More often than not I try to avoid covering subjects that I feel have been beaten to death, but the temptation of throwing in my playoff predictions is just too much. Maybe I will look like a genius, or maybe i'll look really foolish. Here goes nothing!

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Montreal (1) vs Boston (8)

We have all heard of Montreal's dominance of Boston and their great powerplay, so I will not review that for the umpteenth time. Suffice to say Montreal's offensive depth is impressive with 7 50+ point scorers on their team. Same with the defence, Streit and Dandenault have been used at forward most of the season but, should injuries arise, they can pinch in on D. Bouillon and Komisarek should be healthy.

Much has been made of Zdeno Chara's importance in this series, but I for one think he is one of the most overrated players in the league. Players may be intimidated by his size and strength, but when good pressure and forechecking are applied I find that he often reacts poorly. His size and reach may save him at times, but with the increased intensity of the playoffs his flaws will be exposed. There is a reason he was a playoff scapegoat in Ottawa and that they chose to retain Redden instead. As for the rest of the Boston squad, they simply do not have the depth to cope with Montreal's multi-pronged attack, especially with the unfortunate injuries that befell their squad. On the other hand, I can't help but be fearful of them, they are tough, have nothing to lose and seem "due" to win against Montreal.

As far as goaltending is concerned, we have two playoff rookies here but I think that is a non factor with these two individuals. Carey Price seems almost zen in goal while Thomas is an extremly hard worker who has seen his share of hockey in his life, I don't see either "choking".

Montreal should prevail in 6 games, but Boston won't make it easy.  

Pittsburg (2) vs Ottawa (7)

Ottawa is an absolutely jumbled mess right now. The team seems disoriented, injuries have ravaged them and they do not have the depth of a year ago. On the other hand, Pittsburg has learned from its experience from last year and will have a lot to prove in this rematch. Marian Hossa will also be looking to exorcise his playoff demons, especially against his former club.

Pittsburg will make it as painless as possible for Ottawa in 5 games.

Washington (3) vs Philadelphia (6)

THE story of the year has to be the spectacular come back of the Capitals to storm back atop their division. I had predicted earlier in the year that they would win their division, but I wasn't expecting it in such spectacular fashion. I don't see Philadelphia stopping Washington's run just yet, especially with the great acquisitions made by George McPhee.

Washington keeps on rolling, winning it in 6 games.   

New Jersey (4) vs New York Rangers (5)

Martin Brodeur.

New Jersey takes this intense rivalry in 7 games

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Detroit (1) vs Nashville (8)

Nashville always put up a tough fight against Detroit and they should once again do so here. This series almost seems like a possible upset to me. In the end though Detroit's skill, experience and depth are undeniable. The only major variable here is the goaltending of both teams, but unless Detroit's tandem falters in spectacular fashion or that Nashville's netminding is all-world, Hockeytown should handle Music City. 

Detroit in 6 games, Nashville always makes it a battle.

San Jose (2) vs Calgary (7)

Joe Thornton does not seem like a big-game player to me and his San Jose squad seems unable to put the pieces together come spring. Mikka Kiprusoff has had an off year, but should he bounce back in the playoffs the Sharks will hit an early wall in their playoff run. Calgary has a tough squad and is ladden with experienced players who know how to win in the playoffs. 

Calgary upsets San Jose in 7 games 

Minnesota (3) vs Colorado (6)

Colorado is hoping that turning the clock back will push them forward. I find that trying to recreate the past is an often foolish endeavour, but Colorado's recipe seems to be working. Should Theodore perfome up to par, the Avs should make life miserable for the Wild.

Colorado in 6 games 

Anaheim (4) vs Dallas (5)

This in an incredibly close match up and whoever comes out of this war will be a very fatigued squad coming into the next round. Anaheim's experience and defensive depth should give them the edge in this series. However, Dallas can stiffle its opponents defensively and having a former Conn-Smythe winner and the all-time scoring American on their team helps.

Anaheim in 7 games, but I could have just flipped a coin...