This is my analysis and breakout, if they aren't the same thing, of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. I used the info on the post before where I ranked teams in different categories.
Conference Rankings 1 through 8 - (Offense-Defense-Goaltending-Coaching-Intangible)
East
1) Capitals (3-5-6-5-3)
vs
8) Rangers (8-4-1-6-7)
Prediction: Rangers in 6
Slight edge the Rangers who boast an impressive blue line along with one of the best goaltenders in the game. The Caps have a tendency of getting shutout or scoring just one or two goals. Lundqvist could back his team and take them to the 2nd round despite their offensive talent.
2) Flyers (1-1-7-2-1)
vs
7) Sabres (5-7-5-1-8)
Prediction: Flyers in 5
If the Flyers do as expected, they should take of a much less experience first round foe. Goaltending is their only worry, but their defense in front of him should be able to keep the small Buffalo offenders away from Bobrovsky.
3) Bruins (7-3-3-4-4)
vs
6) Canadiens (4-6-4-7-6)
Prediction: Canadiens in 5
Emotions will run high in this series and I just don't see the Bruins ability to bounce back if they drop one at home. This team is riding high and will be extremely confident in the first round. But I believe Price will shut down they Bruins offense that lacks major stars.
4) Penguins (6-2-2-3-2)
vs
5) Lightning (2-8-8-8-5)
Prediction: Penguins in 7
This one should be good as the battle of offense and defense rears it head once again. I see the Pens young scorers squeezing by until they finally outlast the Lightning and their offensive powerhouse. Easily could see the Pens in an 3-1 deficit and then going winning the series.
In the West:
Vancouver over Chicago in 7.
San Jose over Los Angeles in 4.
Detroit over Phoenix in 5.
Predators over Ducks in 6.
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