NHL Playoffs: Eastern Conference First Round Predictions

These are my thoughts on the 2012 NHL Eastern Conference playoffs. The Western Conference predictions are forthcoming.

New York Rangers vs. Ottawa Senators
The Rangers had a 1-3 record against the Senators in the regular season. The Rangers do not have alot of playoff experience. The difference in this series will be Henrik Lundqvist. He has been great during the regular season. Rangers win the series 4 games to 2 games.

Boston College Influence:
The Rangers forward Brian Boyle is a consistent contributor.
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Boston Bruins vs. Washington Capitals
The Boston Bruins had a 1-3 record against the Capitals in the regular season. Ovechkin and Backstrom have the ability to win games. The Bruins Defense and Goaltending are better than the Capitals. The Bruins offense is consistent and spread evenly amongst all four lines. The Bruins win 4 games to 2.

Boston College Influence:
Who knows? Maybe Barry Amedia gets put on the Capitals playoff roster.
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Florida Panthers vs. New Jersey Devils
These teams have a 2-2 record in the regular season. The teams are evenly matched. This series will go seven games. The difference in the series will be Martin Brodeur. He will play well. The New Jersey Devils will win 4 games to 3.

Boston College Influence:
Minimal. Scott Clemmemsen an all-time great BC goaltender is a successful veteran backup goaltender for the Panthers. He deserves a playoff start after going 14-6-6 in the regular season. Steve Gionta scored a game winning goal in the Devils last game of the season. Not sure if he is on the playoff roster.
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Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Philadelphia Flyers
Pittsburgh was 1-4 against the Flyers in the regular season. "Game on" in this series. Physical play during the regular season should lead to physical play in this playoff series. On paper Pittsburgh has a better team however Philadelphia has dominated in terms of head-to-head wins. Crosby will be the difference. If he can antagonize the Flyers, score goals, and make it through the series in good health then Pittsburgh wins the series. Otherwise the series goes seven games and either team can win. Personally, I am not a fan of either team and I hope that they brutlize each other. This should be the best opening round series of the playoffs. Pittsburgh in 7 games.

Boston College Influence:
Brooks Orpik is the only stand up old-school hockey player on the Pittsburgh roster. He will play defense, check, and defend his teammates (even though it is difficult to stand up for players like Crosby and Matt Cook).