By Lance McCaskey

Staff Writer

Tomorrow marks the beginning of the third round of the NHL playoffs, and it marks the beginning of my road to redemption. Last round, I went a stunning zero for four on my picks. This is a new round, I have a source in my friend Carlos Scott who claims to know what he’s doing, and I am ready to redeem myself, and prove I know what I am doing here.

Western Conference Finals

Phoenix Coyotes vs. Los Angeles Kings

Last round, both teams shocked me with great performances, and proved they deserve to be here. Both teams also happen to be in the same division as my team, the Stars, proving that had the Stars been in a different division, they might still be playing. The Kings are a buzz saw, as my dad likes to put it, and are currently on an eight to one playoff run. The Coyotes, however, are better on paper. They have better defense, better offense, better special teams, and only fall short in the goaltending department. That being said, the Kings are a buzz saw. The Kings will continue to find a way to win games any way they can, just as they have throughout these playoffs. The Kings win in five games.

Winner: Kings in Five

Eastern Conference Finals

New York Rangers vs. New Jersey Devils

To tell you the truth, I did not think either of these teams would make it this far. They have both been disappointing, and have shown me little that has impressed me. Neither have very complicated systems, and both play strong, physical, defensive hockey that makes for low scoring, high intensity hockey. I haven’t had much success in the East so far, but my informant Carlos Scott is adimant that the Devils will pull through. I will go with him on this one, as it is truly a toss up.

Winner: Devils in Six

Well friends, here’s to hoping that I have more success this round. But let’s be honest, I will take any success I can get at this point. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the greatness of playoff hockey.