All teams had their first game of the 2018 NHL Playoffs. In typical playoff fashion there were a few surprises which make for an exciting post season. As they say, it doesn't matter what you did during the regular season, the playoffs are a whole different beast. Hope your team is doing well so far.
Devils vs. Lightning - The Lightning took control of this game early and never relinquished the lead. Both teams were nearly equal in shots, hits and blocks but what mattered were the biscuits in the basket. Lightning took the first game 5-2. I picked this series to go the distance due to a solid March for the Devils but so far we aren't seeing it.
Maple Leafs vs. Bruins - Bruins took the first game of their series 5-1. Both teams traded off a first period goal but the Bruins became too much for the Leafs in the second and third. Leafs got into penalty trouble and paid for it. I think this is how this series is going to go with the Bruins frustrating the Leafs out of the playoffs.
Blue Jackets vs. Capitals - The Caps started the scoring late in the first period with 2 power play goals but the Blue Jackets didn't let that deter them from battling back. The Artemi Panarin streaked into the zone lifting a shot to the opposite top corner of the net to give the Blue Jackets a 4-3 win in overtime. Both of these teams seem evenly matched and it's going to be a great battle.
Avalanche vs. Predators - Both teams evened out in the first two periods with 2 goals each. The Predators turned it on in the third period with 3 unanswered goals. Goals aside the teams were fairly evenly matched. I know the Predators are the stronger of the two teams but the Avalanche may give them a run for their money. Predators won 5-2.
Sharks vs. Ducks - The battle for California! Unfortunately, the Sharks only need to put up 3 goals in the second period to put this one away. Superb goaltending by Martin Jones made for a frustrating night for the Ducks who fell 3-0 in the first game of their match up. I'm looking for the Ducks to make some adjustments and make this a series.