First round picks…
Heres the first round matchups for the 07 playoffs, and my predictions on who makes it out.
EAST
#1 Buffalo vs. #8 NYI Buffalo in 5
#2 NJ vs.#7Tampa Bay NJ in 5
#3 Atlanta vs #6NYR NYR in 6
#4 Ottawa vs. #5Pittsburgh Ottawa in 7
Ottawa/Pittsburgh…tough to judge. I think defence will win this battle, and that goes to Ottawa.
Neither Atlanta or the Rangers will have a long life in these playoffs, but I see Atlanta as still lacking in chemistry and depth. THe Rangers have a step on them, in that department, no to mention a pretty hot goalie in Lundquist
Tampa is horrible in Goal….in NJ can squeeze out St. Louis and Lecalvier, this will be a short series.
The Ilses have nothing on Buffalo. They are mediocre at best, and buffalo is is the best. 5 games max.
WEST
#1 Detroit vs. #8 Calgary Detroit in 7
#2 Anaheim vs. #7 Minnisota Anaheim in 4
#3 Vancouver vs. #6 Dallas Dallas in 6
#4 Nashville vs. #5 San Jose San Jose in 6
The Vancouver/dallas series I find hard to judge, but I beleive Dallas to have more depth and scoring ability, and Turco, if hot, can hold his own against Luongo.
Anaheim will play their two horses on the back, holding Gaborik and Demitra back. If they can take away that offence and look to penitrate the Wilds tight checking and Dfence, they can take this series easily.
Nashville/ San Jose….It just feels life the Sharks time. They have one of the most potent offenses, and 2 solid goaltenders, debatably equal to Mason & Vokoun in net. I just see Joe & Co. taking the stage and putting away the preds.
Detroit had just better win. Thats the bottom line.