First Round Playoff Picks
Western Conference
VS 
While the Ducks have been one of the better teams in the latter part of the season, I just don’t think they have the depth to beat the Sharks. The Sharks have been a powerhouse in the NHL throughout the entire year and are not going to be an easy opponent in any round. However, I think this will be wildly entertaining series that should go the distance.
Trevor’s Pick: San Jose in 7
VS 
Columbus’s first attempt at the playoffs could be short lived. Although the Blue Jackets did have some success against the Red Wings in the regular season (3-3), I don’t believe they have what it takes to beat the veteran Detroit team.
Trevor’s Pick: Detroit in 5
VS 
As much as I hate to admit it, any team that has Roberto Luongo between the pipes is going to be difficult to beat. As we have seen many times this year, he can win games single-handedly when the rest of the team decides to take the night off.
Trevor’s Pick: Vancouver in 6
VS 
The Flames have had a terrible time trying to handle the young, speedy Chicago Blackhawks this year. Dropping all 4 decisions this season, the Flames are definitely the underdogs in this contest. While the Flames players all seem to be confident that they can win this series, I think this will be a huge undertaking. The Flames fan in me is obviously swaying my decision in this one…
Trevor’s Pick: Calgary in 6
Eastern Conference
VS 
What a roll reversal from last year. The B’s are dominant this year while the Habs struggled to make the dance. I predict the Bruins will be too much for the Canadiens and the series will be quick.
Trevor’s Pick: Boston in 5
VS 
Any team with Sean Avery deserves to fail miserably and rot on the golf course. While I don’t think this will be an easy task for the Capitals, I believe #8 will prove he is truly the most valuable player in this league and win the series for Washington.
Trevor’s Pick: Washington in 7
VS 
While Carolina played tremendously for the second half of the season, and in fact won the season series with the Devils 3-1, I don’t think that the Devils will roll over in the post season and let that trend continue. A healthy Martin Brodeur, snipers like Zach Parise and Patrik Elias, and a post season all-star like Jamie Langenbrunner make the Devils a sure favourite.
Trevor’s Pick: New Jersey in 5
VS 
This should be one of the most exciting series in the first round and should go the distance. Both teams are extremely talented offensively, however I believe the more physical team will eventually win.
Trevor’s pick: Philadelphia in 7
