NHL Playoff predictions

The history making Columbus Blue Jackets are a team to be feared. Into the playoffs for the first time ever, backed by a Knights' legend, Steve Mason whose in the conversation for Rookie of the Year, Goalie of the Year and Most Valuable Player. And the playoff wait is finally over for Rick Nash. The goal scoring machine is eager to make a scene while London grinder Jason Williams knows much about the Spring grind thanks to his years in Detroit. There's something special about Ken Hitchcock's Blue Jackets and I don't think they're done yet. Look for them to upset the champs on the back of better goaltending.

Jackets in 6

After sitting out the past 6 years, the Blackhawks are back in 'the dance'. 25 goal, 70 points man Pat Kane, who got just a year's worth of playoff experience in London, now gets his first taste of the NHL postseason. Chicago draws a vulnerable Calgary team in the 1st round. The Flames have stunk lately and won't rebound in time.

Blackhawks in 6

The Blues went from the playoff bubble to the 6th in the West and Andy McDonald's finger prints are all over the turn around in St. Lou. After missing considerable time with an injury this season the Strathroy boy scored 15 times, compiling 44 points. He knows playoff pressure, having won a cup with the Ducks in 2007. The Blues open with Roberto Luongo and the stingy Canucks who may end up being too much. Unless Mats wakes-up it'll be up to Luongo to carry the load. What else is new?

Canucks in 6

Is this finally the year Joe Thornton realizes his Stanley Cup dream? One of the game's best, leads the league's best into the playoffs, again. If St. Joe and the Sharks can shake memories of past postseason disappointments, look out! But Corey Perry and the Ducks scrambled hard to make it this far. They won't roll over, but they will eventually lose. Sharks are going all the way this year.

Sharks in 6

The Eastern Conference doesn't offer many new chances to local NHL'ers, but second chances are a plenty. Plus-minus leader, Dennis Wideman and his top seeded Bruins are up against rival Montreal in round one. The Habs are depleted on defence and mentally exhausted after a tumultuous year in La Belle province. It would be a miracle if they upset the big bad Bruins.

Bruins in 6

46-goal man Jeff Carter and the fly guys are back for more. East finalists last Spring, but hard pressed to return drawing a revamped Pittsburgh team in the opening series. Under Dan Bylsma, the Pens are focused on a return trip to the cup final. They're going the distance as only the battle of Pennsylvania can.

Pens in 7

2005 Memorial Cup winner in London, Defenceman Dan Girardi helps anchor a Rangers team that just squeezed into the playoffs. Up against, talented Alex Ovechkin, tough John Erskine and the Caps to start off? Forget it. Rangers aren't good. The Caps could end up in the Conference final.

Capitals in 5

While Petrolia's Michael Leighton won't play much, he'll at least have the best seat in the house, as back-up to Cam Ward on a deadly Hurricanes squad. With Leafs' scapegoat Paul Maurice once again at the helm, the Canes bulldozed into the playoffs on a tear and could advance having drawn the Devils who've stumbled and bumbled ever since Martin Brodeur's record breaking night. Goalie duel. Ward wins.

Hurricanes in 7

The NHL playoffs are back, filled with reasons to care again. New blood. New passion. New dreams...and a new story about to unfold.