary Flames (8)
Detroit in 7
Calgary in 6

Anaheim Ducks (2) vs. Minnesota Wild (7)
Minnesota in 7
Minnesota in 5

Vancouver Canucks (3) vs. Dallas Stars (6)
Vancouver in 6
Dallas in 6

Nashville Predators (4) vs. San Jose Sharks (5)
San Jose in 6
Nashville in 5

Nashville Predators (4) vs. Calgary Flames (8)
Clagary in 6

Dallas Stars (6) vs. Minnosota Wild (7)
Dallas in 6

Dallas Stars (6) vs. Calgary Flames (8)
Calgary in 6

Dallas Stars (6) vs. Tampbay Lightning (7)
Calgary in 7
Calgary gets their revenge.

(1) Buffalo vs (8) New York Islanders
(2) New Jersey vs (7) Tampa Bay
(3) Atlanta vs (6) New York Rangers
(4) Ottawa vs (5) Pittsburgh

(1) Detroit vs (8) Calgary
(2) Anaheim vs (7) Minnesota
(3) Vancouver vs (6) Dallas
(4) Nashville vs (5) San Jose



(1) Buffalo vs (6) New York Rangers
(2) New Jersey vs (5) Pittsburgh

(1) Detroit vs (6) Dallas
(2) Anaheim vs (4) Nashville


(5) Pittsburgh vs (6) New York Rangers

(1) Detroit vs (4) Nashville



(4) Nashville vs (5) Pittsburgh

Troyomac - I like your style.

Go Pens!

Edited for slightly easier reading...

and yes..ship me $3100 please! (plus being a Bruins fan, I can't sway from the Black and Gold(or yellow)

My prediction is by this time next week I will be so sick of seeing the Detroit Red Wings on TV that I might not have a TV anymore. Rumor has it that there will only be two Wild games broadcast on Versus, the rest of them will be on some local station out of the Twin Cities which 90 percent of the state doesn't get in. Isnt two hours from the border close enough to get TSN?

The versus schedule is ugly, tonight instead of seeing a much more exciting match up in my opinion of Anaheim vs. Minnesota, we get a more dull game of Vancouver vs. Dallas.

No kidding about the scheduling, so many games start after 9 or 9:30. My poor nephew last night was almost crying his eyes out because he had to be in bed for most of the playoff games he wanted to watch. I think his mother just needs to lighten up, I remember being his age and laying in bed watching I think it was the Penguins go into five overtimes. Could be exagerating a little bit but I know I didnt get to bed before 2 when that game was over.

Just wanted to get a little factoid in here: A No. 7 seed has defeated a No. 2 in each of the last nine postseasons.

I'm stoked, there are some unbelievable first round match ups.