I went 2 for 8 in my 1st round predictions…

Hopefully I can redeem myself for the 2nd round.

West

1. Dallas vs. 2. St. Louis

The Blues showed a lot of heart by winning game 7 against the defending champion Blackhawks. The players must feel a huge weight being lifted off their shoulders after finally being able to get past the 1st round. I think they’re now poised for a deep run as they have the talent and depth to match up well with the Stars. The Stars had some shaky moments against the inferior Wild and they’re defensive short comings will be even further exposed in this series.

Prediction: St. Louis in 6

3. San Jose vs. 4. Nashville

The Sharks are another team that exercised some demons by being beating the archrival LA Kings. Joe Pavelski, Brent Burns and Martin Jones were excellent in the 1st round and I think they’ll continue to elevate their game against the Predators. The Predators played well to stifle the Ducks in game 7 and Pekka Rinne is starting to round into form. This should be a very competitive and closely contested series, but I think the Sharks will have the slight edge because of their offense.

Prediction: San Jose in 7

East

1. Washington vs. 2. Pittsburgh

It’s a shame that this is a 2nd round series because it could easily be a conference final. This should be the most exciting series to watch this round because of the star power present. Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin will grab all the headlines, but both teams have tons of talent beyond their superstars. It’s really a toss up in my mind who will come out on top, but I’m going to stick with the Capitals as they’re my Stanley Cup pick.

Prediction: Washington in 7

2. Tampa Bay Lightning vs. 4. New York Islanders

I was very impressed with the Lightning in the first round as they looked like they didn’t miss a beat without two of their top players in Steven Stamkos and Anton Stralman. The Islanders showed a lot of grit and resiliency in winning all three overtime games against the Panthers. John Tavares has arguably been the best player of the playoffs so far and with him leading the way, I think the Islanders will advance.

Prediction: New York in 6