Tonight marks the opening of the NFL draft and excitement is rising to all time highs with anticipation; with all the NFL talk, it is easy to forget about the NHL.
Tonights 2 games marks the closing of round 1 of the playoffs and we couldn’t ask for better hockey.
Ottawa Senators vs. New York Rangers-
The Rangers were supposed to be a lock to advance past the 8th seeded Senators, but this cinderella story is far from over. The Spezza lead Senators have been giving the Rangers problems and look to upset the #1 seeded Rangers. Tonights game will be fast paced and intense. With the Rangers fighting for their lives, I expect veterans like Brad Richards and Marion Gaborik to lead the uber talented team. However the Senators will not role over; Mihalek is stringing together some great games and Ottawa has talent deep on their roster with younger guys like Kyle Turris. Look for both Goaltenders to show up big as both teams battle for their right to contend for the cup.
Prediction: Senators get the upset
New Jersey Devils vs Florida Panthers-
The Panthers are the higher seed, but not many expected them to advance far. Florida has brought a restructured youthful team to the playoffs and with good goaltending from their pair of goaltenders, Florida looks to shut down the more experienced Devils. Look for the Devils, led by a veteran goalie in Brodeur and a pair of talented All-Star wingers in Parise and Kovalchuk, to come out firing as they try and get their offensive stars ignited.
Prediction: Devils advance
