Tom Kawczynski - Off the Record

Tomorrow, a war will begin.  It will rage across 16 cities in 2 nations.  It will continue for months, for those who are lucky.  And in the end, sweetness and success for one lucky city and one team.  The Stanley Cup Playoffs are here.

I don't usually write about sports, but you should know that I am a hockey fanatic.  The girl is afraid to talk during games, and my intensity goes through the roof.  I will be staring down the screen, letting myself get caught in what I find to be the pinnacle of sport here in North America (I think the World Cup compares similarly for Europeans, maybe).  There is the instant drama, the bone jarring hits, impressive skill, and pure desperation that no sport matches compared with playoff hockey.

Yes, it is promoted poorly.  You may live in a place where hockey is an afterthought.  But, take my advice and watch.  If you like sports with strength, speed, and skill, you will love the playoffs.  I know I do.  With that, here are my predictions:

First Round

Eastern Conference
Washington 4 - Montreal 1
Philadelphia 4 - New Jersey 3
Buffalo 4 - Boston 2
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 1

Western Conference
San Jose 4 - Colorado 1
Chicago 4 - Nashville 3
Vancouver 4 - Los Angeles 2
Detroit 4 - Phoenix 2

Second Round

Washington 4 - Philadelphia 2
Pittsburgh 4 - Buffalo 1
Detroit 4 - San Jose 3
Vancouver 4 - Chicago 3

Conference Finals

Pittsburgh 4 - Washington 3
Detroit 4 - Vancouver 2

Stanley Cup Final

Pittsburgh 4 - Detroit 2

I get to be a homer.  But whatever happens, it will be fun to watch.  Until your heart gets broken, or you sip the sweet euphoria from Lord Stanley's Cup!