The Washington Capitals eliminated the New York Rangers in the first round of the NHL play-offs, which is a surprisingly difficult feat.  Since 1990 the Rangers have been eliminated in the first round only twice before, having advanced 8 times.

On the flip side, the Chicago Blackhawks eliminated the Calgary Flames, who have advanced past the first round only once since their Stanley Cup championship season in 1989.  By being knocked off by Carolina last night, New Jersey kept up with the Flames with their 10th first-round elimination since 1990.  That moves both teams ahead of the Phoenix Coyotes (formerly Winnipeg Jets), who have been eliminated in the first round in all 9 playoff appearances since 1990.

Which team’s fans are most likely to see their teams play hockey in May?  Detroit and Pittsburgh, who just punched their 12th and 10th second-round tickets, respectively.  Here is a list of active NHL franchises (asterisked teams include previous franchises) and their first round won-lost series records 1990-2009.
Detroit 12-6
Pittsburgh 10-4
Colorado* 9-4
New York R 8-3
San Jose 8-4
Montreal 8-5
St. Louis 8-8
New Jersey 8-10
Toronto 7-4
Vancouver 7-5
Dallas 7-5
Buffalo 7-6
Philadelphia 7-6
Edmonton 6-4
Boston 6-8
Anaheim 5-2
Chicago 5-5
Ottawa 5-6
Washington 5-8
Los Angeles 4-4
Carolina* 3-5
Tampa Bay 2-3
Minnesota* 2-4
Florida 1-2
New York I 1-6
Calgary 1-10
Atlanta 0-1
Columbus 0-1
Nashville 0-4
Phoenix* 0-9