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Here are my Eastern Conference predictions for the 1st round of the playoffs:
(1) Washington Capitals v (WC2) Philadelphia Flyers
Prediction: Flyers in 7
I flip flopped on this series a few times but I'm going to stick with my gut and go with the Flyers to pull off the upset.
The reasoning for that isn't any garbage narrative like 'Alex Ovechkin is a choker'. I just think the Flyers are a good team playing good hockey.
There's also the fact that since January 1st Steve Mason owns a .934SV% at 5 v 5, where most of every game is played, while Braden Holtby posted a .921SV% in that span and seems to be wearing down. On paper the Caps have the advantage in goal but if the 2nd half of the season is any indication of what we'll see the Flyers actually have the edge.
I expect this will be a very even series and come down to a one-goal contest in Game 7 but I think the Flyers will pull through and win it for Ed Snider.
(1) Florida Panthers v (WC1) New York Islanders
Prediction: Panthers in 6
The Islanders have really struggled down the stretch as they controlled just 46% (5th last) of the shot attempts at 5 v 5 over their final 30 games and have allowed more goals in that game state than the likes of Edmonton, Columbus and Colorado. That's not exactly encouraging.
The Panthers, meanwhile, have been one of the NHL's best possession teams since the deadline and their top line of Jonathan Huberdeau, Aleksander Barkov and Jaromir Jagr has been lights out.
Add in the fact they have the goaltending advantage and I have to go with the Cats.
(2) Pittsburgh Penguins v (3) New York Rangers
Prediction: Penguins in 6
I think the Penguins are the drastically better team but I'm going to give Henrik Lundqvist the benefit of doubt and assume he can steal a couple games for the Rangers.
The Penguins have been dominant in possession under Mike Sullivan, Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang and Phil Kessel, among others, are playing their best hockey of the season and Evgeni Malkin is expected back sooner than later.
I just don't see any scenario where the Rangers get by the Penguins.
(2) Tampa Bay Lightning v (3) Detroit Red Wings
Prediction: Red Wings in 7
I really like the team Steve Yzerman has assembled in Tampa Bay but I think the injuries to Steven Stamkos, Anton Stralman and seemingly every player on their roster will be too much to overcome.
Detroit has played very good hockey since the deadline but have lost games because their goaltending, after an excellent first half, has faltered.
If Petr Mrazek and/or Jimmy Howard get their act(s) together in this series I think the Wings take it.
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