Just as important is the Sabres' collection of savvy forwards. Although the Sabres were viewed last season as Hasek and a bunch of overachievers, take a look at their lineup. Their third line is Chris Gratton, Geoff Sanderson and Stu Barnes. That's a pretty dangerous third line. As if Philadelphia sports talk radio doesn't already have enough to talk about, the Flyers' first-round ouster will provide a summer full of subject matter.
Sabres win in six games.
Don't mistake this Capitals team for the Washington squad that reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 1998. This one is much better. At 37, Adam Oates has experienced a style metamorphosis. He has become a better all-around player. Meanwhile, Chris Simon has made the transition from tough guy to true power forward.