For the past ten years the Detroit Red Wings and the Colorado Avalanche have had one of the most heated rivalries in hockey. And although in recent years they have taken back seat to the Pittsburgh-Philadelphia battles, this playoff match-up may just be the spark to reignite the ill will. Colorado advanced after getting past the Minnesota Wild in just six games. The Red Wings looked to be in trouble when Nashville came back from being down 2 games, winning games 3 and 4. However with the switch in net, Hasek out, Osgood in, the wheels are once again moving in the playoff machine. The Wings finished with a league best record, but after some disappointing playoff showings over the past few years, there is definitely a cautious approach to this post-season.

Colorado became real contenders in the West when they scored Peter Forsberg in February. They are sending a better team to the ice than their record may suggest. However I think they Red Wings will be able to ride Osgood and their solid defense through another round. Though they aren't clicking like clockwork right now, and in less they get things together I have a hard time seeing them in the Stanley Cup series. But that's later. Now the Wings will take the Avalanche in 5.