The NHL playoffs preview

Later on today the NHL playoff schedule will be released but we already know the first round match-ups.

As my neighbour Reggie put it, "this is the most wonderful time of the year." I couldn't agree more.

Eastern Conference:

#1 NY Rangers vs #8 Ottawa

- The Rangers blanked the Senators five nothing in their final game of the regular season but Ottawa won the season series 3-1.

-Henrik Lundqvist could be the difference maker in net for the Rangers.

#2 Boston vs #7 Washington

-Washington win the season series 3-1.

-Boston are the defending champs but its rare that an NHL team can repeat.

#3 Florida vs #6 New Jersey

- Season series was tied 2-2.

-The Devils are on a six game win-streak.

#4 Pittsburgh vs #5 Philadelphia

Philly won the season series 4-2 but the Pens have Sidney Crosby back.

Western Conference:

#1 Vancouver #8 Los Angeles

- season series was tied 2-2

-Vancouver are 8-1-1 in last 10 games.

#2 St. Louis vs #7 San Jose

- St. Louis won the season series 4-0

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#3 Phoenix vs #6 Chicago

- Phoenix won the season series 3-1

-The Coyotes have been hot coming down the stretch.

#4 Nashville vs #5 Detroit

- season series was tied 3-3

-Nashville look ready to make a playoff run.