FanNation

Hats off to Boston, Calgary and Washington for reminding us why playoff time is truly the best time of year.

But now down to buisness. Even though I didn't get the amount of games perfect, I was able to go 8 for 8 in my first round predctions (I had picked Pittsburgh to go all the way, obviously). But what will happen in the conference semi's? Well not unlike the first round, this still can be anyone's game.

Penguins-Rangers

Yes, this will be a huge test for the Pens. Yes they will have to shake off some rust (however so will New York), and yes they have to deal with Sean Avery. But if Avery decides to set his sights on Crosby, who will cover Malkin? The Pens boast the best one two punch in the league, and while the Rangers have more experience and a Vezina candidate in goal, I think that Pittsburgh can grind this one out if they stick to their game and don't fall under the spell of Avery's antics. He is only one player after all. If the Pens can get through this series, they will prove they truly are a Stanley Cup force to be reckoned with.

Montreal-Phildelphia

The Flyers are tired. So are the Habs. The Flyers can beat the snot out of a team, the Habs probably can't. This series will be grit vs. skill. It will likely go to at least 6 games, but I think that favored Montreal will take this one. Carey Price is proving he is for real. Koivu is back, Kovalev seems to be alive again, and the young talent just keeps scoring goals. The habs proved they aren't perfect in the Bruins series, so the Flyers have to take advantage of the inexperience and grind the habs as much as possible. That's the only way Philly may have any kind of chance to challenge.

Detroit-Avalanche

I like the way Colorado beat out the Wild, and I like the rebirth of Jose Theodore, but I don't like their chances against the Red Wings. Detroit was, after all, the best team in the league, and they're out to show everyone why. The Av's might be able to win at least one game, but with Chris Osgood owning the Detroit net, and the aging stars on the Colorado team, Detroit's big guns should dominate and win this one in 5.

Sharks-Stars

San Jose really brought it down to the wire, but they are certainly trying to shed their reputation as playoff chokers. They are rock solid on defence, have plenty of talent up front and a world class goalie. While the Stars are still fresh off dumping the defending champs, the Sharks have a more all-around team, and all the key ingredients to win this one. Not to say the Stars won't put up a fight, but so long as Joe Thornton continues to show up, the Sharks in 6.

Well there you have it. Once again, I can always admit I may be wrong, but only time will tell that. Enjoy round 2.