So the NHL playoff matchups are all set, unfortunately the Rangers made it, but such is life. The New Jersey Devils will be facing the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round, so I thought I'd offer my opinion, and pick:
Offense: The Devils have the best offensive player (at least according to the numbers) in Zach Parise who was 3rd in the NHL in goals scored this season with 45. The Devils also have a lot of other offensive talent, and as usual roll 4 lines deep. The Hurricanes most skilled offensive player in my mind is Eric Staal. They also throw at you guys like Ray Whitney, Erik Cole (who you know is a prick because he spells Eric w/ a k), and a "savy" vet Rod Brind'Amour (easily one of the uglier players in the NHL). The Canes have been hot lately. Advantage: Hurricanes
Defense: The Devils have had one of the most feared defenses in the NHL for years. This seasons crew isnt quite as good as the teams with Stevens, Niedermayer, and Rafalski, but they do have some offensivly skilled D-men including Johnny Oduya, and Paul Martin. And some solid rocks back on D like Colin White and Bryce Salvador. Carolina has a few good D men themselves, including Anton Babchuk, and Joe Corvo, but they are not as deep as the Devils on the blue line. Advantage: Devils
Goaltending: Cam Ward is good. He is very good, and he has playoff experience under his belt, BUT...Marty Brodeur is the best in the world, and he will be the freshest he's ever been coming into the playoffs having played only 31 games this year. Advantage: Devils
Special Teams: Both teams were about 19% on the Power play, and 80% on the PK this season, but as was evident by the final game of the regular season, the Hurricanes PP is DANGEROUS. Advantage: Hurricanes
Intangibles: The Devils have a veteran team, a world class goalie, and have been here before. They know they need to step their game up if they are to get past Carolina in the first round. Carolina comes into the series as one of the hottest teams in the NHL, and plays in front of a great home crowd. The Devils experience gives them the edge here. Advantage: Devils
Prediction: If the Devils are able to stay out of the penalty box, they should be able to get past Carolina in the first round. DEVILS in SIX.
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