ECQ Preview

That's Eastern Conference Quarterfinals to you.


(1) Washington Capitals vs. (8) Montreal Canadiens

The season series wrapped up 2-2, which makes for probably the best record against the Caps in the regular season of anyone. Still, don't be fooled. To beat the Caps, you need to knock their skill players (Ovechkin, Semin, Backstrom, Green) off the puck to render them ineffective. While the Habs aren't Verne Troyer-sized by any means, they are a very small team. Don't expect much of a series.

Prediction: Caps in 4


(2) New Jersey Devils vs. (7) Philadelphia Flyers

5-1, Flyers. Ouch. Pretty surprising, all things considered. Honestly, I don't know what to make of this series. I think the Flyers are fading fast, and I believe the Devils can get over the hump against the Flyers to move on in the playoffs. Nothing else to say.

Prediction: Devils in 6


(3) Buffalo Sabres vs. (6) Boston Bruins

The matchup to watch, for sure. I can see all types of results playing out for this one. Boston is really starting to gel, and could be this year's Carolina. However, Miller is a better goaltender than Rask, and only Boston's D has the advantage in this matchup. The playoff push may have gassed the Bruins, but I'm obligated to pick an upset in the EC. And I can't bet against the Pens yet.

Prediction: Bruins in 7


(4) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (5) Ottawa Senators

So. 3rd time in 4 years. One series taken by either team. I think the quick strikes are over, and we should get ready for a marathon. No matter who survives this matchup, it's going to wear down the victor a considerable amount. Sens are out Kovalev and Kuba, but Phillips and Volchenkov have been instrumental in holding Sidney Crosby to his lowest point average against ANY Eastern team. But with Malkin and Staal playing as well as they are, it's hard to see the Senators definitively having an answer for the Pens. It's all on the Pittsburgh D to not leave Fleury out to hang.

Prediction: Penguins in 6


Western Conference preview later today. Maybe.

- Matt