Well, as usual, my first round predictions were forgettable to say the least, getting only three out of the eight overall outcomes right, and none in the exact number of games played. As you know, there is a definition of insanity that can be seen as, “Repeating the same action over and over again, expecting different results.” That said, it’s time for my second round predictions. May I have better luck with these:
Eastern Conference
(1) New York Rangers vs. (7) Washington Capitals: Rangers in 7
(5) Philadelphia Flyers vs. (6) New Jersey Devils: Flyers in 6
Western Conference
(2) St. Louis Blues vs. (8) Los Angeles Kings: Kings in 5
(3) Phoenix Coyotes (4) Nashville Predators: Predators in 7
In looking back on it, if there was one important prediction that I got right in Round One, it was when in the midst of all the thuggery we were witnessing, I predicted that someone would leave the ice on a stretcher if the officials could not get control of these players. Sure enough, a few days later, Marian Hossa’s season came to an end as he was carried off the ice after being knocked unconscious by Raffi Torres of the Phoenix Coyotes.
While I cannot go in-depth on the Western Conference, except to say that the Kings are ultra-hot right now, and I think they will take the St. Louis Blues, I would like to say a few words about the Eastern Conference. As I said yesterday, you can look at the Rangers/Capitals matchup and think one of two things: 1) The Rangers are due for a playoff series win over them because the law of averages states that Washington cannot continue the success they have had, or 2) The Capitals just have the Rangers’ number and are in their heads, therefore they will win yet again. I did not want to face Washington in the first round because of reason number two, but alas, here they are in the semi-finals. Best of luck to our Blueshirts, because if they lose to the Capitals, I owe actor and historian Ed Mantell a sandwich next time we meet up. On to the Devils/Flyers, as much as I would like to see Philly swiftly and surely take care of the Devils (as I am cheering them on yet again…*gasp!*), the thought of the Rangers and Devils meeting in the Conference Finals truly is enticing, and could do wonders for the sport of hockey in this area. However, I work and deal with too many Devils fans to want to see that team stick around any longer than they have to. Git ‘er done, Flyers.
Greg’s Playoff Predictions: 3/8 (38%)
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