Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers
On paper, the Caps should win this series every single time and I really don’t have a problem with picking them in this series. A lot of people will point to the lack of experience with goaltending with this Washington team as a future problem in later rounds and I agree with that, but I think there could be a bigger problem that arises. What is the true identity of this team? Have they truly turned the corner and become a defensive team? I just wonder what will happen if they face a deficit. Will they revert back to being a run-and-gun team if they find themselves in trouble?
Pick: Washington in 5
Philadelphia Flyers vs. Buffalo Sabres
A lot of people are pointing to this series as the upset special based on the fact that the Flyers struggled in their final 20 games to coast their way to the second seed. Meanwhile, the Sabres have had to fight so hard just to make it in by winning 8 of their last 10. If you listen to Sportscall every day, you know I’m all about momentum as well, but I’m still taking the Flyers. This team is built to win in the playoffs. I think they’ll be able to flip on the switch and get back to top form. Their big-time advantage in the size, depth and physicality departments are sure to be a big help as well.
Pick: Philadelphia in 6
Boston Bruins vs. Montreal Canadiens
This one is the hardest series to pick because of all the different off-ice variables that come with this series. How does either team handle the pressure of playing in such an emotional rivalry series? How do the Bruins rebound after an embarrassing collapse to Philly last season? How do the Habs respond to the challenge of trying to repeat their magical run of a year ago? Is there still some fallout from the Chara/Pacioretty hit from early March? So many questions and so many variables. I would avoid betting on this series at all costs, but I’ll throw out a pick to keep some continuity within the entry.
Pick: Boston in 7
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Dan Bylsma deserves a hell of a lot of credit for being able to keep his team on the rails and continue to win on a regular basis despite missing their top two players in Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. However, as we all know, it’s one thing to perform in the regular season and another to perform in the playoffs. The obvious question for the Pens: Do they have enough depth for a seven-game series? For the Lightning, the biggest contribution they’ll need will have to come from their blue line and back. If the defense and goaltending falter, this Lightning team is going nowhere. The defense has to be solid and Dwayne Roloson has to try and find some of his form from 2006.
Pick: Tampa Bay in 6