Predictions for 2007
Sure it’s almost summer, but it’s not too early to break out my predictions for the upcoming sports seasons, some will be easier to pick at this point (NHL and NBA) and others not so much. Let’s get to it…
NHL Playoffs
I was pleasantly surprised with how the Detroit Red Wings finished. They battled hard against three physical foes; Calgary Flames; San Jose Sharks; and the Anaheim Ducks but fell short of their goal of the Stanley Cup. A nice foundation has been built to continue rebuilding while trying to win championships and I consider the Wings as one of the early favorites for the Cup next year, especially if Dominik Hasek returns in goal. The Dominator posted one of his best seasons ever in leading the Wings to the Western Final.
Cup Prediction: Ottawa Senators over Anaheim Ducks.
NBA Playoffs
The Chicago Bulls put a little scare into the Detroit Pistons but I think ultimately they will reach the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs. I know, I know, not the most exciting Finals, but it will be two great defensive teams who play unselfish basketball and do the dirty work it takes to win. I don’t think the Cleveland Cavaliers or Utah Jazz are tough enough to knock either of them off.
Finals Prediction: Detroit Pistons over San Antonio Spurs.
MLB
I love the Detroit Tigers, always have, always will. That’s not the only reason I think they will repeat as A.L. Champions, but it’s part of it! I love the addition of Gary Sheffield and the re-emergence of Magglio Ordonez as a feared hitter! I love Jim Leyland, one of the greatest managers in the game. You can see the theme, I love this team. Sure they have some dents in the armor, the bullpen, no left-handed power, and no Kenny Rogers or Joel Zumaya for most of the year, but I don’t think it will matter. The Boston Red Sox are good, but not good enough to stop the Tigers this year!
World Series Prediction: Detroit Tigers over New York Mets.
NFL
My beloved Detroit Lions are headed in the right direction. I really believe that. I think Rod Marinelli is the perfect coach for the Lions. He’s tough and it’s his way or the highway, something the Lions have needed for a long time. I know the defense isn’t great, but that offense is going to be fun to watch. I am not crazy enough to pick the Lions in the Super Bowl, but I do think they can contend for the division with the Chicago Bears and challenge for a playoff spot. The AFC is going to come down to the San Diego Chargers, Indianapolis Colts or the New England Patriots. Of those three I think San Diego is the best team, but I just don’t see them topping either of the other two in the playoffs.
Super Bowl Prediction: New England Patriots over New Orleans Saints.
