The Stanley Cup playoffs kick off tonight! First out are the Bruins and the Caps! 

Boston Bruins - Washington Capitals 

This one is really hard to call. Two very evenly matched teams. Two very good teams. Two teams that are strong both at home and on the road. But the Capitals are built for playoff hockey. With so little to choose between them, I'll let that decide. Washington wins! 

We also have a relur seasong game before that. The last one that could have any impact whatsoever on the playoffs! 

Vancouver Canucks - Edmonton Oilers 

The Oilers will pass Boston in the total standings if they win this one. That would impact the seeding for the semi finals, if they both make it there. I doubt that Edmonton cares too much about that though. But I do think they want to enter the playoffs with a win in their backpack. And I think the Canucks are so spent by now, that they are fairly easy for the Oilers to beat. Edmonton wins! 

In summary, my winners are: 

Washington Capitals 
Edmonton Oilers