I may not have gotten the number of victories for the eight remaining teams correct, but I did pick all the winners. Detroit and New Jersey gave me concern with how long it took them to eliminate their rather unimpressive, lower-seated opponents. My friend Brian the Red Wings fan would probably be more pessimistic with his team and he even stated he’s already more absorbed with the Tigers lately. Probably expects a second-round exit for them.
Anyhow, I still have my Stanley Cup beard (24 days old) which I have decided will not be shaved off until Detroit and New Jersey are eliminated or one them wins the Cup.
My predictions this time and ESPN didn’t set up a poll, yet:
For the West:
- #1 Detroit v. #5 San Jose: Detroit Red Wings in 7. Sharks are tough and Red Wings took too long to eliminate the Flames, but they will prevail.
- #2 Anaheim v. #3 Vancouver: Anaheim Ducks in 5. Ducks are on a roll and Canucks struggled with the Stars.
For the East:
- #1 Buffalo v. #6 NY Rangers: Buffalo Sabres in 6. Sabres aren’t suffering from any serious injuries but the Rangers will drag this out courtesy of Avery gooning it up.
- #2 New Jersey v. #4 Ottawa: New Jersey Devils in 7. The Senators aren’t quite the team they used to be but their offense is still dangerous with Heatly, Comrie and Hossa to plague Marty Brodeur. I favor the Devils even though they should’ve rolled over the Lightning. I think their GM is creating a self-fulfilling prophecy by firing the coach.