I like Ray Emery to shut down his former team...

This is the part where I pretend to be some sort of “expert” and convince you all that I know what I’m talking about. However, these are all speculative and I am only an expert if the replay dictates that I am.

Obligatory Andy Sutton video:

Now for my picks which I divulged via my twitter account earlier tonight:

My NHL Predictions for tonight are as follows…

— Chris Lund (@THEChrisLund) January 5, 2012

BOS 4 – CAL 1; NYR 4 – FLA 3; CHI 4 – PHI 2; TOR 3 – WIN 2; OTT 4 – TB 2; STL 3 – EDM 1; NSH 4 – DAL 2; PHX 3 – LA 2; SJ 5 – CLB 2. #NHL

— Chris Lund (@THEChrisLund) January 5, 2012

Some quick thoughts to explain my rationale:

- I think Leland Irving is in for a rough ride and the Flames won’t have a clue how to beat Tuukka Rask IN Boston no less.
- Marty Biron vs. Scott Clemmensen means lots of goals though I like the Rangers because they’ve been invincible at MSG.
- Bryzgalov returns to goal for the Flyers. I think he plays well but the ‘Hawks are just way too hot.
- The Jets are pitiful on the road. I think Chris Mason holds the fort but can’t keep Kessel & Co. out for a full 60.
- Dwayne Roloson + road game = tough night for Tampa. Ottawa has been a tough matchup at home this year for some reason.
- The Oilers are struggling, ‘The Nuge’ is out and Jaroslav Halak is on fire.
- Kari Lehtonen didn’t look great in his first game back from injury, I suspect he needs another game or two to shake the rust off.
- Mike Smith has been good against the Kings this season and the Coyotes are a very good road team.
- San Jose is very good, Columbus is not.

Now we watch.