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