Stanley Cup Playoffs 2012: Previews and Predictions for Monday Night

No rest for the weary. That is the beauty of the first round of the NHL playoffs. There are multiple games every night and the action is nonstop.

Tonight, there are three games, all of which have their respective series knotted at 1-1. So to think that a Monday will be a restful day after a tumultuous weekend in hockey is unwise.

The Rangers are headed to Ottawa for Game 3, in what has already turned into a nasty rivalry. The Bruins are looking for someone, anyone to start scoring goals, as they take on the Caps in our nation's capital. And alas, the San Jose Sharks return home after getting shutout in St. Louis against the Blues in Game 2.

It should be another precious evening to behold in the first round of the playoffs.

Here's a look at what to expect from each game with a prediction to boot. Let's get it on! 

Rangers vs. Senators

If the Rangers were able to go up 2-0, then the series outlook would look a lot different. Sens veteran tough guy, Chris Neil had other ideas, as his overtime goal in Game 2 changed the landscape of the series.

Rangers fans are shocked at the three-game suspension that Carl Hagelin received from the NHL. Given Brendan Shanahan's inconsistencies this season, it shouldn't be too much of a surprise. But it is what it is, and the Rangers will have to move forward.

There is a possibility that the Blue Shirts will insert rookie, and Boston College star, Chris Kreider into the mix for tonight's game. If so, look for him to make an immediate impact with his great speed and puck-handling ability.

Though there have been scraps and bad blood throughout the series, you will see a more disciplined game by both sides tonight. It will still be chippy, but both teams think they can win and will need to settle into their games.

Having said that, the Sens will come out hard and energized by their home fans. Rangers netminder Henrik Lundqvist will need to be sharp early.

At the end of the day, look for Brian Boyle to continue to be an impact player and Brad Richards to have a breakout night.

Prediction: It will be a close contest, but the Rangers will break the tie in the third and add an empty net goal. Rangers win, 4-2. 

Bruins vs. Capitals

The Washington Capitals have chosen to slow down the Boston Bruins in the first two games of this series, and it's working.

Will that continue in Game 3 in D.C.? 

Look for the Caps to strike early, hope to get the lead and then sit back and weather some Boston storms.

So far, Braden Holtby has been outstanding, stopping 72 of 74 shots against. If this continues, the Bruins are going to have a tough time getting the lead in the series.

One player who has yet to emerge is Milan Lucic, but that will begin tonight. Lucic needs to be more rugged and get to the net with purpose. It is time for the big, bad Bruins to snarl their teeth and play a tougher style of hockey.

Again, this one could be just as tight as the first two games, but the Bruins will bring their 'A' game.

Prediction: Look for Lucic to get on the board, and while the Caps will stay in it, the Bruins will pull away in the second frame. Thomas will put up his best game of the series. Bruins win, 4-1.

Blues vs. Sharks

Ken Hitchcock was not rattled in the least over the antics that ensued late in the Blues 3-0 victory in Game 2. While it's not exactly water under the bridge, the cool coach knows that the Blues need to focus on the task of winning in San Jose.

Despite the late-game show, the Blues outclassed the San Jose Sharks with skill and looked in complete control in Game 3 of this series. 

With the series shifting west, the Sharks will need players like Patrick Marleau, Joe Pavelski and Joe Thornton to get on the board and contribute offensively. If they don't and the powerplay continues to struggle, the Sharks will simply not survive.

The Blues have had a terrific year, and their young players now know what they will need to do in a playoff battle. Brian Elliot will start Game 3 for the injured Jaroslav Halak, but that should not be a concern. Certainly, Elliot is a good backstop to have.

In another close and low scoring game, look for the Blues to continue to frustrate the Sharks at both ends.

Prediction: The Blues capitalize on their chances and Elliot performs admirably. The Sharks get a meaningless one late, but the Blues cruise. St. Louis wins, 3-1.