Got a new poll up (see the sidebar) about predictions pertaining to this series.

Here’s the schedule:

ESPN is calling this for Tampa in Seven.

Given the Devils’ injury problems and the attendant paucity of scoring, it might not matter that the Lightning have the worst penalty-killing record of any playoff team. Everyone says goaltending trumps scoring in the playoffs. We take the contrary view here and like the Lightning’s superior offense to carry the day.

That’s a far cry from 2003-04 when they were looking for every Lightning opponent to ultimately win the series (the Islanders, the Habs, the Flyers…)

Bolts Blog has a rundown and prediction thread for the entire Eastern Conference up

Giving props (and adding to the blogroll) to Chris over at the (should-have-discovered-it-already) Cathode Rays and Power Plays blog — he’s got a first-round preview posted as well.

On a side note, the Hart Trophy poll is still alive. Please just go to the post to vote. You can also see all ongoing results at the Poll Results Page.

….The Blackhawks won the NHL draft lottery.

I have the distinctive feeling we’re heading for the biggest holdout of a first round pick since Lindros. Or the biggest failure of a #1 pick since Alexander Daigle, with thanks to Chicago’s Wirtzy reputation of being where the NHL goes to die.