#1 Washington Capitals vs. #5 Tampa Bay Lightning
Unlike Round 1, the Capitals face a team that has the guns to match their scoring ability. Alexander Ovechkin didn't dominate the Rangers and needs to step up his game if he wants to lead his team to the next level. The old vet Dwayne Roloson is playing well in net for Tampa, and combine his production with young Steven Stamkos', the Lightning will be a very tough out. I like the Caps a little more, but this should be a fun series.
Prediction: Capitals in 7
#2 Philadelphia Flyers vs. #3 Boston Bruins
Another exciting series, this is as gritty as it gets. Each team's identity is built on its toughness. Expect the gloves to drop early and often. In terms of who actually wins the series, I like the Flyers' goal scorers a lot more than Boston's, but I like Philly's goaltender situation a lot less. The Flyers were my Eastern Conference pick going into the playoffs so I won't pick against them now, but an upset is all to easy to imagine.
Prediction: Flyers in 6
#1 Vancouver Canucks vs. #4 Nashville Predators
The Canucks already cleared their toughest hurdle en route to the Western Conference Finals. By beating their playoff rival Chicago Blackhawks, the tension should let up a little in Vancouver, and the Canucks should dispatch Nashville with ease. I'm still asking myself, "How did the Predators make the playoffs?" Earning the #4 seed is a whole other mind boggler.
Prediction: Canucks in 5
#2 San Jose Sharks vs. #3 Detroit Red Wings
The Sharks didn't blow me away like they did last season, whereas the Red Wings have constantly surprised. Detroit is playing very well right now and was the only team to sweep its first round series. I'm going with Hockeytown.
Prediction: Red Wings in 5
--from Eric
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