Second Round Predictions

After an entertaining opening round, the taste of Stanley Cup victory just got sweeter for eight teams, as they advanced to the next series. I was 6 for 8 in my predictions for the first round. Here are my predictions on how I think the second round will go down:

Eastern Conference

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs New York Rangers (6)
My prediction: Sabres in 6

Once again, it’s the same story every time a team faces Buffalo. They have too much fire power on offense. The city of New York will take its second try to eliminate the Sabres as the Islanders failed in the first round. New York surprised many by sweeping the offensively-talented Atlanta Thrashers in the opening series, but they now stand a slim chance against Buffalo. It will take a major team effort to shut down the four scoring lines of the Sabres, not only that, they will have to outscore them. There is no doubt that the Rangers should not be underestimated because they have the right material to possibly pull off an upset, however, it seems quite unlikely as it might not be as effective against the NHL best regular season team. The Rags will give the Sabres a scare but it won’t be enough. Smart on New York to start trash talking before the series starts though, but they’ll just have to walk the talk in this round.

New Jersey Devils (2) vs Ottawa Senators (4)
My prediction: Senators in 7

Canada’s hope in the East will have to go against a familiar foe in the defensively-minded Devils. New Jersey brings playoff experience, defense and goaltending to the table. Ottawa brings offense, special teams and a stronger depth on the bottom lines, which could possibly be the difference maker of this series. The Sens have one of the most balanced teams in the league, as they look strong on every aspect of the team, and it will take a “team” effort to knock out the Devils, who always seem to find a way to win. Emery will have to outplay Brodeur, which would be a very difficult feat. It will definitely be a hard fought battle and in my views, I see Ottawa gutting out a win in the end. It seems as if they have a greater desire to be successful this year. Once again, who wants it more?

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (1) vs San Jose Sharks (5)
My prediction: Red Wings in 6

Dare I say, powerhouse versus powerhouse? The Red Wings have been one of the best NHL teams over the past decade, and they arn’t close to faltering. Detroit was once again the top seed in the West but the Sharks will put up a major challenge for them. It’s going to be tough to call, especially San Jose’s ability to throw their bodies around, which could make it difficult for the Wings. But don’t expect Motown to back down as they will engage in physical play. Hasek is the better goaltender of this series and he will have to show that in order to advance. Both teams have a good shot, but the winner will be the team who plays their own style the best. Detroit can dominate opponents night in and night out, while San Jose will have to shut down opposing offense with great team defense and step up their overall game. It’s definitely a must watch matchup.

Anaheim Ducks (2) vs Vancouver Canucks (3)
My prediction: Canucks in 7

Maybe it’s the bias speaking again but I believe Vancouver can pull it off. They head into the series as underdogs against a very intimidating squad. The Ducks are strong on defense, with Neidermayer and Pronger leading the way, and have two strong scoring lines, with a mix of youth and experience. Anaheim also has one of the best shut-down checking lines in the NHL and they will work on Vancouver’s offensive threat in the Sedin twins. Although Vancouver seems to have a deeper defensive unit, they will have to improve from their first round performance, and shut down that threatening Ducks’ offense. Vancouver will also have to find a way to score, as they were shut out three times by Dallas in the opening series. Of course, the name Luongo has to be mentioned as he is probably the best goalie currently in the NHL playoffs. It will be a battle between him and Giguere. The matchups are endless in this round. It wouldn’t surprise me to see Vancouver, once again, play a game seven and push the Ducks to the limit, it’s going to be exciting for sure.

Bring on the second round as the race to the Stanley Cup just got even more heated. Remember, you have to beat the best, to be the best. May the best team prevail.

 Hosea C

No end in games, No stop in complains

Once again fans have found something to complain about when it comes to the NHL. The latest whine: Playoff overtime games are too long and the league should change it so they can score faster.

Give me a break! If fans claim to be true hockey fans, they should be thrilled to watch long sudden death overtimes.

I personally was at the Vancouver Canucks vs Dallas Stars game one last Wednesday when it took four overtimes to finally settle the contest. The game ended around 12:30 am, five and a half hours after it started. Did I complain? No way, because it was way better then I expected.

However, I heard people around me complaining and providing stupid suggestions on how to solve the problem, such as “they should hand out more penalties” “they should just make each team play one man short each extra frame” and my favourite “they should go to the shootout”.

Are you people kidding me? This is playoff hockey, not exhibition or regular season. The teams are going to do whatever it takes to win the game, not use the shootout to decide it. Also, just because one game takes forever to end, it doesn’t mean that they should change the playoff overtime format. Let me make this clear: The current format is fine the way it is!

I was more then happy to get two games for the price of one, as that $180 ticket took a huge hit in my wallet. For all those that left during the game, I hope you are ashamed of yourself. Next time, please give your tickets to real hockey fans, who won’t leave no matter how late it is even if they have to get up at five to go to work the next day.

Welcome to playoff hockey. It’s the most exciting time of the year, and it would be even better if fans quit complaining.

Hosea C

Who is this kid?

With Matt Cooke and Ryan Kesler succumbed to injuries, the Vancouver Canucks had no other option but to turn to their farm team for quick help. Currently in the playoffs against the Dallas Stars, the Canucks needed something, anything to replace their losses.

But what they brought up from the Manitoba Moose was more then they expected.

Meet Jannik Hansen. This 21-year-old forward from Denmark was the ninth round pick of the Canucks in 2004. But from the past two playoff games he’s played in for Vancouver, it’s pretty hard to tell he was chosen that late.

This no-namer Dane, who happens to be the second player ever from Denmark to play in the NHL, impressed fans, teammates, coaches and the media during his first game last Friday. Although he didn’t contribute on the scoreboard, his presence, most notably his speed, was felt throughout the game. He looked natural on the ice, maybe a little nervous but he was out there to prove himself. And that he did.

When it came to the following contest and his second NHL game, he rose up yet another level. Recording his first ever NHL assist, he helped set up Vancouver’s tying goal and formed a potent second line with Brendan Morrison and Jan Bulis. Hansen’s play drew approval and praise from Vancouver fans, most of whom have been hit with the playoff fever. Simply put, the Canucks are buzzing about this kid.

Where did he come from? Is he a sign of good things to come from Vancouver’s prospects?

Canucks fans will have to wait and see. But for now, let’s hope Hansen continues his impressive performance in the post-season and maybe provide a positive spark for this offensively challenged squad. After that, Hansen can turn his attention to competing for a regular spot on Vancouver’s roster next season.

Keep up the good work, you great Dane.

Hosea C

First Round Predictions

Well, it’s that time of the year and I’ve been hit with playoff fever. I love it and I’m pretty pumped for the games to start tonight. Here are my predictions on how I think the first round will go down:

Eastern Conference

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs New York Islanders (8)
My prediction: Sabres in 5

Cinderella story stops here for the Islanders, as they have to go up against the best team in the NHL. With returning players from injury, Buffalo is even more of a threat on offense as they can run four very talented lines. If Miller gets injured, it might be a different story but their offense can still help them win games. On New York’s side, they can’t match the Sabres in goal scoring and a third-string goalie can only carry you for so long. However, many do thank them for knocking out the Leafs. Playoff run for the Isles are short, they should enjoy it while it lasts.

New Jersey Devils (2) vs Tampa Bay Lightnings (7)
My prediction: Devils in 6

One simple reason as to why New Jersey will win this series: Martin Brodeur. This is a classic matchup between defense and offense. The Lightnings’ Vincent Lecavalier will be their main threat but if the Devils can slow or stop him, Tampa Bay won’t get far. Also, Tampa’s goalies are no match compared to New Jerseys. This battle of recent Stanley Cup winners will be pretty interesting, but could make for a boring series if they revert to New Jersey’s style of play.

Atlanta Thrashers (3) vs New York Rangers (6)
My prediction: Thrashers in 6

When it comes to scoring, Atlanta has a more well-rounded offense corp and they can be pretty explosive. New York might carry the experience factor with Jagr and Shanahan, but it’s nothing for the Thrashers to fret about. If Lehtonen plays his A game, I believe Atlanta won’t have a probably taking out the Rags. Avery might give New York a boost, especially when it comes to unnerving Atlanta’s top players. When it’s all said and done, the Thrashers will win their first ever playoff series.

Ottawa Senators (4) vs Pittsburgh Penguins (5)
My prediction: Penguins in 7

In what should be one of the most exciting series, the Penguins will outlast the Sens to advance to the second round. With a combination of youthful talent, hello Sidney Crosby, and a good contingent of veterans, Pittsburgh seems poised to win. Ottawa will try to shake their playoff choke label but they are up against a very talented team. The Senators, however, arn’t too shabby themselves as they carry Canada’s eastern conference hopes. This series will definitely go down to the wire, it might even take overtime in game seven to decide the winner. It’s a must watch matchup.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (1) vs Calgary Flames (8)
My prediction: Red Wings in 6

No more upset for Detroit this year. The Flames squeaked into the playoffs and they will face the Western powerhouse. With Hasek remaining healthy in goal, the Wings will quickly distinguish Calgary’s flame, contrary to what many believe. It won’t be a repeat from the past years where the eighth place teams upset everyone. If Datsyuk manages to show up for the playoffs, it only adds to the many threats of the Red Wings. However, Calgary is the underdog here and they just might play better with less load on their shoulders. We know a matchup like this will definitely be a gritty contest.

Anaheim Ducks (2) vs Minnesota Wild (7)
My prediction: Ducks in 5

There is no way that Minnesota can match up to Anaheim’s defense. The Ducks have a very strong blueline corp led by Scott Neidermayer and Chris Pronger, plus their goaltenders are playoff proven. Anaheim is too much for the Wild, even though they probably have one of the best teams in their history. It will be a very tough challenge for them, one where they won’t be able to overcome as the Ducks will make light work out of them. This series won’t be one of the most watched but it has potential to be entertaining.

Vancouver Canucks (3) vs Dallas Stars (6)
My prediction: Canucks in 5

Two of the deepest defensive units in the league faceoff against each other as these two teams possess strong blueliners. The main matchup in this series is definitely between Roberto Luongo and Marty Turco. Turco has been known to choke, while Luongo hasn’t even played in a post-regular season game. It’ll be up to those two to win it for their teams. When it comes to offense, Vancouver will have a slight edge as they can run three strong lines that can score and a fourth good checking unit. The Sedins will be a huge part in Vancouver’s success, while Dallas will need their regulars to step up once again in the playoffs. All games are probably going to be tight, which can either make for either boring hockey or very entertaining hockey.

Nashville Predators (4) vs San Jose Sharks (5)
My prediction: Sharks in 7

Two very talented teams will take it to the final horn to decide this series. Both squads have firepower, speed and size. This matchup will come down to hunger and desire. Whichever team wants it more, will win it. When it comes to goaltending, they both have different strengths and weaknesses. However, this is a very good matchup and it will serve for one of the best series in the first round. Both teams are contenders, and its a shame to see one of them kicked out in the first round. Who wants it more?

So NHL fans, are you ready? The race to Lord Stanley is on. Let’s get this party started!

 Hosea C

Canadians will ‘fight’ back

A survey done by Decima says that 76 per cent of avid Canadian hockey fans are against eliminating fighting from the NHL.

Wow, shouldn’t that send a message to critics of the hockey brouhahas?

It doesn’t seem like it’ll happen, but if fighting was taken out from hockey, the NHL might face the biggest backlash from fans in a long time. Especially from those above the border. The NHL has to realize the difference between fan opinions and public opinions. Maybe they might gain a bigger fan base if they eliminate fighting, but that’s just an assumption. A fact however, is that they will anger many loyals to the game if they take out one of hockey’s traditions.

Stop even suggesting that fighting has to go. Don’t mess with our game.

I think this poll says it all: Take out fighting and we’ll fight back.

For more information on the poll, go here

Hosea C

Hart to Hart

The NHL regular season is coming to an end and the debate has already begun. Who will win the Hart trophy for the Most Valuable Player?

For the last half of the season, many predicted the three finalists will be Pittsburgh Penguins’ Sidney Crosby, Vancouver Canucks’ Roberto Luongo and New Jersey Devils’ Martin Brodeur. However, Crosby and Luongo seem to be the two lead runners now in this race.

Let’s get this straight, if it was possible, I think both Crosby and Luongo should both win it, but unfortunately there can only be one winner. So how should it be decided?

The way this trophy is awarded is through votes from hockey writers across the nation. The flaw in this system, however, is that a majority of such writers are from the East, so basically, they are in bed before the Canucks even start playing. Is this going to affect Roberto’s chances of winning? I think it just might.

Here’s how everyone should look at this. The Hart trophy is for the most VALUABLE player, this doesn’t mean, the BEST player, it means the most valuable to their team. We can dig up stats all we want and both these athletes has an incredible resume for this season but where would their team be without them?

In Pittsburgh’s case, Sidney has lit up the league with a spectacular season as he’s dominating the scoring race. His ability to score and his amazing talent has helped the Penguins get into the post-season for the first time in who knows how long. But I’m not saying that they would have reached the playoffs anyways without Crosby, I’m saying that Crosby isn’t their only scoring talent. With Evgeni Malkin possibly winning the Calder Trophy and Marc-Andre Fleury shining in goal, this young Pittsburgh team has a strong contingent of talent and scoring punch. It’s just that Crosby stands one head taller above them all.

In Vancouver’s case, Roberto has stole countless games for this team. Take a look at how many one-goal games the Canucks have won, it’s incredible. If Cloutier was still in net, Vancouver would probably be in Edmonton’s current situation, as the ‘Nucks haven’t had this strong goaltending since Captain Kirk. They are two games away from clinching the Northwest Division title, and a major part of that is because of Luongo’s goaltending. There have been many games this year where it seemed as if he was the only Canuck who showed up to play hockey, and it led to victories for this team. Look where the Canucks are now in the standings, would they have gotten there without Luongo?

It’s down to these two brilliant hockey players. The question every fan should ask themselves is this: Which player is more valuable to their team?

The answer to this question should take home the Hart.

Hosea C

Bracket Finale

So after I incorrectly predicted Ohio St. as the winner in my brackets, I ended up finishing at 74.6% on my bracket picks. It’s not bad considering I don’t follow NCAA very closely.

Maybe some of my picks were flukes but the biggest game that ruined my result was UCLA eliminating Kansas. I had chosen Kansas and Ohio St. to be in the finals with the Buckeyes winning. I started off strong but the big games, with the big points, were not too good for me. Well we all know how that turned out. Anyways, it was fun while it lasted, because really, 47 correct picks out of 63 isn’t too bad.

I can’t wait till next year.

How did your brackets turn out?

Hosea C