It is widely agreed upon that one of the main reasons, if not the main reason, for Montreal's demise in these playoffs has been their lamentable power play. In the regular season they sported the best man advantage in the whole league, clicking at nearly 25%. Once the post-season came around, they scored only 7 goals, giving them a 14,5% efficiency, good for 11th overall. But even those numbers are somewhat skewed by the 2 goals scored during Derian Hatcher's major penalty. Overall, the team was let down by its most potent weapon and it frequently proved incapable of providing the timely scoring the team sorely needed. One, especially Habs fans, has to wonder, when did it go wrong? Simple, it all went wrong in Game 1 against the Boston Bruins.

Montreal virtually dominated that game end-to-end, out-hitting and out-shooting the B's en route to a convincing 4-1 decision. With frustrations boiling over, Boston took a couple of late penalties which blessed Montreal with a two minute 5 on 3. For the best unit in the league, a long double man advantage should, must, translate into a goal. It did not. On that sequence, Kovalev tried to do far too much while Streit and Markov looked uncomfortable at the points. In the scheme of that one game, the failure of that particular powerplay was irrelevant, but in the scheme of the playoffs, it was crucial. Throughout the rest of the post-season Kovalev continued to make his game uselessly complicated, Streit continuously failed to put pucks on net and Markov remained unable to keep pucks in at the blueline, something he did masterfully, something miraculously, throughout the season.

I know hindsight is 20/20, but at the time I remember having this distinct feeling that "this is not good" when that fateful powerplay expired. Eventually, I connected the dots.  It seems clear to me that this one event drastically hurt the confidence of a usually devastating unit.  

After going an abysmal 1-3 in the second round, leaving my two round record at 5-7, I will now chime in with my Conference Finals picks, albeit a bit late.

EASTERN CONFERENCE FINAL

Pittsburg (2) vs. Philadelphia (6)

Philadelphia proved to be a pain in my you-know-what. My first feeling was that the Habs wouldn't make it past the second round, but I made the mistake of underestimating the Flyers a tad bit. I say only a tad bit because I did predict that series would go to seven games.

But, without taking away anything that the Flyers have accomplished, I simply cannot see them slowing down the Penguins. Offensively there is simply too much going on with these young Pens that I just don't envision the Flyers defense being able to contain them sufficiently. And even if the Penguins get behind the eight-ball early in a game, they have shown the ability to come back while the Flyers have become notorious for being unable to properly hold on to their leads. In a sense, it is miraculous the Flyers made it this far while having such trouble protecting a two-goal advantage.

The Flyers offense is obviously also very deep, but I don't think it can rival with the Pens on that level. Daniel Briere needs to be better, because I felt he was invisible in the series against Montreal, despite what his point totals seem to indicate. R.J Umberger was outstanding, but lets be honest here, half of his goals would not have gone in if Carey Price wasn't playing like Jim Carey (easy pun, I couldn't resist).  

Pittsburg wins the inter-state battle in 6 games

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL

Detroit (1) vs. Dallas (5)

Dallas has undoubtedly been impressive in these playoffs, rolling over the defending cup Champs and the talented San Jose Sharks. That will teach me to believe that the Sharks would stop choking in the playoffs. Dumb dumb dumb. I also made the mistake of thinking Forsberg would be remotely healthy and Theodore remotely good. Dumber dumber dumber.

Marty Turco's play has been stellar while Dallas has been getting contributions throughout their lineup. Their defense has been excellent and has gotten a big boost from Zubov's return.

Having said all that, I cannot bet against Detroit here. Not only do they have a player with the funkiest nickname of all time, "The Mule", but they have a lineup in which each role seems to be filled to perfection. Skill and clutch scoring ooze from the likes of Zetterberg, Datsyuk and Franzen. Draper and Maltby can shut down the best of them. Lidstrom is one of the best blueliners of all time. Drake and McCarthy provide old school grit. It just goes on like that when you skim through the Wing's line up.

Detroit wins in 5 games.  

- In my round 2 predictions I said that I felt Colorado would upset Detroit due to the strong play of Jose Theodore and the continued health of Peter Forsberg. In game 1, which the Avalanche lost 4-3, Theodore got pulled and Forsberg did not play due to a groin problem. Well, lets just say I've felt smarter in the past.

- One has to wonder if the Flyers could hold on to a lead if their mother's lives depended on it. Blown leads cost them two games against the Caps, almost cost them game 7 and now has cost them game 1 against Montreal.

- Montreal's powerplay has not been spectacular thus far in these playoffs, but their unit has come up with some big goals. Of the 4 goals scored on their powerplay, two of them were game winners while another one, from last night, tied the game to send it to overtime. The percentage might not look great, but it still has come up huge.

- This will surely not get much press, but I would like to congratulate the Hungarian national men's hockey team who won their IIHF Division 1B tournamement, hence allowing them to move up to the top international division for the first time in 70 years. They went a perfect 5-0 in the tournament, lead by the terrific goaltending of former Flames prospect Levente Szuper.

Well, in the first round I went 4 for 8 with my predictions. The same success rate as the flip of a coin. Still, I will once again put in my 2 cents for the next round.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Montreal (1) vs. Philadelphia (6)

Montreal has been very uneven in these playoffs and I am not quite sure which version of the team will show up for this second round match-up. One would have to think that they learned from their hard-fought series against Boston and should be mentally prepared. Regardless, the Flyers are not to be taken lightly. They possess a high powered offence that features six 20+ goal scorers the post-season's leading scorer in Daniel Briere. Much of the same can be said about Montreal, and if Kovalev and the Kostitsyn's keep up their play from game 7 this could be a surprisingly offensive series.

Philadelphia’s backline is a slow group and could be exploited by Montreal's speedy forwards. Jason Smith has not looked like himself in these playoffs, committing several mental errors, such as on Ovechkin's tying goal in game 7, and his -7 is second worst in these playoffs. Having said that, the Flyers' defenders aren't inept either, Coburn has looked good in these playoffs while Randy Jones and Derian Hatcher are at a league best +5.

Although Andrei Markov has been underachieving, Montreal's defence corps as a whole has been good, led by the strong physical presence of Mike Komisarek and Roman Hamrlik. It would be very welcome if the defence joined the rush more often. This is not slight to him, but Patrice Brisebois should not be the one leading defensemen in scoring. Furthermore, the defence will need to obtain better support from the forwards and make sure to clear the zone every time they get a chance. Far too often against Boston the Habs were unable to clear their zone, most notably in game 6 when Kovalev’s failed attempt lead to a Bruins’ goal.  

Carey Price has been excellent for most of these playoffs and has shown great mental toughness. Montreal has a few intangibles going for them as well, namely a healthy squad and home ice advantage. In the end, this should be a tough, close and exciting series. I see Montreal taking the series in 7 games. 

Pittsburg (2) vs. New York Rangers (5)

The Rangers looked really good against the Devils, way better than I expected in fact. Sean Avery got into Brodeur's kitchen and the Devil's netminder has been crying for his mommy since, refusing to shake Avery’s hand and blaming him for his refusal of Team Canada's invitation to the World Championships. But, Brodeur's whining is a subject for another post. The Rangers and Sean Avery will not have the same freedom to disturb Pittsburg's star players simply because Gary Roberts and Georges Laraque will keep them in check. 

New York's defence may have looked brilliant against New Jersey but they will face an incredible challenge against the high-powered Pens, who feature stellar offensive players in Crosby, Malkin, Sykora, Hossa, Gonchar, Malone and Whitney while others, such as Talbot, Dupuis and Roberts, can also provide some scoring.    

The Rangers are not push-overs and feature an impressive cast themselves, but Pittsburgh has too much here and, as long as Fleury holds the fort, Pittsburgh will take the series in 6 games.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Detroit (1) vs. Colorado (6)

Detroit is an impressive squad, are blessed with tremendous depth and skill and can rely on two competent netminders. But to me Colorado holds the keys to this series if they can answer a few important questions: 1) Can Theodore keep up his fantastic play? 2) Can Forsberg stay healthy? 3) Can Statsny chip in offensively, he who only has one point so far in these playoffs?

I think Theodore will keep up his hot play and that Forsberg stays healthy, leading Colorado past Detroit in six games. (Not too sure about Statsny, but if Theodore and Forsberg hold up their end of the bargain, it won't matter.)  

San Jose (2) vs. Dallas (5)

San Jose passed an important test in the first round and has had contributions throughout their line up. The same can be said for Marty Turco and the Dallas Stars, who won their first playoff round since 2002. The truth is, there are a lot of similarities’ here.

Marleau has looked great so far for the Sharks, he who faced heavy criticism from management, media and fans over the past 12 months. Thornton has also been able to chip in offensively, but many still feel he could bring his game up another notch.  For the Stars, Ribeiro has broken out in these playoffs with 8 points while Lethinen, Modano and Morrow have been their usual selves.

Nabokov is a Vezina-trophy candidate. Marty Turco continues to exorcise his playoff demons with another solid performance.

In the end, what tips the scales to me here is the defence. Mind you, the Stars have a solid backline, but with Zubov and Boucher out, it gives an edge to the Sharks. Not enough can be said about Stéphane Robidas marvellous playoff performance, but he cannot always be on the ice and Ron Wilson will be able to exploit this situation by obtaining favourable match ups for his offensive players.

San Jose takes the series in 6 games.   

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...

While most of us are shaking our heads looking at the insane contracts being handed out, thinking to ourselves that the owners have not learned squat from the lockout, it has occured to me that we, fans, pundits and media alike, for the most part have not learned a thing either. Most of us are idiotically clapping our heads, proclaiming teams like the Rangers, Flyers and Kings the early winners of free agency. But have we not seen this cassette before? Forget the obvious reference to the absurd spending of the pre-lockout Rangers, rather think about how most people quickly deemed the Pens as serious contenders after they went out and acquired the likes of Palfy, LeClair, Recchi and Gonchar a couple years ago. How did that work out? Oh yeah, not so well.

Or what about the Coyotes when they got Jovanovski, Ricci and cie?

Or what about the Bruins with Savard and Chara?

You should get my vibe by now, yet obviously most of you don't because a lot of you still applaud every expensive, big name, stupid free agent signing. Look, don't get me wrong, I can't help but be at least partially impressed by some of the signings, but we need to get a grip here. Because right now most of us are just like the owners, we haven't learned a thing.

Waive of stupidity

The Philadelphia Flyers submitted forwards Petr Nedved, Niko Dimitrakos and defencemen Nolan Baumgartner on waivers after their 9-1 shellacking at the hands of the Buffalo Sabres. To my mitigated surprise, all three players cleared waivers. I realize that Nedved would have been an expensive pick-up at over 2 million dollars per season, but I cannot comprehend why Dimitrakos and Baumgartner, who earn 675,000 and 1,2 million dollars per season respectively, were not claimed by any of the other 29 teams.

In a few months, when the trade deadline rolls around, teams will be giving up assets to acquire extra depth, yet when early in the season the same depth is available they take a pass. I can hear Spector in my head whispering "cap considerations", but as I mentionned before their salaries seem quite manageable. The Edmonton Oilers, whose blueline was picked apart during the off-season, could have easily afforded to pick-up Baumgartner, which would have added the depth they will once again be looking for come the deadline while taking pressure off from some of their younger defencemen. Or the Washington Capitals, who are thin at almost every position, could have had use for either player. Anyway, you all get my drift.

Latendresse to Juniors

To the Wolrd Juniors, mind you. Habs prospect Guillaume Latendresse, who has understandbly had trouble adapting to the pace of the NHL, could grealty benefit from being assigned to play for Canada's World Junior squad over Christmas time. He would be up against the best junior players in the world, gain the experience of a high pressure situation and, as opposed to in Montreal, be called on to play a leadership role. In the best of situations, Latendresse would afterwards come back to Montreal full of  confidence and ready to face the second half of the NHL calendar.

From Montreal's perspective, this would allow their prized prospect to gain valuable experience while allowing the team to take a look at some of their other forward options such as Andrei Kostitsyn, Mikhail Grabovsky and Jonathan Ferland.

Ian Moran to Anaheim

The acquistion of Ian Moran by the Ducks is a smart move as it adds the defensive depth that will be lacking once the team trades Vitaly Vishnevski, which is a subject I adressed in my July 31st Musings. Make no mistake, Vishnevski will be traded and this signing only further indicates that. Currently, Atlanta are rumoured as suitors for the Ukrainian blueliner, but keep in mind that the Canadiens' Francis Bouillon is out long-term and that the team could use some defensive depth.

Gretzky's plan won't work

The Rangers tried it for years, the Penguins tried it last year. Stocking your team with aging name players simply does not work and the recent acquisitions of Nolan and Roenick, amongst others, by the Phoenix Coyotes is just that. If they make the playoffs, I will be quite surprised, especially bieng in the ultra-competitive Pacific Division.

 Why is Bob Clarke still GM of the Flyers?

After years of playing musical chair with his goaltenders and his recent inability to adapt his team to the new, faster, NHL leads me to wonder why Bob Clarke is still general manager of the Philadelphia Flyers.

Signing slower players such as Hatcher and Rathje did not seem like a great move to me at the time, and it sure does not look good now, especially after letting swift-skating Kim Jonsson leave through free-agency and losing veteran Eric Desjardins to retirement.