Stanley Cup Playoffs: Day 24 Predictions

Game 4 is the most crucial game in a best-of-seven series. Tonight, two teams will attempt to tie their respective series' while the other two will be looking for a stranglehold with a win.

Both Eastern Conference games on Wednesday night were decided in overtime. Kris Letang scored to bring the Penguins back in their series against the Capitals, while Jussi Jokinen potted the game-winner to give the Hurricanes a 2-1 lead over the Bruins.

Chris' record after Day 23: 31-24.

Eastern Conference

Washington (2) @ Pittsburgh (4)—WSH leads 2-1

Superstar Alex Ovechkin made it clear that the Capitals did not play their best game of the playoffs. Accordingly, the end result didn't lie.

After taking the early lead off a lucky bounce, the Caps had to score late to send the game to overtime. Defenseman Kris Letang threw the puck at the net and it found its way behind postseason sensation Simeon Varlamov.

Even though Washington still has a 2-1 advantage in the series, they might be in trouble. Alexander Semin didn't dress for the morning skate, leading to speculation that he won't be in the lineup for tonight's meeting.

Ovechkin quickly countered, stating that Semin will play tonight. Whether or not he'll be 100 percent will be the question.

If the Penguins can generate momentum to start the game, they should be able to tie the series a two games apiece. Marc-Andre Fleury played much better in Game 3 and will look to keep improving his play as this series goes on.

Washington needs to step up in the effort department. They know that they can't rely on Varlamov to lead them to victory. It will require a full team effort, and they should bring up their level of intensity in Game 4.

Game 4 Winner: Washington

Boston (1) @ Carolina (6)—CAR leads 2-1

Jokinen's goal in Game 3 didn't only give the Hurricanes a 2-1 lead against Boston—it gave them their first series lead.

Carolina might be taking some by surprise, but those who have been watching their play thus far in the postseason know they have been the hardest working team in the playoffs.

The Hurricanes have been earning their bounces and making the most of their opportunities

Boston now has to win three of its next four to advance after winning the first five games of the playoffs. Tim Thomas played spectacular in Game 3 and will require more defensive support

If a goalie can make the first save, the least a D-man can do is clear the rebound.

That being said, Boston's offense needs to wake up. After being shutout in Game 2, they were just as lackluster in the third meeting. Marc Savard and Phil Kessel—among others—have to go back to playing in high traffic areas.

It's sad to say that, with the other three playoff matchups going on right now, this might be the most underrated matchup of the postseason.

If anybody has an opportunity—even during the Washington/Pittsburgh intermissions—check out this game and see for yourself.

Game 4 Winner: Boston