» NHL Playoffs First Round Predictions

The NHL Playoffs start this Wednesday on April 11th and here are my predictions for the first round of playoffs. This is when we will see the truly talented and experienced teams excel. The veterans will step up, and teams such as Calgary will play with a lot more heart. There will be no shoot-outs in the playoffs, so teams that have relied on the shoot-out to give them the extra point will now have to play to win.

West
Detroit vs. Calgary
Calgary in 6 games. Calgary has the talent, and they’ll step it up when the time comes. While I’m not confident they will make it to the finals, I feel good about them making it past the first round.

Anaheim vs. Minnesota
This series was more of a guess for me and Minnesota wont be able to rely on the shoot-out anymore so I’m going with Anaheim in 6.

Vancouver vs. Dallas
The Sedin twins, as much as I hate them will carry the team past the first round. Give them any opportunity, and they will take advantage. Vancouver in 5.

Nashville vs. San Jose
This will be a very entertaining series to watch, lots of talent on both sides but San Jose will take it in 7.

East
Buffalo vs. New York (Islanders)
Buffalo has been playing strong all year, and with the return of a couple injured players their lineup is healthy as ever. Buffalo in 5.

New Jersey vs. Tampa
Strong goaltending is going to win this series. New Jersey in 5.

Atlanta vs. New York (Rangers)
Atlanta will take this in 6.

Ottawa vs. Pittsburgh
I don’t think the NHL’s scoring leader will be able to carry his team past the first round. Ottawa in 6.

GO FLAMES GO!

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