Finally. The NHL playoffs are set to begin 
tonight.Eight teams will be looking to grab a 1-0 lead in their respective series. Here’s a quick preview of what to watch, along with my personal predictions of each one.
Ottawa at Pittsburgh (7:00 on versus)- These teams split the season series with two wins a piece. This should be an exciting and lengthy series. As a Sabres fan, I’ll be rooting for Pittsburgh. I can’t stand the Senators and certainly would like to avoid playing them in future rounds. Prediction: Pittsburgh in six games.
Philadelphia at New Jersey (7:30)- I didn’t know this until know, but the Flyers beat the Devils five out of six times this season. I think Philly has what it takes to win this, as long as they can score on Martin Brodeur. Prediction: Philadelphia in seven games.
Detroit at Phoenix (10:00 on versus)- The two teams split the four game series this season. I can see the Red Wings blowing past the Coyotes in this series. Detroit came out of nowhere to earn the fifth spot in the east. Phoenix hasn’t been in the playoffs since 2002. Prediction: Wings in five.
Colorado at San Jose (10:30)- The two teams split the season series. San Jose should be eager to do anything but repeat last year’s performance where they were bounced out in the first round. Colorado might be a surprise and a tough team to beat, but I think the Sharks can edge them out. Prediction: Sharks in six.
Let’s hear your predictions for these four series by commenting below. Tomorrow we will go over the remaining four series.