Big news for the NY Rangers: Mike Sullivan is the new head coach. Less than a week after he left Pittsburgh, GM Chris Drury jumped on him.

There were some wild games in round 1. Winnipeg and Dallas barely won, both having history making comebacks.

Vegas was the favorite to win, and they wore Minnesota out (who have the same historic problem as Toronto: can’t make it through round 1).

I was sure LA would slay their demon this year and Edmonton put a boot on that idea…LA had a suss coaching decision for calling goalie interference that likely cost them a game, killing the momentum they had.

Toronto had some hair raising issues but ended up taking care of business. They were the better team, so if Ottawa beat them, odds are they would have been dismantled.

I thought the Florida series would be competitive, but the Panthers put their flag in the ground, showing why they are expected to repeat.

The Washington series was fun to watch, and the result was expected. Montreal has a bright future.

Too many injuries killed NJ. Pretty easy for Carolina. Expected.

Winnipeg v Dallas: I’d like WPG, but who knows? It should be intense and go at least 6.

Vegas v Edmonton: VGS is the better team, but EDM has a killer spirit. I think VGS will be as physical as possible to win, try to run them into the ground. EDM in 7, if no major injuries.

Toronto v Florida: FL in 5. Half of the games will probably be close in goals.

Washington vs Carolina: Toss up. CAR is faster. WSH can be meaner. Likely a goalie and coaching fight. CAR in 7.