2008 First Round NHL Predictions

Boston vs Montreal

Both Boston and Montreal weren't surefire picks to make it to the playoffs this year. But thanks to comeback players like Kovalev and Sturm both teams are still playing hockey in mid April. Montreal's playoff hopes rest on Carey Price who won the Calder Cup last year and even without Captain Saku Koivu the Canadiens depth should allow them to make it to the second round.

Montreal in 7 games.

Pittsburgh vs Ottawa

The Senators collapsed in the second half and barely made it to the playoffs after an explosive start. Pittsburgh has the NHL's top 2 most explosive centers (Crosby and Malkin) and will be very difficult to be stopped. But the Senators are more experienced than the Penguins and could surprise them.

Pittsburgh in 7 games.


Washington vs Philadelphia

The Capitals squeaked into the playoffs by riding a 7 game win streak. Ovechkin was the league's top player this year and with the addition of Huet the Capitals will make a mark in the playoffs.

Washington in 6 games.


New Jersey vs New York Rangers

Both teams are very evenly matched and the Devils get the edge because Brodeur is one of hockey's most consistent goalies.

New Jersey in 7 games.

Detroit vs Nashville

The Predators surprisingly made the playoffs despite losing their top goalie, top defenseman, and top 2 forwards. But the Cinderella story ends here where the Red Wings (my choice to win the Cup this year) are vastly superior to them in every category.

Detroit in 4 games.

San Jose vs Calgary

Calgary has consistently faltered and failed to live up to their potential. Kipper had his worst regular season ever as a Flames starter and if he's great he could beat a tired Nabokov who played in 77 out of 82 games this year. Despite the Flames struggles this year they did score more goals than the Sharks this season.

Calgary in 7 games.

Minnesota vs Colorado

Backstrom proved last year's season wasn't a fluke and he'll need to be spectular to shutdown a healthy Avalanche team.

Minnesota in 6 games.

Anaheim vs Dallas

The Ducks are the defending Stanley Cup Champions and are in the race with the aid of veterans like Selanne and Niedermayer returning for lower pay half way through the season. Richards is a great addition for the Stars but without Zubov they are without their most talented player.

Anaheim in 6 games.