2009 Playoff Picks: First Round

Boston vs Montreal
The Canadiens barely made the playoffs. They are also celebrating their 100th season. You can't make 100 without a zero.
Bruins in 4

Washington vs New York
After a strong start the Rangers almost fell off of the map. Torts and Avery give them enough of a spike to still make the playoffs. They'll do slightly better than the Canadiens.
Capitals in 5

New Jersey vs Carolina
The Canes pwned the Devils this season. The Devils needed a backup goalie and kink in the boards on the last game of the season to avoid a sweep. All the games were close though and the Devils claim to be motivated from last year's first round exit. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt.
Devils in 7

Pittsburgh vs Philadelphia
The season shows Penguins went 4-2-0 but the Flyers went 2-2-2. Those two extra wins by Pit came early in the season via overtime and a shootout. Should be a great series. Philly has the revenge factor though, so I'll say:
Flyers in 6

San Jose vs Anaheim
Another good first round division rivalry. The Sharks had a stumble at the end while the Ducks turned it up a bit. Not enough by either of them to cause an upset. The postseason series goes the same as the regular season:
Sharks in 6

Detroit vs Columbus
I really, really, really want to pick an upset here. The season series was close enough for me.
Blue Jackets in 6

Vancouver vs St. Louis
The Canucks had enough overtime losses to win the division. That's not enough for me to make them favorites here. However, the goaltending matchup is Chris Mason vs Luongo. But look at those special teams.
Blues in 7

Chicago vs Calgary
The Blackhawks get home ice because they had more OT/SO losses. They were not against Calgary though.
Blackhawks in 5