Eastern Conference
Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)
Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)
- The Capitals do not care that the Penguins have a great record against them in past playoffs. Some of the Capitals didn’t even know this Penguins over Capitals dominance existed. One thing is for certain, the Capitals’ defense will be much more challenged in Round 2 than Round 1. George McPhee is happy the team he was able to build is playing some great hockey. Mike Wise pens the must-read article of the day with his profile of Donald Brashear.
- Dave Molinari likes the Penguins in six. He is a first time coach in the NHL, so there is no surprise that Dan Bylsma is learning on the job. Washington winger Chris Clark compares Evgeni Malkin to Alexander Ovechkin. While Ovechkin will garner much of the Penguins’ attention, they won’t overlook sniper Alexander Semin. The hype starts today.
Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)
Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)
Teams that have been eliminated from the playoffs:
Teams that did not make the playoffs:
Other morning articles: