NHL Playoffs 2012: Predicting Winners for Thursday Night's Matchups

The 2012 NHL Playoffs had a smashing debut last night. Thursday night's schedule has its own exciting possibilities for memorable moments.

We don't know if we'll get another thrilling game-winner like we saw in the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers game. But you can bet the games will be fast and furious.

Last night, the Flyers, Predators and Kings were victorious—that's two out of three road teams stealing home-ice advantage.

Will that trend continue tonight?

Here are my predictions:


Ottawa Senators at New York Rangers

This is an eight vs. one matchup, and the Kings proved last night what can happen to the top seed in Game 1.

Ottawa took the season series three games to one, and Jason Spezza has been especially impressive against the Rangers.

In four games, he amassed six points and was plus-four overall. I expect he and the Sens to shine again tonight.

Make it two, eight over one upsets in series openers.


Washington Capitals at Boston Bruins

The defending champions started slowly in the postseason in 2011, but as we all know, they turned it around. I expect the Bruins to be wary of digging another deep hole, so they will come out on fire.

The Caps did win the season series, but this is money time. Traditionally, the Caps have failed to rise to the occasion in these situations.

The Bruins are a better team, and they'll be intent on showing that early in this series. They will shake off the 1-3 regular season record against the Caps to take Game 1.


San Jose Sharks at St. Louis Blues

This series has the best chance to end in a sweep. The Sharks simply don't match-up well with the Blues. They have had no answer for either Blues' goaltender all season. Against Brian Elliott and Jaroslav Halak, the Sharks have scored a total of three goals in four games.

That type of scoring won't win you many series, and it'll lead to a loss in Game 1.


Chicago Blackhawks at Phoenix Coyotes

This is an interesting three vs. six matchup. If the Hawks can avoid senseless penalties, they have a great shot at winning Game 1, and this series.

The Hawks' biggest weakness is their penalty kill. They stop just under 79 percent of their opponent's power play opportunities.

This isn't exactly the Coyotes' strength either, as they have one of the worst power play units. 

This comes down to whose weakness will be exploited. I'm going with the Hawks' ability to stiffen on the PK unit.

This core group still has championship pedigree, and the overall advantage in experience.

They will take Game 1 of this series and knock off the Coyotes.