The Coach's second round playoff predictions

Well the Coach was 6 out of 8 in the first round. Though the Sabres behind Ryan Miller would upset the Flyers and they did make it close. I also did think the Predators would finally make it to the second round but here they are facing the Canucks. There weren't the usual high number of upsets in the first round. Perhaps they will happen this round.

Eastern Conference

(1) Washington Capitals vs. (5) Tampa Bay Lightning

The Capitals seem to be more resilient this year having learned from last season's disastrous playoffs. They scored less but gave up even fewer goals. Tampa Bay prevailed against the Penguins predominantly because they had all their lethal weapons healthy while Pittsburgh was at a serious disadvantage without Crosby and Malkin. Dwayne Roloson will keep the Bolts in games but Ovechkin and company should prevail.

Prediction: Caps in 6

(2) Philadelphia Flyers vs. (3) Boston Bruins

A Flyers vs. Bruins rematch from last season should be the highlight of the second round. Last season the Bruins were up 3-0 in the series before collapsing and losing 4 straight. Danny Briere was unstoppable in the first round and should continue the carry the Flyers. The Bruins were lucky to beat Montreal. How you win a series without scoring a powerplay goal is a total mystery. The Bruins' physical play will be matched by the Flyers. The only interesting factor will be goaltending. Thomas won the round one series for the Bruins. Meanwhile the Flyers net should have a revolving door installed.

Prediction: Flyers in 6

Western Conference

(1) Vancouver Canucks vs. (4) Nashville Predators

Nashville may be a tougher match for the Canucks than Chicago. Nashville had great goaltending in Pekka Rinne, the best shutdown defensemen in Shea Webber and Ryan Suter, and four balanced lines. Fortunately Luongo fought off the demons and the doubters to carry the Canucks into the second round and perhaps he can keep it up for a few more rounds as well. They will need a little more secondary scoring than what they have been getting.

Prediction: Canucks in 7

(2) San Jose Sharks vs. (3) Detroit Red Wings

Red Wings are going to have Henrik Zetterberg and Johan Franzen back in their lineup, and are rested following their first-round sweep. However, the Sharks actually have more scoring depth than Detroit. This may finally be San Jose's year after so many disappointing playoffs - or maybe not.

Prediction: Sharks in 7