It certainly was an exciting start to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Game 7 showdowns between Toronto and Boston, Washington and New York, and Detroit and Anaheim. The Canucks were first out, swept by San Jose. Look for big changes to happen in Vancouver over the off-season.
Montreal just had too many key players injured and couldn't match Ottawa's overall intensity.
So, here is how I fared with my first-round predictions, a very dismal three of eight. It almost makes me not want to try for round two, but I will press on.
Pittsburgh received a wake-up call from the New York Islanders, and I think the message has been heard. I don't see them taking Ottawa lightly, but have just too much depth for the Senators. I like Sid and Pens in six.
A classic Boston-New York showdown highlights the second round. Henrik Lundqvist has turned it up with two straight shutouts and he should lead the Rangers to the conference final, in six games.
In the West, Patrick Sharp's Chicago Blackhawks will be in tough against Detroit in another Original Six matchup. The Blackhawks should advance to the conference final, in a tough six game series.
The Los Angeles Kings turned on the power after dropping the first two against the Blues, and now Mike Richards and company are rolling. They will crown the Sharks in five games.
Enjoy the second round!
