Vegas in seven. People have been waiting for this team to fall off since the franchise started, and they keep ending up in big games.

I thought Colorado would be here, but since they are not, I am picking Carolina. They seem to have the right balance between defense and scoring.

Hurricanes in seven. This is the deepest Carolina team I have seen in years. They are getting contributions from every line and look like a team that learned from past playoff exits.

I am taking Vegas in six. Carolina has been incredible, but Vegas has more experience in these high-pressure moments. When a series gets tight late, I trust their veteran group a little more.