Round two of the NHL playoffs got underway tonight with top seeds Montreal and Detroit picking up wins to open the conference semifinals. However, the non-upsets to open things don't mean we don't have an exciting round of hockey ahead. Here are my picks.

Eastern Conference

No. 1 Montreal Canadiens vs. No. 6 Philadelphia Flyers

Montreal had a scare in the first round but was able to prevail. The Flyers squeaked by the Washington Capitals, but I don't think they deserve to be there because they were the beneficiary of several questionable refereeing decisions.

Either way, the Flyers are overmatched and have struggled against the Canadiens this season. I don't see that changing.

My pick: Montreal in five games.

No. 2 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. No. 5 New York Rangers

The Rangers have been one of the hottest teams lately and this is the time to be on a hot streak. The Penguins swept through the Ottawa Senators and had a week off to rest. Pittsburgh might be a little rusty at first, making this a very tight series. I think this will be the best match-up of the round.

My pick: Pittsburgh in seven games.

Western Conference

No. 1 Detroit Red Wings vs. No. 6 Colorado Avalanche

Detroit struggled at times against Nashville, while Colorado struggled against Minnesota at times. This is an old rivalry and most of the players involved are up there in age. The question becomes which old team can stay fresh longer.

My pick: Detroit in six games.

No. 2 San Jose Sharks vs. No. 5 Dallas Stars

San Jose struggled in the first round against Calgary. Dallas defeated the Ducks, last years Stanley Cup Champions, in the first round. The Stars have the edge with a little more rest.

My pick: Stars in six games.