bviously, the Blackhawks dominated the shortened season. They are the favorites in the West to reach the cup. But, as the Kings proved last year (winning the cup as an 8th seed and being dominant in doing so), hockey playoffs are year to year wide open. The top seeds often come up short. The East is a crap shoot...The Rangers are a 6th seed and by many accounts were a heavy pre-season pick to win it all. I wouldn't be shocked if any of the 7 teams (I would be shocked if the Islanders made it to the cup) came out of the East.  

But predictions are fun (and sure to go wrong). So here goes nothing: I like the Blues in the West and the Capitals in the East. (and of course both can easily loose in the first round!