Conference Semis

Updated/Edited Apr. 28

Alrighty, the first round is over and we're left with Detroit-San Jose and Anaheim-Vancouver. Not too unpredictable, as all the top-seeds advanced except for the Preds. So here are my half-assed analysis.

Wings-Sharks: Sharks are very physical, and the Cheechoo issue turned into a none-issue. While Detroit proved that they can play physical too. However, I didn't like the way the Wings couldn't sweep Calgary after dominating the first 2 games and had to go to 6. Sure, Calgary is like the best home team in the league, but good teams don't loose on the road like that when the opponent is out matched so badly. Hassek has been good in net for Detroit, but then again, he hasn't had to face many shots from Calgary. The Sharks, on the other hand, destroyed a very good Nashville team in the first round. I really like their front line and goalie situation. I think that the Sharks can win the series in a hurry...San Jose in six.

OB!/LB edit: SJ in 5

Anaheim-Vancouver: This is an easy one. I don't care how good Luongo is, they've played 7 games with a few overtime ones too, they have no offense, and the Ducks' D is just too good. Anaheim in 6 just cause Luongo can steal 2, but I wouldn't be surprised if the Ducks got out the brooms.

OB!/LB edit: Anaheim in 7

That's it for now, I'll go in more depth for the Conference Finals.

:::......:::

Eastern:

Buffalo Sabres (1) vs. New York Rangers (6)
After getting owned in G1 and 2, it means that the Rangers have to win the next 4/5 games. Only 3 of them being in MSG. Buffalo's team has played a crapload better than vs NYI. The Rangers might have one of the best players but their team overall doesn't compare to the Sabres. Although sweeping the Thrashers, the Rangers don't really have a chance against Buffalo, who is clearly the superior team.

Verdict: Buffalo in 5

New Jersey Devils (2) vs. Ottawa Senators (4)
After a tight game 1, the Devils will want to bounce back and tie it up at home. However, the Sens will want to beat the Devils in the Meadowlands and hopefully sweep them at home. Brodeur's somewhat shoddy play in G1 P1 made the Devils lose. The lack of D from the Sens in G1 P2 meant that they can be beaten. This is going to be a tight series and either teams could win.

Verdict: Ottawa in 7