Stanley Cup Playoffs: Day Three Predictions

Friday night has three games on the schedule, as teams will be looking to even the series against their respective counterparts.

In case you were wondering, I'm still boasting an even record of 4-4 thus far.

How about you?

Eastern Conference

Philadelphia (5) at Pittsburgh (4)—PIT leads 1-0

The Pens dominated their state rivals for most of the first game and took the series lead with a commanding 4-1 victory.

The Flyers tried to set the tone heading into game two, that included having forward Daniel Carcillo suspended for an elbow to Maxime Talbot's head.

Philadephia will have to come out firing if they want any chance at knotting the series. Look for improved play from the Flyers powerplay unit, as well as stronger goaltending from Martin Biron.

Game Two Winner: Philadelphia

Carolina (6) at New Jersey (3)—NJ leads 1-0

Coach Brent Sutter may be happy that his team is up 1-0 right now, but anyone who knows the Devils coach will tell you he won't be satisfied until the series is over.

Lucky for him, if the Devils continue their play, Sutter will be happy sooner rather than later.

New Jersey had the game controlled from start to finish and held Hurricanes star forward Eric Staal pointless. As long as John Madden's line is given the task of checking Carolina's top line the Devils will cruise to victory yet again.

Game Two Winner: New Jersey

Western Conference

St. Louis (6) at Vancouver (3)—VAN leads 1-0

On paper it would appear the first game was an even matchup.

As the game went on though, it turned into a one-sided game.

The Canucks took a 2-1 lead into the third period and protected it perfectly. If it wasn't for Blues goalie Chris Mason, this game could have been a blowout.

Although the young Blues will know what to expect going into game two, the Canucks are looking to continue where they left off Wednesday evening.

Game Two Winner: Vancouver