Western Conference
(1) Anaheim Ducks vs. (3) Calgary Flames
The Ducks used their depth to overwhelm the Jets in the first round, and though goaltending isn't a strength still, it is more than solid at this point in the season. Secondary scoring will continue to be key for the Ducks. The Flames continue to defy logic, as they turned their youth and chemistry into a six game series win against Vancouver. Jonas Hiller was shaky in a few games during the series, however, so whether the Flames will turn to Karri Ramo at some point in the series bears watching.
Prediction: Flames in 7
(3) Chicago Blackhawks vs. (4) Minnesota Wild
The Blackhawks had enough offense to overcome their goaltending deficiencies, particularly from Corey Crawford, who starts the first game of the series. Scott Darling has played well when called upon, so it wouldn't be a surprise if he gets the nod at the first sign of trouble from Crawford. The Wild continue to ride the stellar goaltending of Devan Dubnyk, but the ride has to stop at some point, doesn't it? The Wild still show inconsistency as a team, and it will be up to the offense to step up for more than just when it's needed.
Prediction: Wild in 7
Eastern Conference
(1) New York Rangers vs. (3) Washington Capitals
The Rangers had a tough time solving the Penguins' goaltending, but thanks to great goaltending of their own, they were able to finish off the Pens in five games. Braden Holtby does not figure to be a pushover, which means the Rangers need to find offense in order to take some pressure off of Henrik Lundqvist. The Capitals had to hold off the Islanders in seven games, and while Holtby did a good job, Alex Ovechkin continues to have trouble finding the net, as two goals on 28 shots just isn't going to cut it.
Prediction: Rangers in 6
(1) Montreal Canadiens vs. (2) Tampa Bay Lightning
The Canadiens were on their way to sweeping the Senators out of the playoffs, but they let the foot off the pedal and were nearly on the wrong end of history, as they finally put them away in six games. Timely offensive contributions were key, and they will be needed again as Carey Price will once again be the wall the Canadiens need. The Lightning had trouble solving Petr Mrazek for much of the series, but were able to advance thanks to goals when they counted the most. Price is a better player than Mrazek at this point, and Tampa Bay will need Steven Stamkos to show up to take some pressure off of Tyler Johnson.
Prediction: Canadiens in 6
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