NHL Western Conference First Round Predictions

As we get set for the most exciting time of year in the world of hockey, there are predictions to be made and reputations to be had or lost…

Here’s our best attempt at prognosticating as we size up the Western Conference.

San Jose (1) def. Colorado (8) – in 7 games
Head-to-Head Record: Sharks 2-1-1
Bottom Line: This is the last chance for the Sharks take a serious bite out of Western Conference opponents in the post-season before the roster is dismantled. The acquisition of Dany Heatley was regarded as the shakeup to put this team over the top — this year’s playoff Sharks will be hungry and scared, while the Avs will be wide-eyed and exhausted from clawing their way into the post-season.

Chicago (2) def. Nashville (7) – in 6 games
Head-to-Head Record: Blackhawks 4-2-0
Bottom Line: While the Preds are an underrated group, who may in fact have the edge on D and in goal in this series, the Hawks have the best collection of forwards in the West and will blitz the Preds in a rather one-sided series.

Vancouver (3) def. Los Angeles (6) – in 6 games
Head-to-Head Record: Canucks 3-1-0
Bottom Line: There is great upset potential in this series, but the Canucks will prevail. Roberto Luongo and Ryan Kesler showed their big game ability in the Olympic tournament, which should take the pressure off of the Art Ross winning Henrik and brother Daniel Sedin, who are well-supported offensively.

Phoenix (4) def. Detroit (5) – in 6 games
Head-to-Head Record: Split 2-2-0
Bottom Line: You’d be hard pressed to find a more unanimous upset pick than Detroit over Phoenix, which many don’t feel will be much of a contest. Ilya Bryzgalov will put on a show while Jimmy Howard feels the playoff jitters. The Coyotes will play the defensive gameplan to a tee as they’ve done all season. After round one, the Coyotes won’t be taken lightly again.

Check out our NHL Playoffs Line Combinations Section for up to date even strength and powerplay lines throughout the post season.

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