NHL Playoff Predictions 2012: Sleepers That Can Contend for Stanley Cup

The most exciting thing about the NHL is that once the playoffs start, anyone can win. In the fight for the Stanley Cup, regular-season wins mean absolutely nothing.

These teams have the ability to surprise people with a run deep into the spring.

New Jersey Devils

The Devils are peaking at the right time, and they have the experience necessary to win in the playoffs.

With the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference, New Jersey will have the opportunity to face the winner of the weak Southeast division in the first round.

The Devils have tons of scorers, and Martin Brodeur is one of the best goalies of all time. Even at his advanced age, there are few players you would rather have guarding the net.

Los Angeles Kings

Teams that make deep runs in the playoffs are always anchored by excellent goaltenders.

The Kings have struggled to score at times this season, but Jonathan Quick has been playing as well as anyone in league.

Quick is second in the NHL in GAA and is fifth with a .929 save percentage. 

Los Angeles cannot lose if it does not give up any goals.

Washington Capitals

It has been an eventful season, but fortunately the Capitals were able to reach the playoffs yet again.

Sure, Washington was hoping for better things after having the best record in the Eastern Conference last season, but anything can happen now that the team is in the playoffs.

The lack of a healthy goalie will be an issue, but there is talent on the team, and the Capitals can score enough goals to win a series or two.