The Puck Stops Here

Were my first round playoff predictions worthwhile? I picked five of the series correctly, but incorrectly picked Detroit, Calgary and Philadelphia as likely first round winners. On to the second round.

San Jose Sharks defeat Edmonton Oilers San Jose had a very good stretch run as Joe Thornton and Jonathan Cheechoo caught fire. I'll give Edmonton full marks for defeating Detroit, but they were not nearly as impressive during the stretch run and do not have the frontline talent of San Jose.

Colorado Avalanche defeat Anaheim Mighty Ducks I think Colorado was a better team then their regular season record showed. A team built around Joe Sakic, Milan Hejduk, Alex Tanguay and Rob Blake is a very good team. Anaheim had a good stretch run, but lacks the same frontline talent.

Ottawa Senators defeat Buffalo Sabres Ottawa may be vulnerable in goal without Dominik Hasek, but they have too many strengths elsewhere. The Ottawa defence is extremely deep, Buffalo's may be vulnerable now that Teppo Numminen again has problems with a rapid heartbeat. Ottawa has more frontline offensive talent as well. Alfredsson, Heatley and Spezza significantly outscored any Sabre players.

New Jersey Devils defeat Carolina Hurricanes New Jersey is currently the hottest team in the NHL. The biggest advantage the Devils have is goaltender Martin Brodeur who is playing very well. Carolina has the relatively unproven tandem of Cam Ward and Martin Gerber. That alone is enough reason for the Devils to be favored. Add in Patrik Elias, who is the top scorer in the playoffs so far, despite only four games played.