Pittsburgh 3 - Ottawa 1 (Pit wins series 4-0)

Gary Bettman smiled a little when he woke up this morning, as Pittsburgh’s win ensures Sidney Crosby will be playing in the second round for the first time in his career.  The fact that he’s bringing along a pretty good hockey team is a bonus for both committed and casual fans alike.  I was going to rip on Ottawa again, but if they don’t have to show up and play hockey I don’t have to write about them.

New Jersey 3 - New York Rangers 5 (series 3-1 NYR)

The Devils probably wish they hadn’t ditched Scott Gomez at this point.  They’re hanging admirably with the Rangers, but this is a team that’s getting older, slowing down and hasn’t had it’s offense significantly upgraded since the lockout.  It’s telling, to me at least, that they’ve been outscored 8-2 this series during the third period.  Henrik Lundqvist is showing signs he’s capable of taking this team deep.

Detroit 2 - Nashville 3 (series 2-2 Tie)

I admit openly this one has me pretty shocked.  I knew the Preds were tough, and they’d give the Red Wings one hell of a fight, but I didn’t think they’d be this hard to put away.  Add to that the fact that the first two games swung on questionable officiating and I’m suddenly concerned if I like Detroit.  I’m also worried that it’s Game 4 and I’ve now seen both goaltenders.  Hasek is a notorious bitch and Mike Babcock will need all of his considerable coaching wiles to iron out the situation.  Thankfully, I hate the Red Wings, so rather than being worried, this is just fucking great.