New York Islanders - Pittsburgh Penguins

This is tough one. These two come from a very even division, where all the playoff teams are very, very good. I expect a close game here. Low-scoring. I don't think it will be pretty. But both teams have done a lot better at home than on the road this season, and the Penguins have also done really well against the Islanders during the regular season. Thus, Pittsburgh wins!

Minnesota Wild - Vegas Golden Knights

The Wild. A team that really made a positive impression this season. But they are facing Vegas. A team that looked even sronger. The outcome isn't a given here, but I can't go against the Golden Knights. Vegas wins!

Tampa Bay Lightning - Florida Panthers

This is one of the most amazing matchups in the first round in the playoffs. And there are quite some amazing ones! The battle of Florida begins, and sparks will fly! The Panthers won the last two games of the season, playing against the Bolts. They have won six games in a row, and they have an overall strong record in these meetings. The Lightning on the other hand, get both Kucherov and Stamkos back from injury. Those are quite some additions! But Kucherov hasn't played all season, so how good will he be? Hard to tell. Also, both teams have done better at home than on the road. Sure, this time it's not any long trip for the Bolts, but I think I wouldn't have picked them either way. The Panthers just have a better second half of the season behind them. Florida wins!

Calgary Flames - Vancouver Canucks

So, an already tired Canucks team is now playing back-to-back, while the Flames are rested. Vancouver shouldn't be able to do much here. Calgary wins!

In summary, my winners are:

Pittsburgh Penguins
Vegas Golden Knights
Florida Panthers
Calgary Flames