Eastern Conference Quarterfinals: Montreal v. Boston

You know what? I'm already happy. Typing 'Montreal v. Boston' and knowing that it refers to the postseason has officially given me a warm fuzzy...

I'm sure the media is going to make note (and rightfully so) of how clearly the Habs handled Boston this year. 8-0 (or whatever it was) is a pretty dominant showing. I'm also guessing that, if people are going to pick a sweep in the 1st round, it's going to be either this series or the 1-8 matchup in the west. While I certainly think Montreal is going to win this series, I do think a couple of factors are going to give Boston a chance...

1. Tim Thomas. Maddeningly inconsistent at times he's played well enough on occasion to convince me that he could steal a game or two from Montreal. Especially if Price falters a bit (hey, he's been great but he is a rookie after all) than Thomas could be solid enough to stretch the series to 6 or 7.

2. Discipline. Much has been and will be made about how terrific the Habs powerplay has been this season. If the B's put themselves in the box frequently look for this to be a short series. If the Bruins, especially the less experienced ones, can maintain a level head and show some discipline against the speedy Habs forwards then I think they have a chance to make the series interesting.

With this being said, however, I think the Habs are playing too well and with too much confidence to lose this series. I think Price will step up and play well or, at least, well enough to get Montreal to the next round.