THE NHL PLAYOFFS- FIRST ROUND PREDICTIONS

Here are my predictions for the first round of the NHL playoffs. There will be a tough battle for the Stanley Cup this year with 5 or 6 possible contenders.

WASHINGTON AND MONTREAL
-Capitals' offense is too strong for the offensively challenged Habs and their questionable goaltending
WASHINGTON IN 5 GAMES

NEW JERSEY AND PHILADELPHIA
-New Jersey's stiffling defense will ultimately stymie the struggling Flyers' offense
NEW JERSEY IN 6 GAMES

PITTSBURGH AND OTTAWA
-As a Sens' fan, I hope I'm wrong, but Pittsburgh will pressure the inconsistent Senators' defense, and will win the offensive battles. But the Sens won't go down without a fight.
PITTSBURGH IN 7 GAMES

BUFFALO AND BOSTON
-Buffalo's defense and goaltending will prove to be too strong for the weak Bruins offense
BUFFALO IN 6 GAMES

SAN JOSE AND COLORADO
-the veteran Sharks will pressure the young, inexperienced Avalanche. But the Avalanche will give them a battle.
SAN JOSE IN 6 GAMES

VANCOUVER AND LOS ANGELES
-Vancouver has offensive balance and strong goaltending, and a young, talented Kings' team will have its hands full
VANCOUVER IN 6 GAMES

PHOENIX AND DETROIT
-The Coyotes have a balanced, disciplined team which plays a playoff-style game. However, the Red Wings experience will prevail in a hard fought series.
DETROIT IN 7 GAMES

CHICAGO AND NASHVILLE
-The Blackhawks are a formidable opponent for the offensively challenged Predators
CHICAGO IN 5 GAMES