Eastern Conference

(7) Philadelphia Flyers v. (8) Montreal Canadiens

The Skinny: The Flyers are coming off a grueling seven game series that saw them come back from 3-0 down to do the un-thinkable and win the series 4-3. The series also cost them their top goalie. The Canadiens are coming off their second straight seven game series where they advanced over the Pens 4-3. Jaroslav Halak and Mike Cammalleri have been the top performers for the Habs. Simon Gagne has led the Flyers. The biggest question heading into this series is if the Flyers have anything left in the tank after winning an emotional series. Even if they do is it enough to beat the hottest goalie in the NHL?

Prediction: Canadiens in 6.

Western Conference

(1) San Jose Sharks v. (2) Chicago Blackhawks

The Skinny: The Sharks are in relatively new territory. The Blackhawks are in the conference finals for the second straight year. The Sharks are coming off a dominant series against Detroit. The ‘Hawks are running on all cylinders. Chicago has gone 5-1 on the road. Four games in this series are played in San Jose. Is it destiny for Hossa to lose in the Finals again. Can San Jose finally win the West? This should be an epic series. Almost too hard to pick a winner. Each team is playing their best hockey at the right time. The series will be decided between the pipes. The veteran Nabakov or the rookie Niemi? Decisions, decisions.

Prediction: Blackhawks in 7.