With the match ups set for round two in the East and only Vancouver taking on Dallas in a game 7 tonight, the NHL playoffs are progressing quite smoothly. With the West still to be decided, there’s no reason we can’t have an East preview here now, is there?
Ottawa vs. New Jersey: The Senators had little to no problem against Sidney Crosby and the young Penguins but the Devils are a whole different monster. Jersey may have had some trouble with the Lightning but that was a trend all year. I can’t really see the Senators pulling it out against Marty Brodeur and Jersey’s superb defensive style but very well could take them the distance.
Pick: New Jersey in 6.
Buffalo vs. New York: The Sabres get their second intra-New York match up of the playoffs after knocking out the Islanders in 5. The Rangers breezed through an overwhelmed Thrashers team. Jagr and company could steal a game or two but this is the Sabres series to lose.
Pick: Buffalo in 5.