NHL Playoffs 2012: Last-Minute Predictions for Exciting First Round

After another remarkable season, the best teams in the NHL have settled in for the second act, and one that will prove to be just as amazing as we expect. 

The first round kicks off on Wednesday with three exciting clashes that are sure to give us a glimpse of things to come in the next few weeks. 

Parity abounds, making this an exciting prospect for even fair-weather hockey fans. Here are some last-second predictions for the more intriguing matchups hitting the ice in the next couple days. 

1. Los Angeles Kings vs. Vancouver Canucks

There are other more-talked about series, but this may be the most fun to watch. There is no love lost between these two rivals and the fact that a Roberto Luongo meltdown is a possibility makes this all the more intriguing.

The Kings have more than enough firepower to affect the Canucks' goalie, and will make this a seven-game series.

This is my pick for upset of the playoffs. Kings win in seven.

2.  San Jose Sharks vs. St. Louis Blues

Don't sleep on the Sharks, because they are a dangerous team that will make this more of a marathon than is expected. 

The Blues are great at limiting shots, but the Sharks have had no such issue all year and will certainly be relentless in their attack. I still have the Blues winning, but by a slim margin. Blues win in six. 

3. Philadelphia Flyers vs. Pittsburgh Penguins

This is what playoff hockey is all about—two teams bursting with talent that can't stand each other and coming together for an epic clash. 

I have this series going the distance, but don't see the Flyers getting over on a Penguins club that is far too deep and filled with top-notch scorers. 

ESPN reminds us that the Penguins have been averaging four goals a game since late February. Penguins win in seven. 

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