2009 STANLEY CUP FINALS (RD 2)

I would have never predicted a (7-1) first round record. It is a personal best after three years of predictions and I'm pleased with the results. Hopefully I didn't set too high a standard for the next three rounds. Here are my predictions for round two.


Conference Semi-Finals

Eastern Conference


Pittsburgh (4) vs. Washington (2) - Pittsburgh (7 Games)

This will no doubt be one of the most entertaining series of the playoffs. The top three players in the world square off in what is sure to be a hard-fought affair. Two finalists for the Hart Trophy (Malkin and Ovechkin) have a rivalry that has lasted since day one. Crosby and OV no longer get along, in fact they seem to HATE each other. The Capitals recorded a (3-1) record against the Penguins this season, but I feel that Crosby and Malkin may be too much offense for the Capitals to handle. That being said, this will more than likely be a one-goal game seven and could easily go in either direction. Goaltending may be the deciding factor in this series.


Carolina (6) vs. Boston (1) - Boston (6 Games)

Carolina showed true grit and character in their first round matchup versus New Jersey. It was literally a last minute win and was one of the most thrilling finishes to a Game 7 that I can remember. Boston wasn't challenged against Montreal, and may come out flat against the 'Canes. Carolina will take Game 1, but fatigue will set in and the Bruins will be too much to handle for Cam Ward and company. Chara will be a big part of this series (no pun intended) and the Bruins will outhit and outplay the 'Canes.


Western Conference


Anaheim (7) vs. Detroit (2) - Detroit (6 Games)

If any Western team can dethrone the Wings, it's the Anaheim Ducks. They were one of the hottest teams down the stretch, and took out the President's Trophy winner in just 6 Games. This series will be decided between the pipes: will Osgood remain solid for the Wings, and can Hiller keep his cool against Zetterberg and company? Only time will tell, but I believe the Wings will play spoiler to the Getzlaf/Perry show.


Chicago (4) vs. Vancouver (3) - Vancouver (6 Games)

The 'Hawks are one of the fastest, most exciting teams in the league and there young guns, Toews, Kane, Versteeg, etc. will find it difficult to put pucks in the net against arguably the best goaltender in the world today. They solved Kipper with a banged up blue line in front of him, but the Canucks are nearly healthy and very well rested and should be a handful for the Blackhawks. Sundin will hopefully be ready for the start of this one and could be significant.