Sam Carchidi's NHL playoff picks

A year ago, I (somehow) correctly predicted 14 of the 15 playoff series, so it will be virtually impossible to come close to that.

But here's my first-round try:

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Washington over the Flyers in six:

Talent trumps emotion. The Capitals are on a mission.

Florida over the Islanders in six: The Panthers are better than people think, and they were insulted by the Isles' tank job in order to face them.

Pittsburgh over the Rangers in seven: The Penguins, despite goalie injuries, will beat the team that eliminated them in the last two years.

Detroit over Tampa Bay in seven. The Red Wings benefit from the Lightning's injuries, though Ben Bishop is capable of stealing the series.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Dallas over Minnesota in five.

The Stars, who led the NHL with 267 goals, have too much firepower for the Wild.

St. Louis over Chicago in seven. Upset special. It's difficult picking against the defending champs, but the Blues are sneaky good.

Anaheim over Nashville in six. The Ducks, rolling after a horrendous start, had the NHL's best power play and penalty kill.

Los Angeles vs. San Jose in seven. If it comes down to a Game 7, how do you pick against Jonathan Quick and Drew Doughty?

- Sam Carchidi

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