NHL Playoffs 2015: Schedule, Odds and Predictions for Friday's Round 1 Games

If the pace that was set on Wednesday is any indication of how Friday's NHL playoff games will go, fans should buckle up for a wild ride. All but one of the Game 1 contests from Wednesday were decided by one goal. As the series head into Game 2, things should remain tight.

Here's a look at Friday's schedule, predictions and odds. Just below the table is a closer look at two of the day's most compelling games.

Matchups	TV	Odds	Prediction
Ottawa at Montreal	CNBC	Montreal (-1.5)	Ottawa
Chicago at Nashville	NBCSN	Nashville (-1.5)	Chicago
New York Islanders at Washington	NBCSN	Washington (-1.5)	Washington
Calgary at Vancouver	CNBC	Vancouver (-1.5)	Vancouver

Chicago Will Continue Momentum From Game 1

Matt Slocum/Associated Press

Things looked bleak for the Chicago Blackhawks in Game 1. They were down 3-0 against the Nashville Predators after the first period, but the Blackhawks didn't give up. They rebounded with three unanswered goals in the second period to draw even.

Defenseman Duncan Keith talked about climbing out of the hole. Per Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune, Keith said: “It was probably the worst it could get, down 3-0. We knew that we had nowhere to go but up. We know in the playoffs a lot can change. You get a couple of goals and you’re right back in it.”

In the second overtime, it was Keith who came up with the game-winning goal that pushed the Blackhawks to a big win on the road. The returning Patrick Kane wasn't himself in Game 1, but he figures to be a bit more acclimated in Game 2.

That'll be bad news for the Preds. Chicago looked out of sync early, but it showed it was the more talented team with better chemistry in the final four periods of the game.

It seized momentum with the come-from-behind win and will continue to grab even more command of the series on Friday.

The Caps Will Even the Series

Alex Brandon/Associated Press

In many areas, the Washington Capitals outplayed the New York Islanders. The Caps outhit their opponents and won 16 more faceoffs. Unfortunately, discipline and puck control was an issue.

Washington had 11 giveaways. Against the Islanders' efficient offense, that's something that won't fly. Washington should have things tightened up for Game 1.

Washington and New York had two wins apiece in what proved to be a series of tight games during the regular season. Ultimately, this playoff series will be contested in the same manner. Washington will rebound with a better performance and a win.