2009 Second-Round Picks

Just sweet and to the point for four series that will be anything but.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins over Carolina Hurricanes in five: Coming off an impressive elimination of the New Jersey Devils, the 'Canes are flying high. But the Devils will seem like the inept New York Islanders when Carolina has to face the Bruins. Boston is the best team in the East and is as deep as it is skilled. Their offense is relentless, their defense stout as the neighborhood beer and their goaltending impeccable. It won't be easy but it won't be a long series either.

Caps over Pittsburgh Penguins in six: A complete series preview will appear tomorrow.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings over Anaheim Ducks in seven: It's not often you get a match-up of the last two Stanley Cup champions in the playoffs, let alone in the second round. The Red Wings have continued their championship form, with even Chris Osgood waking up for the postseason in a first-round sweep of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Nobody takes the Wings lightly and for good reason: four Cups in the last 12 years. The Ducks impressed in a six-game disposal of the flaky San Jose Sharks and are looking like contenders again. But in a match against the powerful Wings, there will be no fowl upset.

Chicago Blackhawks over Vancouver Canucks in six: It's a breakout year for the 'Hawks. Led by a combination of young and old, the 'Hawks are back and looked fantastic in eliminating the Calgary Flames. Vancouver, meanwhile, swept the St. Louis Blues faster than you can photograph the arch and are lead by uber-goalie Robert Luongo. The Canucks have some offensive firepower too, but not enough to get by the rising 'Hawks.