Western Conference Rolls Along!

I have a confession to make. I love the Canucks. I really have loved them ever since the worst trade in NHL history when my beloved Panthers gave Luongo away for nothing. I know he is great and that team has a ton of fast guys with a lot of talent. For some reason, I really want them to win. What a job they did last night finishing off the Blues. Hey some big time people picked the Blues to win, since they were so hot coming down the stretch. So,no prediction is even needed for Vancouver. All I know is, I do not know of any team that wants to face the Canucks in the 2nd round.

Onto the series that are still going on...Sharks/Ducks. What a series this is. I think this is the best one we have going (no disrespect to NJ/CAR). It is a bit tough in Florida to be able to watch all of this series, but every second that I have seen has been awesome. Huge hits, I mean huge and every goal has been hard fought. I think this series will come down to who makes the least number of mistakes. That was especially true last night. Both teams are solid and the difference is going to be very small. I have to go with SJ here, they did not win President's trophy for nothing. 7 games, but this will take its toll on whoever ends up winning here.

Detroit is quietly doing its championship thing as usual. They really are an amazing organization. For years I know I have thought they were too old, but somehow they keep on doing it. Hossa this year has been a huge add on and he continues to shine in the playoffs. The series with the Bluejackets will not last much longer, although I must give them a hand for making it into the playoffs this year. It is just unfortunate that they ran into Detroit. 

And last but not least is a very interesting series between Calgary and Chicago. I have been very proud of Chicago this year. They are a young, fast team and they put it together all year long to have a great season. Who would expect anything to change in the playoffs? This has been a very tight series so far, and it will probably continue along those lines. Calgary is finally on the board with a win! Apparently, Iginla is getting fired up now and that is exactly what the Flames need (see http://www.nhl.com/ice/newsindex.htm?location=/portal/seri the 4/21 10:36pm blog). If they are going to come back in win, they need a productive Iginla and quite possibly a productive Olli Jokinen. I know how great Olli was for the Panthers and what he is capable of doing for the Flames. In the end, this series is going to come down the the battle of the the goaltenders, Khabibulin vs.  Kiprusoff. So far the "Bulin Wall" has been a bit better and that translates to the narrow edge, but who knows what is going to happen after tonight. This is a huge game, 3-1 or 2-2? I really don't have a good prediction either way. If I have to make on I am going to go with Chicago in this series in 6. 

Happy playoff watching everyone! See you tomorrow!!