NHL Stanley Cup: Eastern Conference First Round Predictions

We love National Hockey League postseason play as it is the most thrilling playoff action in North American pro sports. That was on display last night as two of the three games needed extra time to crown a winner.

Tonight, Eastern Conference action takes center stage as the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Boston Bruins and New York Islanders vs. Pittsburgh Penguins games highlight the NHL playoff schedule on Wednesday, May 1, 2013.

Leafs vs. Bruins: Original Six teams battle in the East

For the first time since the 2003-04 season, fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs get to cheer for their home town hero’s in NHL postseason action. How long the celebration is going to last is anyone’s guess as the Leafs playoff history against Boston is marked with loses. Though it’s ancient history, the Bruins have won 12 of the last 13 playoff games against the Leafs. Boston won the season series 3-1 but the games were closely contended as three contests were decided by just one goal.

Islanders vs Penguins: New York draws tough first round opponent

Back in the playoffs for the first time since the 2006-07 season, the New York Islanders face the top chalk to win the Stanley Cup when they head into Pittsburgh to battle the Penguins tonight. The young Islanders are in tough against a stacked Penguins club as New York was swept 4-0 during the NHL regular season – by a combined 16-5 count. Our betting dough is on the Bruins (-175 ML) and the Penguins (-260 ML) at the bovada.lv online sports wagering website tonight.

Eastern Conference First Round Playoff Odds and Sportsbook Review Predictions

Boston Bruins with the -220 ML series price

Pittsburgh Penguins with the -450 ML series price

Montreal Canadiens with the -150  ML series price

New York Rangers with the -115 ML series price