NHL Playoff Match-Up Previews

The NHL playoffs have started and are already off to an exciting start. The defending champ Pittsburgh Penguins already dropped a close game to the Ottawa Senators, the 7th seeded Philadelphia Flyers surprised the New Jersey Devils with superb goalie play by Brian Boucher, the Coyotes scored the goal-winning shot in the third period to hold off the Red Wings, and the Avalanche shocked the top-seeded Sharks.

West quarterfinals

(7) Nashville Predators vs (2) Chicago Blackhawks

The Predators offense is underrated and their defense is physical and capable of stifling the talented Blackhawks. Pekka Rinne will keep the Predators in the series, but the Blackhawks are too good for the overachieving Predators. Antti Niemi’s inexperience is a weakness but not a liability. This is a chance for him to prove his worth.

(6) Los Angeles Kings vs (3) Vancouver Canucks

The Kings youth will give the Canucks a challenge, but Vancouver will grind out the series win. Roberto Luongo’s net skills and experience will prevail for the Canucks. This is an exciting match-up and it wouldn’t be surprising if the Kings mature overnight.

(5) Detroit Red Wings vs (4) Phoenix Coyotes

The Red Wings are more experienced and make their 19th consecutive appearance in the playoffs, but I really like the Coyotes in this series. Why? Coach David Tippett, Derek Morris and Ikya Bryzgalov. It’s the Coyotes’ time now. Defense will trump experience. Phoenix already up 1-0 in the series.

(8) Colorado Avalanche vs (1) San Jose Sharks

The Avalanche stole one in San Jose with a late goal by Chris Stewart. Will the Avalanche upset the Sharks? Uh, N-O. The Sharks will avoid back-to-back meltdowns in the playoffs. They’ve learned their lesson. Plus, Colorado lacks the experience to finish off the Sharks.

East quarterfinals

(8) Montreal Canadiens vs (1) Washington Capitals

The reward for the Canadiens for barely making it to the playoffs? A first-round match-up against the team with the best record during the regular season. Goaltender Halak will keep things close and Montreal will steal a game, but Alex Ovechkin will find a way to to get his goals.

(7) Philadelphia Flyers vs (2) New Jersey Devils

The Flyers aggressiveness and eagerness to mix it up make this series interesting. They’ve already stolen a game in New Jersey. Brian Boucher gives the Flyers a shot at an upset.

(6) Boston Bruins vs (3) Buffalo Sabres

Tough match-up for the Sabres considering the injuries they’ve suffered late in the season. Tuukka Rask’s performance will dictate the series. He needs to focus for the Bruins to have a chance at an upset. The Sabres don’t get enough respect and this is their chance to earn some.

(5) Ottawa Senators vs (4) Pittsburgh Penguins

The defending champs are already down a game — this loss will serve as a wake-up call for them. Alex Kovalev’s absence will be too much for the Senators to overcome in the long run.

NHL Merchandise

If you’re a certified puckhead, it just might be time to show off who your favorite team is with our selection of NHL merchandise. If you want your child’s bedroom to be the envy of the neighborhood, check out the NHL bedding for their favorite team. How about flaunting your team spirit? Then check out our selection of NHL watches. For a wide selection of hockey merchandise, skate your way to the NHL shop.