Who do you like? Eastern Conference Predictions

I'm sure it's fair to assume that those of you reading this blog all like the Buffalo Sabres, and probably like them more right now than any other time in recent memory.  For the sake of this post, I want you to be as unbiased as possible and tell me who you actually like to win the Eastern Conference this year, and give a reason or two why that's your pick. 

 I'll start by saying I love what the Sabres did in the offseason.  Lindy Ruff must have a smile on his face every time he looks at his roster.  I see no glaring reason why Buffalo could not win the East.  Solid scoring, improved defense, and world-class goaltending is usually a pretty good recipe.  However, I'm not going to take Buffalo in the East.  I still think the team is a little soft in the middle, even with the emergence of Luke Adam and the acquisition of Ville Leino.  The team that looks best in my eyes is Tampa Bay.

The Lightning were a game away from the Stanley Cup Finals a year ago, and that was with a first-year coach and general manager.  I think more time for Steve Yzerman to tweak the lineup and another year of experience for Guy Boucher can only benefit a hockey team that was already extremely good.  The Lightning played unbelievable defense throughout most of the playoffs, and showed they have the lockdown ability you like to see from a contender.  That fact, plus the obvious offensive prowess of Steven Stamkos, Vincent Lecavalier, and Martin St Louis makes me confident that they'll make a long run when spring rolls around. 

As a Sabres fan, I hope new captain Jason Pominville becomes the first Buffalo player to hoist the Stanley Cup in June.  I just don't quite think they're ready yet.  Now that my neck is stuck out, give me your pick in the East.