Conference Finals Predictions

It's down to four teams now, and the playoffs will resume Friday with the Western Conference finals. Without further ado, let's get to it.

(1)Anaheim Ducks vs. (4) Nashville Predators

The Ducks had to hold off the Oilers to get here. None have been more important to the team's push than Ryan Getzlaf, who had often been maligned when it came to recent playoff history. Certainly, Randy Carlyle behind the bench has helped, as he was instrumental in settling the team down when they were in numerous holes, but it's been the likes of Shea Theodore and Nick Ritchie who have been stepping up when the team has needed them the most. If there is a concern, it is in goal, where things continue to be on rocky ground at times.

The Predators' path may be unprecedented, given their ranking, but having key players at full strength has been a major key to their success. It has helped that Pekka Rinne has played like the world-beater that he's capable of being while the team continues to get contributions up and down the lineup. Playing disciplined has also helped, and it figures to be key again against a physical Ducks team that can capitalize on mistakes at any time.

Prediction: Predators in 6

(2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (2) Ottawa Senators

The Penguins showed their playoff prowess by shaking off a 3-1 series lead loss to eventually close out the Washington Capitals in seven games. As has been the case in every series, it's been the unheralded players that have come up big, with Jake Guentzel and Bryan Rust playing hero in game seven. That doesn't mean the likes of Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby haven't done their part, though, as Malkin leads the team in playoff scoring while Crosby continues to be the engine of the team. Marc-Andre Fleury gives the Penguins a good problem in goal if and when Matt Murray comes back from injury.

The Senators continue to show resiliency, as they played part of the Rangers series without Erik Karlsson. He will be needed, as the Senators didn't fare so well without him. Craig Anderson has been the man in goal while Kyle Turris has become the clutch player that the Sens needed. All hands will be needed if the Sens hope to pull an upset.

Prediction: Penguins in 7