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My 2nd round predictions...... |
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(1) Boston Bruins Vs. (6) Carolina Hurricanes (Woo predicts: Canes in 4)
I truly believe that the Canes are a team of destiny. They beat one of the toughest teams in the NHL, the New Jersey Devils, that was destined to make the Stanley Cup finals and in heartbreaking fashion. Although a great team, the Bruins have not been really battle tested in the playoffs so far and I predict that the long layoff will hurt their momentum. The Caniacs will be enjoying a great May.
(2) Washington Capitals Vs. (4) Pittsburgh Penguins (Woo predicts: Penguins in 6)
This is what the NHL wanted all along. Now, they have their Ovechkin Vs. Crosby marketing campaign and personally, I find both of them annoying. Ovechkin's over the top celebrations are over-hyped and the alleged "whining" of Sidney Crosby makes me want to change the channel. I hope superb goaltending will rule this series.
(2) Detroit Red Wings Vs. (8) Anaheim Ducks (Woo predicts: Ducks in 7)
I predict Hockeytown will be stunned. The Ducks are for real. This is probably my most favorite match up thus far in the playoffs. It will be a brutal series and despite the rankings, both teams will not be easy to finish off. Why I like the Ducks? I am impressed with their blueline and their team chemistry mixed in with skill and toughness. This will be another upset.
(3) Vancouver Canucks Vs. (4) Chicago Blackhawks (Woo predicts: Hawks in 6)
Luongo Vs. Khabibulin. "The Bulin Wall" is back and these two teams match up evenly on paper. I like the Blackhawks' balanced attack and their power play unit has produced. I am sure Mats Sundin's quest for the cup will make headlines like Ray Bourque did in 2001, but the Hawks' scoring youth will be a bigger story in the end.
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