2007 First Round Hockey Predictions

In the new NHL new teams can stack-up with over-priced players. The teams are all on even ground and there is very little difference between the top-sided and bottom seeded teams. The teams that made the playoffs have a bit of an edge because it is tough making the playoffs and all of the bottom seeded teams have had to be hot to make the playoffs. Like last year I expect several upsets.

Detroit vs Calgary

Dominik Hasek is too old and past his greatnesss. The Flames have a huge edge in goaltending with Kipper one of the best goalies in the league. The Flames downfall is their skaters who have been struggling but the playoffs is the right time to turn it around. A playoff victory by Calgary could energize the struggling Flames to repeat a similar pattern that led the Oilers to the Stanley Cup Final.

Calgary in 7

Anaheim vs Minnesota

All 3 Wild goalies have been amongst the best goalies in the league this year. The Wild added a few offensive players to adapt to the new NHL and with solid goaltending they are very difficult to beat. Sure the ducks have Niedermayer and Pronger but the rest of the team hasn't dominated as much as they were expected to.

Minnesota in 6

Vancouver vs Dallas

Robert Luongo has single handily made the Canucks a playoff team. The Dallas Stars are a team on the decline and the Canucks will be to overpowering for them.

Vancouver in 6

Nashville vs San Jose

A very close matchup. The difference is the Predators were able to acquire Peter Forsberg who will give Nashville the edge.

Nashville in 7

Buffalo vs NY Islanders

Will this be the Revenge of Ted Nolan who was canned 9 years by the Sabres? Probably not with Dipetero injured but this team isn't ready to drop dead yet.

Buffalo in 7

New Jersey vs Tampa Bay

Martin Brodeur has been the league's best player this season. But after playing in virutally every game this year, how much does he have left to stop St. Louis, Lecavailer, Richards, and Boyle?

Tampa Bay in 7

Atlanta vs NY Rangers

The NY Rangers made the playoffs with spectacular goaltending from Henrik Lundqvist who turned around his game. With a offense led by Jagr and Shanahan the Rangers will overpower the Thrashers in their first playoff appearance.

NY Rangers in 5

Ottawa vs Pittsburgh

Sydney Crosby, Malkin, and Fleury will all make their first playoff appearance and the Senators will the first team to witness the first run of a potential dynasty. But will the Penguins youth all struggle when times get rough.

Pittsburgh in 6.