Playoff Journal Part IV

East
1. Boston Bruins vs. 6. Carolina Hurricanes Briggins says:
The Canes are coming right off an upset of the New Jersey Devils. They scored some huge goals including game winning goals with 0.2 seconds remaining in game four and 18.9 seconds left in game 7. Don't expect the same magic against the Bruins. The B's are well rested and ready to take on a Canes team that no doubt will be tired from a long seven game series. The usual playoff monster Rod Brind'Amour has been contained, being held to zero points in their series against the Devils. I imagine the Bruins have been watching the tapes and will also contain him. Boston is a team that capitalizes on every turnover and mistake by the opposition, making them too much to handle.
Prediction: Bruins in six

Ben says:
The Carolina Hurricanes Definitely sent a message in their first round series with the New Jersey Devils- they won’t be taken lightly. The Devils entered the series as clear favourites, but were shocked in the end by a young and determined Carolina team. However, Carolina could be in for a frustrating series against Tim Thomas. Their determination pushed them through into the second round but I don’t think that will be enough against a team as deep as the Bruins.
Prediction: Bruins in 5


2. Washington Capitals vs. 4. Pittsburgh Penguins
Briggins says:
This is a dream matchup for the NHL and fans alike. Superstars Ovechkin, Crosby, and Malkin go head to head in what should be a series full of highlight reel worthy plays. The Capitals rallied back from a 3-1 deficit against a Rangers team that was not nearly as strong as the Penguins. The Penguins meanwhile were inconsistent against Philly and will need to play solid all series if they hope to win. The Capitals also have to work on their consistency. Last series the Rangers were able to win games they shouldn't have. This series will go to whichever team is the most consistent. Who wants it more; Crosby or Ovechkin?
Prediction: Penguins in seven

Ben says:
This has potential to be one of the best series in the playoffs. Finally the two best Players in the world get to face off in the playoffs. Pittsburgh got a bad scare in the first round against the Flyers but rallied in game six and took the series. Washington, meanwhile, showed a lot of guts and determination coming back from a 3-1 series deficit to defeat the New York Rangers. Washington will come out with a lot of speed. Alexander Ovechkin has the ability to completely take over a game offensively like no other player in the league. However, the longer the playoffs go on, the more important depth becomes, and Pittsburgh is a slightly deeper team that can get it done throughout the lineup.
Prediction: Penguins in 7