every second round matchup looks to be great.
The Capitals have one all but 9 of 10 series against the Penguins. That doesn't make me feel any better, though, because the Capitals are always a great team. What would the Penguins have as a reward for winning that grueling series? Playing either Tampa or Boston... whoopee. /s
TBL vs BOS... fuck. I can't stand BOS so I guess I'm rooting for TBL. Neither are a bad team.
I don't know what to think between NSH and WPG. Nashville just came off of a SCF appearance, WPG is an up-and-comer finally getting it going after the move from Atlanta. I'm sure it will be good.
The VGK and SJS series will be exciting. VGK in their record-smashing inaugural season and SJS having just been in the SCF two years ago both just came off first round sweeps. Neither team has lost a playoff game yet this year. They didn't have bad opponents, either! I'm pulling for VGK because I love Fleury and they are the ultimate underdogs. VGK winning makes them a new villain in the west and everyone loves a good heel.
I've always like the Sharks, but I think I'm rooting for Vegas, mainly for Haula and Tuch (I'm a Wild fan, and was bummed to see those two leave).
I think Winnipeg's physicality will be limited because the Preds play a lot faster and with far better passing and puck possession than the Wild. That one might come down to goaltending, because I think it may be a shootout.
I don't like either Boston or the Pens (sorry), so by default I'm rooting for the Lightning and Capitals, but honestly, it would be cool to see the Penguins advance and keep the threepeat dreams alive. The way Crosby and Guentzel are playing...I don't know if anyone can stop them.
I knew it was too good to be true when Toronto forced a game 7.
Even though I like neither team, the Bruins/Lightning should be a good series. Actually, every second round matchup looks to be great.