The Eastern Conference Round 1 matchups have been set, so it's time to get our predictions out for the world to see. 

        I don't see either of these teams going very far in the playoffs this year, but somebody has to win the first round series.  Boston obviously has the stronger team, in just about every category.  Montreal has followed the path of the Senators decline last season, who got spanked by the Penguins in Round 1.  Expect the same results.  Bruins in 5 games with little effort required.

        The Capitals just might be good enough to make it to the finals this year.  Not win it, but make it.  The Rangers clearly are not good enough.  In fact, they're a joke of a team.  Take Lundqvist away, and the Panthers are in this spot.  Goaltending won't be enough to stop Mike Green and those above-average forwards in D.C.  Capitals in 6 games.

        The hottest team in the NHL will be the only team to pull an upset in Round 1.  The Devils are stronger offensively than they've ever been, and Brodeur seems ready to go, but nobody is going to stop the Hurricanes in Round 1 of their return to the playoffs.  Hurricanes in 7. 

        This is the toughest series to call.  The Penguins are the most exciting team to watch, but the Flyers may be the most balanced team in the league.  The winner of this game will go the Finals, which ever way it falls.  We're picking the Flyers in 6 games to win this, and the Eastern Conference.