NHL Playoff Predictions 2012: Picks for Each Thursday Night Game

The 2012 NHL playoffs began last night and they were incredible, which is nothing unusual.

There are four more awesome games tonight between a number of competitive teams that are hoping to get their quest for the Stanley Cup going on the right foot.

Let’s take a look at the matchups and pick a winner for each.

Rangers vs. Senators

New York won the No. 1 seed in the East and gets a lucky draw against a lowly Ottawa team that is lucky to even be in contention.

The Rangers hope to actually hoist Lord Stanley’s Cup depends on goaltender Henrik Lundqvist’s performance in the playoffs, but they’ll get it done easily against the Sens.

Predicted Winner: Rangers

 

Bruins vs. Capitals

Boston was one of the best regular season teams and had the highest point differential of any team in the NHL.

They are going to begin their title defense against the Capitals, who needed a late-surge to even make the postseason.

Predicted Winner: Bruins 

 

Blues vs. Sharks

The Blues have been one of the hottest squads in the sport and are looking to ride that momentum past San Jose, a trendy upset pick.

Don’t look for St. Louis to drop Game 1 as they try and prove their doubters wrong.

Predicted Winner: Blues 

 

Coyotes vs. Blackhawks

Phoenix has captured the division title for the first time in franchise history and is looking to capitalize on that momentum against favored Chicago.

It won’t be easy for the desert-based hockey team to accomplish, but they will use their home ice to deliver the first blow.

Predicted Winner: Coyotes