Here are my round #3 predictions:
EAST
Ottawa over Buffalo in 7 games. It has become obvious that Ottawa has finally addressed its past deficiencies - weak goaltending and a lack of physical play. Now add to that an unstoppable line of Heatley, Spezza and Alfredsson and you have a Stanley Cup finalist. Buffalo is a great team with excellent goaltending as well. But so far in the playoffs they have not displayed the offense or the defense that Ottawa brings to the table. Buffalo today is Ottawa 4 years ago. Not quite ready for prime time.
WEST
Anaheim over Detroit in 6 games. Detroit is beginning to rack up injuries and the loss of Schneider is big. You don't lose your #2 defenseman and powerplay quarterback and not feel it. Although Detroit's euro-look has been a success all year, they are now playing the most physical team in the NHL. Anaheim will wear the Wings down over the course of this series.
12 years ago
