NHL Second Round – Tgirsch’s Take by tgirsch

Yes, I know two games are in the books, but I’m not modifying my predictions based on those results, and I didn’t see any of the games.

EAST:
Flyers vs. Canadiens: The Flyers are a physical, ugly team, while the Canadiens are more of a finesse team. In the playoffs, as much as Kevin hates it, brawn wins. Flyers in 7
Rangers vs. Penguins: The Penguins look for all the world like the team to beat in the East. And even though New York has good goaltending, so does Pittsburgh. Penguins in 6

WEST:
Avalanche vs. Red Wings: The Avs are a tempting upset pick, but I don’t think this is the round where Detroit falls. Goaltending will be the difference here. Red Wings in 7
Sharks vs. Stars: I’m sticking with my prediction that the Sharks will repeat their perennial playoff choke in the second round. They should have destroyed Calgary, and barely escaped in seven games. Plus, Turco’s playing as well for the Stars as he’s ever played. Couple that with the fact that a Wings-Stars conference final makes me want to vomit, and it seems pretty much inevitable. Stars in 6