Zamboni Nation's Round 1 Predictions

Have the run & gun Capitals learned their lesson? Last years defeat by the Halak led Canadiens prompted major changes to how the Caps play. We'll find out very soon if the changes are enough as they face arguably the world's top goalie (King Henrik) in round 1. I think Washington is best suited to fire wagon hockey - why neuter such scoring studs like Semin & Green? The These aren't your 90's rangers - they're young, well coached & poised to make some noise. Capitals as purveyors of defensive hockey? I'm not buying it.

ZN Prediction: Capitals in 7

Last years Stanley Cup loser faces a team thats been dynamite since the all star break. Buffalo doesn't the offensive horses nor the depth that Philly has but they do outmatch the Flyers where it matters most - in net with Ryan Miller. I'm betting that we'll see all 3 of Philadephia's goalies before all is said and done. This'll be a tough fought series that'll go the distance - Flyers are just too deep for Buffalo to prevail.

ZN Prediction: Flyers in 7

Boston is deeper than last year and need to avenge last years spectacular choke against Philly. The series will be interesting to watch given the events of the this regular season (Chara/MaxPac) but without Price having the regular season he did, Les Habitants aren't even at the dance. The Bruins are too big, too deep & have something to prove. Montreal cop cars can breathe a collective sigh of relief.

ZN Prediction: Bruins in 4

Very interesting series which could change in a heartbeat should Crosby return to action. The NHL hype machine is definitely missing out on the Stamkos vs. Crosby angle. In the meantime the Pens and the rest if the hockey world gets to see what Jordan Staal is made of without Crosby or Malkin overshadowing him. The Pens have every right to be leary of Tampa - they're an experienced team with a good mix of youth & veterans. In Vincent LeSt Simon Stamkos they have the fire power to match up against anyone. Without Crosby, Flower (Marc-Andre) decides this series.

ZN Prediction: Bolts in 7

What more can we ask for an opening round series? An established rivaly that had produced very exciting hockey the past 2 years. In case you've been under a rock you already know that Hawks knocked out the Nucks in the past 2 playoffs. This year things are quite different - Chicago has lost a lot of their depth & Vancouver is deeper than ever. Malholtra's will be missed but as long as Kesler & Burrows stick to playing hockey, then the 3rd time will be a charm for Vancouver.

ZN Prediction: Canucks in 7

It's hard to believe that a #2 can be flying under the radar but that's exactly what San Jose is. They've enjoyed a very good regular season and have the foot soliders that will help this team in the long run. If they have an achilles heel it's their lack of defensive depth but they do have something they've not had in recent years - a reliable playoff goaltender. LA on the other hand still has thier best seasons ahead of them. Losing Kopitar in the final weeks of the regular season has really hurt this team and the Dustin Penner aquistion at the deadline has yet to bear fruit. I'm a die hard Kings but I just don't see them getting to round 2 this year.

ZN Prediction: Sharks in 6

The Red Wings have long been the gold standard on how to run a franchise. From scouting to development to winning in the playoffs - this team does everything right. The Coyotes on the other hand are in continuous limbo but play a great defensive system and do have the edge in net. Given the endless debate about will the stay or will they go (please shut up & get it over with already) I can see this galvanizing in an us agaist the world mentality. Bryzgalov will outplay Howard over the course of the series - Detroit will be known as the Dead Things after ths round.

ZN Prediction: Phoenix in 7

4 seeds vs 5 seeds are usually are tough to call & this is no exception. In Anahiem you've a collection of Studs & Duds. Probably more so than another other team Anahiem will rely on their top guys the hardest. Nashville on the other hand has done an amazing job at staying competitive with a below average forward group. Led by a pair of all world defencemen in Shea Weber & Ryan Suter and a Vezina type season from Rinne - the Preds have the ability to take this series if they play a disciplined defensive game to which they excel. If Hiller were healthy I'd like the Ducks but they don't and I don't trust Dan Ellis or Ray Emery as far as I can throw them.

ZN Prediction: Nashville in 6