Quick and Dirty Playoff Picks

Now, I could be that guy and analyze every portion of the NHL playoff match-ups, giving the ins and outs-- but why bore you with all that mumbo-jumbo. You want predictions, you want picks, you want the meat and potatoes-- all killer, no filler. Welp, drive-thru to the second window because your order is ready.....man, am I hungry now or what??

EASTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Montreal Canadiens vs. (8) Boston Bruins-- Montreal in Five Games
Why?? Look, the Habs took all eight games from the Bruins and are on a roll with Carey Price anchoring the team from the pipes. With Alex Kovalev playing great and everyone chipping in for the Habs; the Bruins don't stand a chance.

(2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (7) Ottawa Senators-- Pittsburgh in Six Games
Why?? The Senators are depleted and one of the worst teams since American Thanksgiving. Though they dominated the Pens in the regular season, the Pens will have too much fire power for the Sens to handle and the media frenzy behind the scenes will wear Ottawa down.

(3) Washington Capitals vs. (6) Philadelphia Flyers-- Washington in Seven Games
Why?? The Caps are the hottest team in the playoffs, but the Flyers are always a tough team to play against. Alex Ovechkin will have a lot to prove, as will Cristobal Huet so expect both to be on top of their games and squeak this series out in the distance.

(4) New Jersey Devils vs. (5) New York Rangers-- New Jersey in Five Games
Why?? The offense for the Rangers hasn't been the most consistent and you have to wonder which Jaromir Jagr will show up. It should be a goaltending duel, but you never bet against Martin Brodeur in situations like these.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Detroit Red Wings vs. (8) Nashville Predators-- Detroit in Five Games
Why?? The Wings are going to overpower the Preds from the word go and won't let up. They have plenty to prove because of their recent playoff woes, so they should be out for blood.

(2) San Jose Sharks vs. (7) Calgary Flames-- Calgary in Six Games
Why?? The Flames are far more physical and should throw the Sharks off their game. Evgeni Nabokov doesn't have the best playoff history, while the Flames could be underestimated and be able to shed the underdog label if they get out to a quick series start.

(3) Minnesota Wild vs. (6) Colorado Avalanche-- Minnesota in Seven Games
Why?? The Wild have a team build for defensive playoff hockey and the wheels to get goals when needed. Niklas Backstrom should be solid, while Marian Gaborik will be the main focus. While the Avs have everyone healthy, I don't think they can contain the speed, nor be able to dictate the flow of the game like the Wild will.

(4) Anaheim Ducks vs. (5) Dallas Stars-- Anaheim in Seven Games
Why?? The Ducks have been on fire after a slow start and getting Teemu Selanne and Scott Niedermayer back. The only reason the Stars will be in it is if Marty Turco can stand on his head like he did last year against the Vancouver Canucks in the first round.

The playoffs begin on Wednesday, so strap in, throw the remote out, and enjoy.