Viewpoint

well, as for the penguins I'm seeing a strong finish in 4 against Ottawa but the series isn't over yet. sharks and flames are both playing phenomenally tight but i think sharks will come out in 7. in the west sharks will come out over Dallas in 6 and in the east the pens will go on habs and it will be incredibly tight but being from Pittsburgh I'm inclined to say pens in 6 but its a toss up there. as for the cup finals I'm gonna say east will take it in 6 (whether it be pens or habs)

I think the game between Calgary and San Jose was really a contest between american officiating called on by the NHL to make things fair.
I sometimes wonder if the hockey is like boxing?
Like who does Canada think they are, taking on teams that have more big money players on one team than the 3 canadian teams combined, in the playoffs.
So let's look at the dive that Scott Thorton pulled off in the 2nd period, I thought that stuff was illegal, do you really believe the ref's did not see it, yea you know it. It would look pretty bad if the 2nd best team in the NHL went down 2 games to nothing, so as the NHL is that where you have to jump in to keep it even.
So the question is who sets this up the NHL or the owners?
Since Thorton lives so close to Hollywood maybe he should take up acting.
The refereeing is the worst I have seen for consistency, but I only been watching hockey for about 40 years, so what would I know. Our teams are made up of players from our great planet. The thing that makes a Canadian team play better, they are most always the underdog. When a Canadian team takes takes on a American team, we as underdogs have a tendancy to stick together and play with heart and grit, that is what will bring us rise above the corruption and politics of the game. GO CALGARY, GO MONTREAL, GO OTTAWA, YOU HAVE THE SUPPORT OF THE PEOPLE.

Now who will WIN??

Montreal in 5 probably in 4
Ottawa in 6
Calgary in 5 if they don't they will loose
Dallas in 5
Detroit in 5
New Jersey in 7
Colorado in 5
Philly in 5

I've seen the B's and Habs long enough to know that Mtl will win in, at most, 5. Nashville is gonna wear down Det in 7, Dallas in 4 over Anaheim (Turco's gonna steal a couple) and Philly over wash in 7. Col over Minny in 6, Calgary is going to put up a fight, but SJ in 7. Pit will beat Ott in 5, and the Devils will beat NY in 6. Conference finals: Mtl and NJD (Mtl in 5), Dallas and SJ (7 OT, pick one), Mtl will win the finals in 6, and bring the cup back home. GO HABS GO!

Two things I noticed that caught my eye:

1) Anyone saying Montreal will loose or even be taken to 7 games vs Boston really needs a wake-up call. Montreal (including game 1 of the playoffs) is 9-0 vs Montreal this season and Boston in those 9 games have held the lead for a grand total of 0 minutes played. This series is over before it starts.

2) Someone commented that Montreal doesnt have the fire-power to match the pens. That person must have missed the fact that Montreal has the #1 powerlay and leads the NHL in goals for during the regular season.

The fix is on yet again! The reffing is an absolute disgrace. The only way SJ will get a penalty is if a Flame is skewered. There is absolutely NO WAY that there would be the discrepancy in penalties without word from the very top of the league. Bettman has turned the NHL into a bush league and TRUE hockey fans will never forgive him. (anyone who has ever played hockey knows that the shootout is a cheap way to win. Hockey is a TEAM game!)

It's a shame that Calgary always has to play twice as well as the other team to have ANY chance of winning. We can only hope that Bettman quits/retires/dies soon, so that a former great league can regain it's status. Until then it will pretty much be a coin toss as to who wins THE CUP each and every year. Here's to hoping that the refs can raise their level to that of the players for the rest of the playoffs. Wishful thinking? Probably...

Anyways, Dallas-Pittsburgh in the finals.

man the montreal canadians r owning those nerds badly!!!!!!!! hope they win the stanley cup

I'll be brave. Don't count out the Senators yet. In fact don't count out any team. This is the playoff and anything could happen.

Response to Jack Masson..while I have no doubt you were at the longest overtime game.The Maroons goalie was NOT Connell..it was my grampa Lorne Chabot..he also played (and won)the second longest OT game ever(Leafs over Bruins).My family owns the puck from the longest OT game..it is currently loaned to the HHoF.The hall doesnt mind borrowing our family heirlooms(my grampa also invented the gauntlet glove still used today)..but will not enshrine my grampa even though he certainly deserves it.

Pittsburgh will not will win cuz there D blows, Gary Roberts is the dirtiest player in the game, and ryan whitney is a coward( the guy had at 10 secs to take off his helmet and fight wade redden like a man but no, he knew he wouldn't win so he left it on)

I love the crybaby Ottawa fans. You had your chance and you blew it. Now you can wait 40+ years like the Leaf fans. Detroit in winning another one, over Montreal this time.

I like most of the predictions but I couldn't help but notice how safe they are. Can the Senators really win one game this post season? I don't think so, unless they throw Emry in and he stands on his head I don't think they have a chance. Ottawa looks to be 20 individuals rather than one team. This club is walking dead and waiting to be dismantled. I fear the Penguins won't even be tested and may have a wake up call in the second round. Thanks.

"Wings get kicked out in the second round due to the lack of competition they face in the division all year"

Uh, you wanna recheck those numbers, kiddo? The Wings were mediocre at best within the Central division. Heck, they lost their series against the BHawks 6-2. The Central division has given them the best competition of the entire league.

I would like to state firstly that I am a fan of Don Cherrys and even though I don't always agree with some of his comments I respect his opinion.Last night however I must take exception with his advice to Ottawa to Run the goalie. Mr.Cherry always seems so concerned with how the youngsters that are watching perceive the pros actions .We are sure to see an increase in running the goalie in Minor hockey circles. Dumb advice you should remember you influence a younger generation of hockey players like my son (A GOALIE)

MONTREAL IN 5
PENS IN 4
RANGERS IN 6
PHILLY IN 6

PREDS IN 7
CALGARY IN 6
DUCKS IN 5
WILD IN 5

MONTREAL & DUCKS CUP FINIAL MONTREAL IN 5

j from ottawa your comments disgust me. The mighty Pittsburgh Penguins will blow 'your' Sens apart. You probably watched the first game that the Pens obviously dominated the whole 60 mins. And they will continue doing it through out the next 3 games.

ps. don't insult our Great Fearless Captain Crosby again.

I think Scott you might be wrong. It may take a few games, but Minny will adjust to the way the Avs play, and then it's only a matter of time before they dominate. Minny may not have the greatest skilled athletes, or the best stick handlers or goal scorers, but they have a huge heart, and have proven time and time again that they can and will go far. I wouldn't be surprised if they make it to the finals. But with out Nick Schultz, it could hurt them. Backstrom is a decent goalie, but can no way in any shape or form compare to the combination of Fernandez/ Rolo. But still, to see the wild comeback from being down 2-0 on Wednesday night, proves that their is plenty of room left for Minny to clench a second round position. I also love Colorado, but I feel that the Avs are now washed up. Sure Sakic, Foresberg, Statsny and the other young'uns are proven their worth, this year isn't going to be theirs. Montréal is still going off on a hot streak. I wouldn't be surprised for a clean sweep in that seris with Boston, not only is the Habs on fire, but every player poses a threat to score. Their scoring is so well spread out that it is going to confuse their opponents. And if Koivu happens to rturn (Miraculously) their chances for success have greatly increased. Wild and Montréal for the cup. Wild game 7.

i think the sens will be out quick montreal is going to div finals with wahington detroit will beat calgary and ana will beat dallas and itsw going to be a dog fight with mini and colarado

What ever happened to the NHL playoff hockey screen saver that you used to be able to download. That was the greatest way to follow each of the teams.

What's up with Kelly Hrudey being so hard on the Flames. He pretty much said that they played a poor game and got lucky to win game one and have no chance the rest of the series.
I'm a big Hrudey fan because he usually has a neutral view on the game but you could tell last night where his heart is...his former team!

Was at the igloo last night. Just curious...how many of you that picked Ottawa would back up that prediction this morning!?!

the Penguins will win the series in 5,If not 4! Anyone who gives the Sens a chance is crazy! Come on people! I know everybody hates Crosby, but come on. I'm damn sure if Crosby was on your team, you would love him. Stop the madness!

Alex from Pickering, Montreal in 3? When did they change the playoff format? Even being a Boston fan, as much as I would like to see the Bruins win, I'm a realist. I think it'll be Montreal in 6. To all the Ottawa believers, they're done for. Pittsburgh learned alot after lst years early exit and they'll be tough this year. Also, The injuries to Ottawa have shown them to be a one-dimensional team and Pittsburgh has too much depth this year. Ottawa has no chance of winning. As for Calgary, I wouldn't count them out. True, San Jose was really strong but the playoffs are a whole different ball of wax and I think Calgary could have a serious shot at taking them out. I can't see the Ducks going the whole way. The real dark horse is Washington. They've had such momentum going, they could seriously take it far into the playoffs. I can't see Philly beating them in the first round.

The West is tough to call, but I think the East final will be Pittsburgh/Montreal. I'd like to say Montreal but I believe Pittsburgh can take them out. In the West, I'll say Detroit/ San Jose with Detroit winning in 7. I also believe the cup is coming back east, either to Montreal or Pittsburgh.

Anyone who believes that that the Sens will upset the Pens need to wake up and smell the coffee. Pens will take it in 4.

Habs in 5
Flyers in 6
NYR in 6

Wings in 5
AVS in 7
Ducks in 6
Flames in 7

Pens all the way!!!!! Cup #3 in 2008
GO PENS GO!!!!!!!

Colorado will prevail over the Wild.

My Predictions
Montreal over Boston(4)
Washington over Phili (6)
Pitts over Sens (4)
NYR over NJD (5)

Col over Wild(in 6)
SJS over Calgary (in 7)
Detroit over Nashville (in 4)
Anahiem over Dallas (in 7)

I will stick with the Ducks to repeat.They have Selanne back and in shape along with Niedermayer.They are big and strong and will be ready to roll again.Just like the Islander teams of the 80s they don't waste time and energy in the regular season but crank it up come April.I will also take the Penguins in the East.Montreal will be K.O'd in round two and exposed for the tiny team they are.I can't imagine the Habs beating any of the remaining teams after the quarter final(Penguins,Rangers or Devils,or the Caps)

Rounnd 1 East:Montreal in 5,Penguins in 5,Caitals in 6,New Jersey in 6

West:Detroit in 5,San Jose in 6,Colorado in 6,Anaheim in 5

Ottawa is lacking confidence. If they keep playing the way they do, Pittsburgh will have no problem sweeping this series. (which I'd love to see).

I was very disappointed in our American counterparts. I was watching the opening of the Sharks-Flames game and when O'Canada was being sung....people booed. Such a lack of ignorance and disrespect in that kind of behavior, i really wish it would stop. And im very disappointed when our Canadian bretheren do it as well when the American anthem is sung as well.

The best matchup right now has to be the Calgary Flames and San Jose Sharks. For some reason everyone seems to have picked the San Jose Sharks to win the cup despite the fact that they face the toughest defence in the leauge. Joe Thornton's going to have to do a lot more than be a set up man as he will have continuous pressure down low and will be playing against a fearless competitor, in Iginla. Jerome's posted MVP like numbers this year and with the addition of Curtis Joesph no one can question the Flames recent goltending troubles. The Calgary Flames have all the right peices to make an 08 cup run they just need to score early and kill penalties appropriatley.

Thank you CBC for again bringing us the playoffs. But tremendous thanks for indicating as of tonight that Donald S will not be on tomorrow's Boston-Montreal game. This man who dresses for Halloween would rather choke than say anything positive about Montreal. I look forward to tomorrow's Cherryless game.

Wow Scott! For a guy who claimed the picks were fearless, you sure picked a lot of favourites... 7 in fact, with the one exception being a 5 over a 4!

I don't think I'd pick that many more, but Colorado will beat Minnesota, and Ottawa will give Pittsburgh a scare before ultimately bowing out in 6 or 7

As for a finals... I gotta join the consensus and say Habs/Sharks... I'd like to think the Habs win, but I think it may end up being 4 straight years of Cdn Bridesmaids

I can't belive people saying Boston will win over the Habs, they are just too strong for Boston.Most goals scored, 1rst in powerplay and one very good rookie goalie.Habs in 5 and they will beat the Pens in 7 in conf. finals

Mtl in 5 mtl in 6 NYR in 7
Pit in 5 nyr in 7
NYR in 5
Phil in 7 col in 6

Det in 5 col in 7 col in 7
SJ in 7 ana in 6
Ana in 5
Col in 7

There is ALWAYS one upset in the first round.

Ottawa might surprise everybody.

These are not your older brother's Devils, they don't have the weapons they had in the past. Outside of Marty, they don't have much, Elias and Madden have been underachieving. The offense is not there, and the defense is great but can be exploited if Drury, Jagr, Gomez, and Shanny start playing the game they're capable of playing. If they don't pick it up, look for Nigel Dawes, Brandon Dubinsky, and Michal Rozsival to pick up the slack. Not to mention Lundqvist will equalize Brodour.

As for home ice advantage, half the fans in Newark will be Ranger fans.

Blueshirts in 6

I grew up in Ottawa and was and still is a die hard Habs fan. When Ottawa entered the league they became my #2 Fav. BUT ! I have never seen a team that is so useless without one player. No Alfie no win. a good high school team could take out the Sens. Last year the game they did win and the game they should have won overthe Ducks was Alfie. Did heatly even play ??????

I am wondering if people from Ottawa are on crack? That team would not have even made the playoffs in the west. Ottawa is out in 4 or 5.
A calgary Vs Ottawa series would be calgary in 6. The only team I see Ottawa beating the west is the preds that is how bad that team is, they are horrible.

As for Calgary it will be a seven game series and Thorton will not show up again in the playoffs which is great for calgary. Calgary can score more goals than the sharks so I think like Cherry said it will be the series of the playoffs; my head says sharks in 7 but i still say the flames in 7...

I grew up in Ottawa and was and still is a die hard Habs fan. When Ottawa entered the league they became my #2 Fav. BUT ! I have never seen a team that is so useless without one player. No Alfie no win. a good high school team could take out the Sens. Last year the game they did win and the game they should have won overthe Ducks was Alfie. Did heatly even play ??????

While I am the first to admit that the Sharks are an excellent team in many regards, I'm not ready to completely count out the Flames.
If the Flames can pull it together and keep it together and play physically, there should be no reason for a first round elimination.
Remember, these past few seasons have been dominated by teams that initially appeared to have a zero chance of making the final round (Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa), so lets not be so quick to judge.
Keep in mind, being higher in the standings does not mean that you've got a ticket out of first round either. First rate teams can crash and burn quite spectacularly as well.
Go Flames Go!

whoever wins the Calgary / SJ series...

takes the cup after a 7 game war with the ducks.

the east is weak.

seeing Joe or Jarome hoist the mug would be a treat.

can't wait until 10pm.

Emery? Gerber? Ottawa expects to win something with this pair? They'd be better off with Harry Dunne and Lloyd Christmas.

Hey J from Ottawa, news flash; "the Pens wanted to play Ottawa." Right now your Senators are playing like a Junior C team. Save some criticism for the Sens, in 4 or 5 games they'll be joining the leafs on the golf course. The only difference is Leaf fans never really expected much!! Also if you want to look at whiners check out your Captain or Coach.

Sens have the edge, they have experience and are proven Cup contenders, we( the Pens)better be ready from the drop of the puck if we´re going to have a chance to advance. One of the biggest concerns for the Pens is faceoffs, worst in the league and something that can make or break a series I´m sure. Sid and Hossa must find chemistry fast...Malkin needs to stay hot...Staal, Talbot and Roberts must excel...but most important of all is Fleury who needs to play like we all know he can...Pens in 6...go Pens!!!

The parity in both conferences this year breaks down predictions to a simply coin flip on each match up. Any team including the coaches that can bring it's game to the next level and make the fewest mental mistakes from game to game has a chance to go all the way. From a purely emotional level I think the Flames will meet Montreal in the final and it's a coin flip. Anyways looking forward to some very good hockey. Can't wait.

I’m from Montréal so I go for the Habs. I’m one of the rares ones who had them in the playoffs at the beginning of the season (…7th, not 1st… but still) I think we’ll have an all Canadian semi-final with Montreal beating the Bruins and the Devils, and the Sens beating Pittsburgh and Washington. Yes the same Senators who knocked the Penguins last year and all season long. The West are going to be tough to beat but I’m not sure about the Dicks and the Sharks. I see the “old” Red Wings cruising to the final. An original 6 Montreal-Detroit final? Why not?!

You've got to be kidding, Flames are hot, I don't think so. Five Games, Go San Jose....

People seem to misinterpret the word fearless. It doesn't mean make bad predictions, fellas. Morrison seems pretty on the ball here.

I would argue that Calgary has a better chance than the one would think, but their series will be determined after 3 games. If Calgary are down 2-1 or 3-0 after that, they're out.

Also, while I do like to laud Canadian teams, no one but Montreal have even a snuff of a chance to go anywhere. Tanner in Ottawa, sorry but you seem to be forgetting that Alfredsson and Fischer are out due to injury. Those two are their top playoff performers. Include this with the fact the Sens's goaltending has been dismal all season and their overall lack of chemistry, AND the fact that the Pens have secondary and tertiary scoring depth AND the fact that the Pens have way more momentum in this series than last year, this all points towards a Pens win. I know, it's hard to take in. Just breathe deep and think of next year.

You have to expect upsets in the first round to be at 50%. They may be hard to predict this year, but look for Calgary, Dallas, Philadelphia, and possibly Ottawa to pull it off.

I think the Flames vs Sharks will go for 7 games. I do believe this will be a tough series. Iam not sure who will win it, But I do hope it will be the flames

The Pens may be driving a Kenworth, but the Habs are drving a TANK !!!!

Carey "The Ice" Price is so cool under pressure, the more pressure the better he plays. He don't even crack a sweat.

Montreal needs to bring the System they played all year into the playoffs and NO ONE WILL BEAT THEM. Certainly not "Cry Baby Sid"

GO HABS GO.

First off, Detroit is going to be the upset of the first round. I believe they have the skill, but are missing the one thing that Canadian players bring to the table and that is heart. Injuries to a couple Canadians (Draper/Maltby) is going to hurt this team alot, and goaltending could be a question mark as well. The rest of the West should be Ducks, Sharks, and I will take the Avs over Wild due to the Wilds injuries on Defence and Forsberg is just hitting his stride.
In the East, Montreal should walk on Boston(how did this team ever get to the playoffs????), Washington will have a much easier time than people think with Philly, Rangers in a walk over Devils( have to score at least one goal to win , can the Devils score)and last but not least I think that Ottawa and the Penguins go at least 6 games with Pittsburg winning. One question, what the heck is bryan Murray thinking by sitting Emery for all this time. Here is a goalie that took the Sens to the Finals last year and now he has been on the bench for 20+ games and are going to go with a guy who has minimal playoff experience. Why the fans are letting this go on bewilders me, would Anaheim sit Giguere after going to the Cup finals and winning it, not a chance. This is why Burke is considered the MAN while Murray is ruining what I believe could be the best Ottawa team since they came into the league. Just my thoughts, what do you think.

Those aren't fearless predictions - they are predictable predictions.
I pick the Bruins and Sens for big upsets!

As far fetched as it might seem, Ottawa may surpirse many a people. Even the press in Pitts is giving Ottawa the edge. They see Ottawa's defence as a trouble spot for the Pens. If Ottawa can get their act together they can keep baby face of his game and he can cry like a baby. Alos, Ottawa did a good job keeping the Pens away from the net and if they can stop the Pens at the line it will greatly improve chances to get through this round.

Montreal is the greatest hockey team in the history of the game. How can anyone sane that is argue with 24 Cups. They face the English/French BS by the CBC when it comes to their games being televised over the leafs, Losers since 67 I might ad and the Referees are bias especially when they play the Leafs. Ever notice who gets all the 5 on 3's. Everyone except a true Canadiens fan believed they could go this far this year. All the so called experts predicated that they wouldn't even make the playoffs this year.They may not make it to the cup this year but watch out for this team for many more years to come. They have an excellent young and exciting team. Ole Ole Ole Ole Ole will be Boston's and Tim Thomas's favourite song for the next 4 games.

you guys have a short memory , when was the last time that the Favorite team actualy did something,, you guys quickly forgot the Oilers 2 years ago .

Montreal in 5 or 6
Pittsburgh in 5 or 6
Philadelphia in 7
NYRangers in 6

Detroit in 5
San Jose in 7
Minnesota in 6
Dallas in 7

Pittsburgh losing to Detroit in the Finals

No upsets in the first round, I have to strongly disagree with these predictions. The new season starts tonight and I am betting on 4 of 8 series going to a game 7 this year as there are some very even match-ups. Upsets are very likely in the following series:

Ottawa, Philly, Nashville, Colorado (not really an upset and believe it or not, Calgary. Don't believe all the hype you are hearing from so-called experts about the Sharks! Calgary did the bare minimum this year to get into the playoffs and they have saved their best for the 2nd season. I see a long run coming for the Flames.

The Bruins are going to push Montreal deep in that series with the Habs winning in 7 games and Nashville is going to shock Detroit in 5 games!!

I am a huge Pens fan but I am scared of Ott beat us in 5 last year and made me question my faith but we are a different team this year. Malkin is not as tired do to getting used to the long nhl schedual, Crosby is back healthy and will want to make himself noticed after missing the second half, Hossa will want to look good so next year teams will bid high for his contract and our goaltending has really improved once Fluery realized he could be replaced. Watch out for Pittsburgh Beaten Ottawa in 6 and goin to the cup finals against SJ and that will go to 7 with the Pens winning thier 3rd cup. Cause if they dont now when will they?

I can't believe the people who think you can fix a team sport. There is no way you can ask 20 players to throw a game. I think Tom in particular should stick to watching soaps and wrestling (like there is a difference). The soap and wrestling world is the only place where this could happen.

Red Wings 5
Sharks 6
Avalanche 6
Ducks 7

Canadiens 6
Penguins 6
Capitals 7
New York 7

Cup final...one of two...either Detroit/Montreal or San Jose/Montreal...

either way, it's time for another rookie goalie to bring the cup back to the Habs.

I'm sorry but after reading all your comments not a single one of you is giving Detroit the respect it deserves, Calgary will knock out the sharks, but expect Detroit Pittsburg or Det montreal in finals.

Should be fun to watch either way.

By the way in two months you can look back and say wow that guys from whitehorse was right!

Let the real season begin. It's not about money anymore, the playoffs are about pride for the first 3 rounds anyway. Nobody get paid as one may think, they only get paid for the regular season not the post-season. So now its about who wants the cup more? Finally some meaning to the sport and find out the real deal from the pretenders.

As a Montrealer, I want the Habs to win. I'm really hoping though that we don't have hoodlums (who aren't real hockey fans) out on the streets again causing riots and vandalism should they win the cup. 1986 and 1993 were a real embarrassment as far as street celebrations go. That's not in the spirit of the game, never was. The mayor of Montreal had better issue a stern warning this time around, and the cops better be out in force and beat the crap out of the troublemakers. Hockey is fun and entertaining, and we should rejoice in civilized celebration.

Let the real season begin. It's not about money anymore, the playoffs are about pride for the first 3 rounds anyway. Nobody get paid as one may think, they only get paid for the regular season not the post-season. So now its about who wants the cup more? Finally some meaning to the sport and find out the real deal from the pretenders.

Fearless first round predictions? Tell me what is so fearless about picking the favourite in every series but one (rangers-devils). A better title would be 'Predictable first rounds predictions.' C'mon Scott, get off the bandwagon and live a little.

Nobody is calling any sweeps? What's the deal? I'm going to call it now...
Habs over Bruins in 4 (Good luck Bruins, with your 0 wins against the Habs in the regular season)
Pens over Sens in 4 (Payback time for Crosby and the Pens, Malkin will be huge in this one)
Caps over Flyers in 5 (Ovechkin will just keep adding to that point total)
Devils over Rangers in 7 + some OT (This series will be all about the guys in the cage, If Jagr can step up, the Rangers have a chance)

Wings over Preds in 5 (Wings get kicked out in the second round due to the lack of competition they face in the division all year)
Sharks over the Flames in 6 (Flames will put up a good fight, It wont be enough)
Avs over Wild in 6
Ducks over the Stars in 7 (WTF Dallas? They were like the Caps of the West there for a little while until they flamed out towards the end of the season, If they would have finished strong... I would put them in the cup finals)

Finals... Pens over the Sharks It will take 7 Games + some OT to put either one of these teams down for good in the finals.

I would probably pick Colorado to beat Minnesota in 6 if I were to pick any upset in these playoffs. I think most of the first round series will go by seeds.

The second round will be a little different though I think, with the Capitals making it all the way to the Stanley Cup final. They were great under pressure in the last stretch of the season, and I think they will continue that trend in the playoffs. Plus, with a leader like Ovechkin, how can they lose? Well, they can lose when they face the Red Wings in the finals. The Red Wings did struggle at the start of the second half of the season, but they got things back together at the end.

Red Wings going all the way of the Capitals in 7.

Come on Sens fans, they got by the Pens last year cause Sid had a broken foot, the Pens are more talented and more experianced this year and the Sens have looked like a tired team since Jan. Pens in 6 and to the finals against the Sharks. CBC probably picked the Pats to win the SuperBowl too, try showing some guts on a upset or two!

The Sens have beaten Pittsburg 3 of 4 this year and the other went to overtime. None of these wins were even during their 15-2 start, so they certainly handle them now. Sens also have a lot more playoff experience. We'll certainly miss Alfie, but Fisher hasn't done much all year anyway. Looking for Vermette to keep up his strong play over the past few weeks.

Sens in 6.

Ok. Yes I Agree the Sharks had a great run since February but this is pretty much a new season. All the teams are at 0-0. Players come out in the playoffs who you didnt see alot from in the regular season. So here are my picks:

(1) Montreal vs. (8) Boston: Montreal (6).
(2) Pittsburgh vs. (7) Ottawa: Pittsburgh (6).
(3) Washington vs. (6) Philadelphia: Washinton (5).
(4) New Jersey vs. (5) New York Rangers: New Jersey (6).

(1) Detroit vs. (8) Nashville: Nashville (7).
(2) San Jose vs. (7) Calgary: Calgary (6).
(3) Minnesota vs. (6) Colorado (6).
(4) Anaheim vs. (5) Dallas: Dallas (7).

I have a true distaste for the sens, and their flip flop fans who are already bailing on their team and prepping their canoes for the canal, but i still think Ottawa will change Malkin & Sid the kid's diapers in round 1. They will win, even if Murray has to get between the pipes himself.

Predictions:

-Canadiens in 6 (But I'm a Bruins fan and would love an upset. Just don't see it happening)

-Devils in 5 (I have no idea where everyone thinks that the Devils can't beat the Rangers. The Rangers barely deserve to be in the playoffs)

-Ottawa in 6 (The Penguins will win the first game, then get shelled in the next 3 before returning to Ottawa to lose, and wonder how they did, in game 6). How quickly people forget how good Ottawa can really be. Come on everybody, you're acting like the Penguins are the 80's Oilers!

-Philadelphia in 6 (Couldn't care less about this series though. I really hate Philly but I think they'll be rough enough to get under the Capitals' skin)

-Detroit in 4 (Sorry Nashville. I like the upset but this year Detroit isn't going out first round)

-San Jose in 6 (I really hope I'm wrong on this one. I'd like to see the flames win but the Sharks are one hell of a team)

-Colorado in 7 (A really tough series but I believe that the grit and veteran leadership pulls it out for Colorado)

-Dallas in 6 (I just don't think Anaheim is the team they were last year. I really can't stand Dallas though, which is why they're going to win)

Stanley Cup

Ottawa over San Jose in 6
Yes I do know how stupid this pick sounds. Just think Ottawa is about to find their legs in the playoffs again and San Jose is simply good.

Montreal in 6
Ottawa in 7
Washington in 5
New Jersey in 7
Nashville in 7
Calgary in 7
Minnisota in 7
Anaheim in 7
The Habs win the cup against the Ducks in 7

reply to Joey from Ottawa;
Ottawa does have skill, but since Alfredsson is gone, 40% of their skills are gone. He was essential to Ottawa, almost one of their key players, plus who feels like playing alongside with Ray Emery? I wouldn't.
The sens hurt themselves because they failed to trade him or put him on the waivers, and now they're suffering. SOmbody please help this once upon a time killer team.

Every year the higher seeds seem a lock. And every year we see multiple surprises. In 2006, seeds 5 6 7 8 proceeded after the first round in the west.
This year will not be different, higher seeds will fall: this is hockey not basketball and that's why we all watch it.

SABU, I'm a Sens fan -- but your comment made me laugh out loud. Nicely done.

I would like to see my Sens be a roadblock, though... and I think if they relax, they can do it. They've got the talent and they've got the experience. It'll be hard without Alfie, Fisher and Kelly, but if they get a bit of momentum they'll be a contender. Sens in 7, maybe 6 if they win tonight. Then with those three back, we're on the road again.

Calgary has been running hot and cold, but I think they're in for a hot spell -- Flames in 6. They might need a bit of luck, but I've got faith in Iginla.

And Brodeur is going to steal the NJ-NY series. NJ may not be an exciting team, but they're tough and determined, and they work really hard. NJ in 6.

Habs in 5 -- they'll win the first two, Boston will stage a comeback and get a rare win, and then it's back to business as usual.

Don't really follow the other teams so much, so I'm not even really going to bother -- it'd be even more like throwing darts at the wall backwards and blindfolded than the above, where I'm only blindfolded...

Don't count the Senator's out just yet. I know, I know the last half the the season was dreadfull but really if they can get it together WATCH OUT and what if the Bruins win?
Look folks this is a whole new season its anyone's game when it come to the playoffs
Remember the Oilers run?
Keep the faith Sens fans
GO SENS GO

This years playoffs have some great 1st round match ups. Rangers ,Devils is a very tough call. The west I think will be sharks territory this year.Im the east I am going with the Habs. They have jelled into a fine team this year. Very fast and hard to control when they are on their game. Price will be a wall and cool and collected as usual.Looking forward to the puck dropping tonight here on CBC

Habs VS Bruins
Prediction: Habs (In 6 games)
Habs don't have to focus on one scorer. Everyone on the team is spread out nicely. Without Koivu, this will force the habs to play harder. Youth is a factor.

Pens Vs Sens
Prediction: Pens (In 5 games)
Emery's issues are still taking a toll and Fisher and Alfredesson's injuries are going to wash them up. Sid will come on top.
Philly Vs Caps
Prediction: Philly (In 7 games)
This is a weird matchup, but Philly will have the upper hand.
NJ Vs NY
Prediction: NJ (In 4 games)
This is all going to come down to Brodeur. He looked hot all season, lets hope the pressure helps.
Wings Vs Preds
Prediction: Preds (In 7 games, final being shoot out win)
Detroit will flop, as always.
Sharks Vs Flames
Prediction: Sharks (In 4 games)
Sharks are way to oragnized. Flames will struggle very badly.
Wild Vs Avs
Prediction: Wild (In 7 games)
Even matchup, but Wild have something that the VAs lack, D.
Ducks Vs Stars
Prediction: Ducks (In 7 games)
Another even match. Selanne should come out on top.

I don´t care who wins. I´m just glad that the playoffs have started and the regular season is over. I usually have trouble watching a complete game on tv after Don and Ron, as it can get pretty boring. I was on the Habs bandwagon with the great teams of the late seventies and always hope for the Canadian teams, as most Americans could care less who wins. Saw the Devils beat the Leafs 4-1 this year, which was my firstlive game since 1961, when I saw the Leafs and Hawks from the standing room section for two bucks.
The skill level of the game this year was amazing but the atmostpere reminded me of a tennis match with the occasional gasp at a close call. Is there prozac in the beer?
Playoffs live must be great.

Two shadow teams in this years playoffs are Pens and Flames...sorry Calgary but there really is no basis to believe anymore than there is in Pitt. These teams are more myth right now than real threat and no one really cared about them in the regular season other than the analyst and their constant need to create hype as it sells advertising. The fact that Crosby was out for such an extended period of time actually seems to have given them a free ride...teams didn't show up to play them, and no it wasn't that they were so good as to neutralize their opponents. The Flames are to be extinguished as a result of theri playing style that doesn't favour goals...you know those things that seem to matter when the game ends.

Look for teams with fewer goals against to win the cup. That would include Detroit, New York, New Jersey, Anaheim, and San Jose. Since Detroit also has a outstanding offense, I look for them to face Rangers in the final. Detroit wins final in six. Now you can all rest easy and enjoy your beer!!

The Habs are out in 5!!! Come June,Pittsburgh or San Jose will be drinking from the holy grail.

Simply put. Ottawa has to split in Pittsburg. If they do, then its a long series and anything can happen. If not, then they will fight the leafs for tee times.

The last 3 years a canadian team made it to the finals, I think this is enough to prove anyone can make the stanley cup as long as they bring it hard. But with that said I predict:

Habs in 5 (A hungry team)
Pens in 5 (What a lineup!!)
Caps in 6 (Watch these guys)
Rangers in 7

Wings in 4
Sharks in 7
Avs in 7
Dallas in 7 (under-estimated big time)

If there is a big upset (which is expected these days), watch for Philly, Boston, Calgary or even Ottawa.

But I'd really love to see a Habs vs Caps and Wings vs Sharks Final 4.

Can hardly wait for the games to begin, I am expecting to see some great hockey in the first round.

I am predicting San Jose - Montreal final, pick-one.

As far as Av's and Flames, AV's are too long in the tooth, Flames not enough team dicipline to go all the way.

Predictions are fun,but pointless. Let's hope for surprises. I do want to challenge Scott on his asserion that the Pens didn't throw their last game. I only saw the 3rd period,but there were enough "accidental" giveaways,whiffed shots,token body checks and missed nets to look very suspicious. The most obvious was a Pens power play in which a shooter to the right of Biron was all alone looking at an open net and hesitated until Biron got into position,then shot it into his glove. The Penguins wanted to play Ottawa,period.

i think the habs are going to lose in 1st round. yeah they beat the bruins over and over, but if they had split that season series, those two teams would be switching spots in the standings. That tells me the bruins aren't as bad as this guy up top suggests. Bruins outplayed the Canadiens in the last two games, they just couldn't out play Kovalev & Price. Playoff hockey is all about shutting down a couple of key problems... Julien can figure this puzzle out. Bruins in 6 at home!

There is seemingly some suggestion that the Pens tanked their final game so they could play Ottawa in the first round. But that makes no sense. Win or lose that final game, the Pens would have played Ottawa. They knew that going in. The *only* thing on the line was the Conference championship, which the Pens did not secure because they did not win.

Flames vs Montreal in finals
Flames win in 7 games
Either way, cup's coming back up North

As much as i'm looking forward to my Habs making a run for their 25th Stanely Cup, I gotta say that I am very much interested in seeing how Ottawa does in their series vs. the Penguins. Game #1 should be a real indicator: 1)Does the team come out like gang-busters and give the Pens a REAL "run for their money" or 2)Does Gerber "flop" in front of his team?? If the latter occurs I would'nt be surprised to see Murray "throw the dice" and take a gamble by throwing Emery back between the pipes. Heck, he has nothing to lose at this point considering how their season has gone. They say that backing a wounded animal into a corner is a very dangerous thing!!! GO HABS GO!!!!

Sens are limping into playoffs...while the pens are as healthy as they have been all year. Im not sure how any one can feel confident how ottawa finished the year. Brian murray is a joke and so is theirien...but the pens and their defense are way better than last year. Gerber...2.72 ga..thats all that needs to be said.

It will be a repeat of 1989.

Flames vs Habs in the Final and the Flames will win it again.

Jay West said
"Don't be surprised if Montreal doesn't make it out of the 1st round."

I'm a habs fan but I'm also extremely skeptical and realistic when I consider my team's chances. I'm not one of those fans who thinks this team can and will win the cup each season(although I always hope). Over the past few years I never deluded myself about Montreal's chances. I mention this to preface my comment on the comment above: I WILL be surprised. Definitely. How could anyone 'not be surprised' if the habs don't win the first round. I think you just picked a random saying to preface your prediction that Boston will win. I think 'don't be surprised' wasn't the best choice since the whole world (apart from diehard Boston fans) WILL be surprised if the Bruins take this one.

This season Montreal has what few other teams in the NHL have: a deep, balanced set of lines that can score and protect a lead. I've also read a lot of comments from people saying that picking the top teams is fearless. For some (Montreal, Pittsburgh, Detroit, SJ) I disagree. Those teams got where they did for a reason. They didn't end up conference leaders based on pure luck. All four are going to carry that steam into the post-season. The rest will depend on endurance and injuries.

I agree with most of the predictions,except with two of the series.
I believe that Calgary will win in six and that Colorado and the old guys will pull it out in seven over Minni.
But then again what do I know I am a Canucks and Leafs fan.

Anyone who's predicting Boston in the first round should look again. The Habs are way too good for them. Again.

Go Jets.

Colorado, will win, New York will win. Ottawa will lose, Calgary will lose....and BOSTON IS GONNA GET SMOKED BUDDY!

calgary will enbaris th sharks in 5 games but will run into trouble aginst the ducks who will win the cup against ottowa again.

The Montreal Canadiens will realize their manifest destiny and annihilate the Calgary Flames in four straight games to wreak their vengeance for 1989 and extend their momentum from 1986 to easily win the rubber match! Carey Price will continue the legacy of Ken Dryden and Patrick Roy and achieve four consecutive shutouts. Kovalev will bank the disc off the crossbar over Kiprissov' shoulder and into the mesh in the first overtime period of the fourth game to seal the deal. You can take that to the bank!

Love, HOLGER

Red Wings over Canadiens in 5 - hoist the cup at the Joe.

I agree with most of these predictions
with a few exceptions

i think Montreal is going to sweep
Yeah, the bruins pushed hard in the last game vs the Canadiens,but given the amount of effort Montreal put into just for 1st place, shows they will battle harder than ever

also, i think Colorado has a very legitimate chance of knocking out the wild
more depth in their line-up and judging by their shootout win

Montreal vs Detroit for the final

Why is nobody considering San Jose over Montreal in the final? The last three years a team from the south (ie. no snow) has beaten a Canadian team in the finals.
Next year: Phoenix over Toronto
Year after: Atlanta over Vancouver

I'd have to not agree with people on saying the pens are going to the final, they may have the depth/talent in their line-up but, fleury taking them to the final is a ridiculous notion and yes I will eat these very words if he does, but, I am for sure highly doubting this one.

1. I really hope the Habs come out strong, but I can see the Bruins take 2 from Montreal. Habs in 6.
2. Sens and Pens should have been a good match-up, but Ottawa is way too fragile right now and they waited too long to sort out this problem. Pens in 5
3. Washington has all the momentum going into this one. I don't think the Flyers a prepared for what's coming. Caps in 5
4. Rangers had the Devil's number all year (lost only the last one - in a shootout). Rangers in 6 (at home).
5. Red Wings are very good and skilled. Too much for the eighth place team. Wings in 4.
6. Calgary has a good team, but I think San Jose is this year's Western representative. Sharks in 6.
7. Colorado, if smart and get consistent goaltending can spoil Minnesota's party. Avs in 6
8. Dallas, an excellent team, picked a bad time of year to crumble - and now they're facing the defending champs. Ducks in 7

Best of luck to the 3 canadian teams

Sharks vs Capitals in 7
!!GUARANTEE!!

Could it be possible? I dream of Montreal vs Detroit in the final. Please Detroit, don't tank this year.
Being a Montreal fan this year has been very very good, but the possibility of an original six final, and with me and my buddy lined up for one of the games in Montreal (from Alberta) As Ted Knight said in Caddyshack... Oh Billy Billy Billy, Pleeease Billy Billy Billy.

The Calgary Flames are a force to be reckoned with. Ever since that loss to Tampa Bay way back when in the final, they've been pushing for another chance. They will defeat San Jose in 6 games, and most likely go on to play detroit and then the ducks or colorado in the conference final. For the real final I'd love to see them play montreal but who knows whats going to happen in the east.

Survivor:I was at the longest playoff game in history.Forum, Mtl.26th march.1936.arrived at forum at 8.00 a.m. .50 cents rush end. I was 12 1/2 yrs. old. had brought sandwitches. purchased all local papers,Gazette, star,standard,lapresse. was there with a school friend.game started at 8.30 p.m. ended about 2.30 a.m.steet cars waiting outside.Bruneteau scored. Normie Smith was nets for Detroit. ,Alex.Connell for maroons.
Barry,Aurie and Lewis was big Detrois line

Detroit vs. Anaheim
Pittsburgh vs. N.Y. Rangers

Ducks will repeat.

Bruins will wine in 6 games. Montreal will win games 2 and 5. Bruins will win Games 1,3,4, and 6. Patrice will score 7 goals with 4 assists.

Flames are continually written off. I wouldn't be so quick. Everything in the CGY SJ series depends on the Flames and how they perform. Should they play desperate hockey and fire on all cylinders they could win the series, however if they fall flat, the Sharks will make quick work of them.

If Calgary can get a split in San Jose they will win the series in 6

Ok wings are gonna be in the finals..but i must say looking at the east many pple are counting out Ottawa...dont!!..they are a sleeping giant..and after their run last year and early hot start..they took the second half of the season off..and they might turn it up a notch tom night

I think Scott's pretty much on, but I think the Flames are the dark horse. Inconsistent alright, but there's more raw talent than what took them to the finals in 2004. Colorado is also dangerous - they have (mostly healthy now) talent and heart on their roster. And if there's a God he/she will ensure Ryan Smyth gets a Stanley Cup ring.

Ottawa is toast - they're simply too shaky. However, if they DO make it out of round 1 and then get Alfredsson and their confidence back then watch out.

Despite what I've written above, my gut tells me it's a Anaheim-Montreal final where the Habs will keep their cup-a-decade streak going.

Pretty close, I'm going with Dallas and New Jersey, however. Final round, Pittsburg and San José with the Sharks taking it in 7. This is going to be a longgggg playoffs; most of the series will go 6 or 7 games and the fittest teams will advance. Goaltenders will steal about half the games, which is just about right for the playoffs. My prediction is that the Leafs will make the playoffs next year. Go Leafs Go!!

Sorry Sens fans, but they played hockey for a quarter of the year and deserve to be in seventh place. Don't look for miracles. Hate Crosby, but Pens in six. This is the year of for the Habs. Go Habs Go!

I must be missing something. SJS are without their two most experienced defense men in Rivet and McLaren. Although these two are not rocket scientists among defensemen they are the top rearguards for this club. There is a reason defensemen require a 25% higher IQ than the nomind glory hogging forward. I can think of no club that ever won a cup without a top tightly knit group of rearguards. Flame on.

The Caps emptied the gas tank just trying to make the playoffs. Flyers win game 1 and take it in 6!

Pitts in 5 Sens terrible sorry sens fans but i'm a pens fan the pens have the better team.

Stanley final Pens and Sharks Pens in 6

sorry sharks but Hossa, Crosby, Malkin, and Fleury are to good for any opposition

I feel the Northwest was the toughest division this year..and the Wild ranked tops in it..so I'd say they will clear house in the west and east.

If The team of overpaid players (Ottawa) win against Pittsburg, I will walk on the Ottawa river.

cup final first pick rangers and ducks. second pick pittsburgh and san jose.

Hey ...where are the Leafs ... the way we had to watch them (and only them) all year you would think they were the best thing in hockey. Great that we had to watch those losers play the Habs when we could have been watching the Capitals!!!

I am the only Calgary Flames fan in Eskasoni, NS and I think that Kipper will get his game back like the 2004 run. Go Flames Go!!

Here are my more risky predictions (as this is supposed to be fun and not some sort of serious hockey business):

Sens in 6 - they will wake up; Gerber too!
Habs in 5 - what a team
Devils in 6 - the 'gers still know how to lose, the Devils still know how to win)
Flyers in 7 - the Caps will run out of gas (Flyers will get swept in round two though)
Ducks in 5 - refs will forget their whistles again
Wild in 4 - the Avs are more a has-been team
Sharks in 5 - what a team (I like the Flmaes too but consistency rules)
Wings in 4 - no contest here

Hello:
In response to predictions. I do agree with all the first round winners. I am in Nashville, Tennessee. Although I do think Detroit will win the series. I do however think it will be in 6 games instead of 5. I think that the first five games will be won by home team, and Detroit win in Nashville to eliminate the Predators in 6.

I think your way off with your predictions. The Flames are built for the playoffs and Kipper is playing better than he has all season. San Jose has choked in the playoffs in the last couple of seasons and I don't think they have what it takes this year. Calgary's top five players have a combinded point total 50 points higher than the Sharks.

Flames in six

MTL in 4 - No contest here unless Bergeron and Savard are back (and Thomas stands on his head)

PIT in 5 - Yes they have a tonne of experience from last year but their two best players/ leaders are out, and they have the weakest goaltending of all playoff teams. Fleury is on his game.

PHI in 6 - WAS spent a lot of energy just getting in, and the Flyers will punish them from start to finish. So much more depth in PHI with solid goaltending.

NYR in 6 - I love Brodeur and Sutter, but he's got so little in front of him. The Devils last game against the Flyers proved that Marty can only do some much.

DET in 5 - Dan Ellis steal one game. That's it.

SJ in 7 - EASILY could be an upset because I would pick CGY to pick against any other team, but SJ has been playing so well lately. This will come down to goaltending, and Nabokov has been better than Kipper this year.

COL in 6 - So much experience, but Theodore has to come through to pull off the upset.

ANA in 5 - I don't know why everyone is calling this to be close. DAL has been awful of late, and they're playing the defending champs. ANA in a walk.

Yes, what a glorious season for detriot again. But playoffs arent like the season. Theyre tough. Theyre mean. And whose mean on detroit? I can count them on one hand: Franson, cleary[sometimes, check his hit on phaneuf in last years playoffs] Lilja and.......well thats it. [Is downey playing for them?] Anyway, Detroits lack of team toughness will be their undoing as San Jose or the Mighty Anehiem Ducks will roll over them in the confrence final. So is Ken Holland really a genius?

Montreal in 6
Pittsburgh in 7
Philadelphia in 6
New York Rangers in 7
Detroit in 6
San Jose in 5
Minnesota in 6
Dallas in 7

No one seems to be mentioning that almost half the games the sharks played in the last 20 - 22 games were against non-playoff contending teams. The sharks are being crowned before the playoffs start because the beat a bunch of underachieving teams down the stretch? come on.

All the whiners from Ottawa need to be quiet. Who cares if Pittsburgh tanked the last game or not! If they did, so be it. They were already in the playoffs and there was no need to push themselves, get hurt, etc. Why are all the Ottawa fans so upset? If Ottawa can actually win (like all their fans seem to be saying) they will have to go through a lot more than just one team so whoever they get in the first round should be a mute point!

I think the Pens, Montreal and Detroit are all going to have a good run and likely Anaheim to round out the final four but there certainly can (and likely will) be some upsets somewhere that will throw this (and most other predictions) off.

Should be fun!!

First round upsets in the making: Ottawa will win in 6 as will the Preds.

Cup Final - the two last teams you expected. Crapshoot.

Montreal in 7
Ottawa in 7
Philadelphia in 6
New-Jersey in 7

Detroit in 6
San Jose in 7
Minnesota in 6
Anaheim in 4

FINALE: Detroit vs. Montreal
Montreal in 6
Go HABS Go !!!!!!!

I get such a kick out of reading these ridiculous predictions - both by the so called media experts and the beer-swilling, arm chair athletes who think they know sports. I've been around long enough (both as a player in junior hockey and as a spectator of the game) to give my 2 cents worth:

The regular season means absolutley squat, other than qualifying for the playoffs. Don't go reading a bunch of meaningless stats into what happens in the regular season. Once the playoffs start, it's another season entirely. Mark my words, there will be a lower-seeded team (i.e. finished in the bottom 4) that will be in the conference finals. It's one thing to play a team and kick their a*s in the regular season. It's another to suddenly have to play them in a long series. It adds a whole new element to the game and some of the so-called favourites cannot adapt to it (Detroit is a prime example). This then brings me to my second point, and that is that the game is played on the ice, not on paper, internet, etc. The so-called favourites often fall to the wayside by teams that have nothing to lose. So let the playoffs begin and watch as the Flames and Bruins battle it out in the Cup final.

I watched the game between pittsburg and Philadelphia and as far as i could see the penguins just showed up but not to play i liked them until i saw that game.... AND as for the canadiens they should rally the national hockey league to let them play 5 on 4 all the time because most of their goals are on the power play..... come on washington

good picks for the first round,

montreal will lose to either the sharks or the ducks in the finals.

I think there's still a few people in toronto still putting their money on the leafs.

Montreal in 4
Pittsburgh in 6 (tear for Ottawa)
Washington in 6
NY in 7
Detroit in 7
San Jose in 6
Colorado in 6
Anaheim in 5
Anyone calling Boston doesn't watch hockey, they're just cheering for a team with no hope.

These predictions are anything but fearless. They are safe and predicable with no surprises. To be truly fearless you need to gamble on possible upsets. As in every other year, there will be upsets. Wait and see.

Good call on Washington. They have been the hottest team in the league, grinding out playoff-style must-wins for a month. The Broad Street bullies will wear them down; but they don't have the skill level to do it.

As a longtime Penguins fan sufferer, I like your five-game call vs. Ottawa. But not a chance. This team, if it wins, will do so in seven, gut-checking all the way. You NEVER know what kind of team they will ice. My heart says Pens in 7; head, Sens in 6.

I think that in the finals it will be the habs and the sharks. The habs will win the cup in 6 games. By the way I think that the sens will surprise the penguins and win it 4 straight.

I think that Colorado is going to give Minnisota a much harder time them people think. They are stronger up front and have the experience needed to go deep in the playoffs. With leaders like Sakic, Forsberg, Smyth, and Foot, the Avs are going to take this series in 6

Flames will go all the way. No questions asked.

Final: Anaheim v. Montreal. Anaheim in 7.

Anybody else who actually bothers to read these comments notice a recurrent theme? Everybody predicting an Ottawa upset is from.....gasp for suspense....Ottawa. Let's be serious here, Morrison hit this one straight on the nail: Ottawa has about as much of a shot getting through Pittsburgh as Nashville does Detroit: slim-to-none.

All in all, I think Scott's predictions are pretty good. Like many others noted, a bit on the safe side, but the playoffs are a crap shoot and one never knows when an upset is brewing: except in the Sens series of course. Emery will be getting in car accidents on his way to the links by the end of next week.

I love the Habs but I think this is either Pittsburgh or San Jose's year. The big question mark with the Penguins is Fleury between the pipes, but he's a good local boy with a lot of character and I think he's ready to prove his detractors wrong with a solid post-season showing. Price is going to stand on his head to, but I don't think the Habs have the ammunition to contend with Malkin, Crosby, Hossa, Sykora and Roberts. Next year it's all Montreal though!

montreal in 5
pittsburg in 7
washington in 6
new jersey in 5
detroit in 5
san jose in 7
minnesota in 6
dallas in 6

pittsburg over san jose in 6 in the stanley cup final

6 of 8 i agree with mr. morrison. For once in many years just like march madness the majority of the favourites should undoubtedly pull through.

I would have to agree with Tom there has been something funny going on almost like a consiracy in the New NHL. I think its about time the the NHL brass back off and let the talent decide who wins this year. Not the almighty DOLLAR. Anybody who has watched the last few years of hockey will know what I'm talking about. And Tom said it all in his post.
I also think that the Flames are going to be a force to reckon with this year. They have been alright throught the stretch, but they always find a way to pull together in the playoffs.

MAn I don't beleive that everyone has given up on the sens. COme on people you don't get to the Stanley Cup finals on sheer luck. They have skill it's just a mater of actually realizing where they left it. We don't need Alfie or Fisher in order to win. It would just be easier if we did have them. Regardless of what anyone else may think the Sens are going to send the Penguins back where they belong. Sitting on their buts wondering where they went wrong

I am fascinated by some of these comments.. Some people seem to have some crazy idea that Montreal is probably going to lose in the first round? Did you know that Boston has beaten Montreal 4 times in their last 27 matchups? So how the heck are they going to win 4 times in 7 games? I know the playoffs are different, but they aren't that different.. I am not saying it's impossible cause crazier things have happened.. but if anyone is willing to make bets on this one.. I have a house and car I am willing to put on the line.. and possibly my mother.. the fact of the matter is it's not likely Boston is winning.. Montreal in 3.

I think that Volchenkov & Phillips can shut down the Malkin line. Spezza & Heatley should keep up with the Crosby line and OTT should be OK. Play a puck possession game (ie play keep-away from Crosby & Malkin) and avoid giving PIT PPs and OTT wins.

I'm also going to go with COL over MIN in the West. With all of COL's firepower, the D additions at the deadline and health all around, the team is different from any team they've had throughout the year.

OTT & COL are my two underdog picks. All the other favourites should win (with the possible exception of WAS).

I can't believe the number of people who think Ottawa is actually going to win against the pens. Ottawa is my favorite team after the Oilers, but I don't think Ottawa can prevail without their heart and soul player in Alfreddson and without the grit of Fisher...but I've been wrong before. Pens in 6.

I think the Montreal-Boston series is going to go to 6 games at least. Boston might not have touched the Habs all season, but this is the playoffs; things change.

I predict Pittsburgh and San Jose in the final.

Not much imagination in these predictions. I've got an idea, let's pick the highest ranked team to win every series (save one 'upset' of a fifth ranked over a fourth ranked team), we're sure to be right! C'mon CBC, take a few risks in your choices, just for interest's sake. We all know these predictions are about as accurate as a monkey with a spin wheel (see correspondent Maggie at TSN), so why not have some fun with it?

Ottawa's big challenge will be right out of the gate. If they win game one, they will beat the Penguins and it's off to Montreal which will be their bigger challenge, not Pittsburgh. If they play to their level and leave the past behind, they could very well be the Eastern champs again. Especially if Fisher, Alfie, and Kelly come back. Their biggest challenge will be against the Sharks (or Anaheim - get Giggy with it)!!!

The road to the stanley cup goes through eastern canada....and the PENS are driving a kenworth.

Agree: Habs * Pens * Rangers (not sure), WIngs*, Ducks*
Disagree: Flyers will win in 6 or 7... They are finally healthy and are a gritty team with scoring depth.
Flames need their D to be much better in getting the puck out of the zone - but they have more scoring depth - Nolan has been hot against his old team, Tanguay is a great playoff performer, Huselius was one of the few Flames that showed up for the post-season last year... Boyd, Nystrom and Moss looked great down the stretch. The Flames crushers like Regehr, Phaneuf and Van DerMeer will make life miserable for Sharks forwards.
Avs will win against Minny. Theodore has quietly (re-)emerged as an elite goalie. Look at the character in the dressing room - Smyth, Sakic, Foote... Avs have a great mix of old and young and are coming together at the right time.

i would not be so quick to brush off the flames this year. Its took them all year to get their defense together and synced and after their last game against vancouver they definately prevailed. Were getting secondary scoring and you failed to mention the flames beat san jose in the series this year without all that much effort. Flames in 6

I dont see how you can compare consistency in the minnesota colorado series. Colorado had over 300 man games lost due to injury, so it would be hard for a team losing that many games to injuries to be consistent. Minnesota hadn't lost anywhere near to 300 games due to injuries this season. A healthy colorado will take the wild in 5 games.

Wow Morrisson! You picked seven out of eight favorite. That's fearless!

Boston in 6
Pittsburgh in 5
Philly in 7
NJ in 6

Detroit in 5
SJ in 6
Colorado in 7
Anaheim in 5

I agree with all except the following:

If the Flames show up they will give sharks a run for their money may take the series in 7 games, otherwise they lose in 5...

Rangers have looked shaky against top opponents and will probably lose to the Devils

Avs will beat out the wild behind great goaltending

And the biggest upset will be the Sens shocking the Pens - who should have won their last game.. Therrien should know its no time to be cute losing games and it will cost his team huge.

Don't be surprised if Montreal doesn't make it out of the 1st round. New Jersey are done, not just this year but for the next 3 or 4. Detroit can be upset in the 1st round also. I'm not a Sharks fan but the elements are all in place for a deep run.

I would have to disagree. I would think that New Jersey has what it takes to beat the Rangers, I also think that the Pittsburgh Ottawa series will a seven game series.

I really like some of the first round matchups , I think calgary and detroit are the only teams good enough to beat anaheim

While your comments have been noted Scotty, you have dropped the ball on a couple of your predictions. I give to you, the most accurate storyline for the first round of the playoffs with accompanying predictions...
Montreal vs Boston - You were close on this one. Montreal will win the series, but I think it will go 6 games (4-2). Give the Big Z some credit and if Savard is able to play, I think wining 2 games is a possibility.
Pittsburgh vs Ottawa - You totaly missed this one. Ottawa will surprise a few people out there (ok, a lot of people). It's not how you get there, it's what you do once you're there. Ottawa in 7.
Washington vs Philadelphia - Yes, Washington had to win a few just to get there and yes they have Ovechkin, but the Flyers are on a mission that will have them take the series in 7. Remember, Washington only got the 3 seed because of the crappy Division they play in!
New Jersey vs New York - MARTY! MARTY! MARTY! Devils in 6!
Detroit vs Nashville - Agreement here, Red Wings in 5 (give the Predators some credit).
San Jose vs Calgary - Sorry Calgary, but the Sharks are too tough. Sharks in 5.
Minnesota vs Colorado - Colorado in 7.
Anaheim vs Dallas - Agreement, Ducks in 6!
See you in Round 2!

Penguins tanked the final game, even if you say they didn't. It was also the right move.

Just an observation, but since the NHL had the big $ problems and the lock out the Stanley Cup finals have had some similarity every year. One Canadian team (to keep the backbone of the market interested) and one non-traditional US hockey market team (in hopes of growing the NHL market) with the non-traditional US market team winning the cup each time. Is there something to this?
So is this year going to be the Canadiens vs. Sharks with the Sharks winning the cup? That would be a real suprise :-P

All good picks, except the Wild are losing in 6. Avs are going to be a force in the West.

Apparently not many of you sport journalist/casters actually watched the last Penguins vs Flyer game. Aside from sitting "Cry-Baby" Crosby, none of the Pittsburgh players put much effort into the game, except from maybe Fleury. The Flyers had more chances short-handed than the Penguins did with the man advance, due to lazy and sloppy plays. Although the scoreboard might have been close, as we all know the scoreboard doesn't tell you everything. And the score would of been higher if Knuble (I believe it was Knuble) hadn't of missed on the numerous open net shots. The opportunity was there the Flyers just didn't fully capitalize. As a hockey fan, Pittsburgh's display was disgusting.