Third Round Predictions

Tampa Bay Lightning (1) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (3)

Tampa Bay has played only one game more than the minimum up to this point which would indicate they are very well rested. The concern, however, with this type of a situation, especially when playing a team like the Flyers who just finished a very hard fought and intense series, is that the extra rest time will cause a team to become sloppy. It is unlikely that Coach John Tortorella let his Lightning become too relaxed during their break as he settles for nothing but hard work. Despite the Flyers’ size look for the Lightning’s speed to win the series for them in six games.

San Jose Sharks (2) vs. Calgary Flames (6)

Both teams are in the midst of seasons that have wildly exceeded all expectations. This will have to continue for one of these teams and quite likely it will be the Calgary Flames. The Flames have knocked off two very strong opponents in Vancouver and Detroit with both series going very long. They have learned to play under pressure and have received contributions throughout their lineup. Miikka Kiprusoff has been simply remarkable for the Flames all throughout the playoffs. In the final two games of the Detroit series he posted two 1-0 wins for the Flames, one of which went deep into overtime. The Flames are a hungry team and as Vancouver and Detroit will definitely attest to; the Flames are like a pest that just will not go away. Look for the Flames to win in seven games.