1. Montreal Canadiens

As long as Carey Price remains in net, they will remain atop the division.

2. Toronto Maple Leafs

The young core is getting better at a rapid pace.

3. Tampa Bay Lightning

With the return of Steven Stamkos, Tampa has their sights set on a Cup run.

4. Ottawa Senators

Their playoff run last year was something to marvel. Time to see if they can go further.

5. Boston Bruins

The youth movement has begun in Boston.

6. Buffalo Sabres

Another head coaching change means the Sabres have to get on track quickly.

7. Florida Panthers

A disappointing season means lower expectations, which could bode well for this young, but talented group.

8. Detroit Red Wings

Moving into a new arena always brings optimism, but it will be hard to overlook their flaws.

Head Coach: Claude Julien

Key Position: Defensemen

Key Acquisitions: F Jonathan Drouin (Tampa Bay), D Karl Alzner (Washington), D David Schlemko (San Jose), D Mark Streit (Pittsburgh)

Head Coach: Mike Babcock

Key Position: Forwards

Key Acquisitions: F Patrick Marleau (San Jose), D Ron Hainsey (Pittsburgh)

Head Coach: Jon Cooper

Key Position: Forwards

Key Acquisitions: F Chris Kunitz (Pittsburgh), D Dan Girardi (NY Rangers)

Head Coach: Guy Boucher

Key Position: Goaltender

Key Acquisitions: F Nate Thompson (Anaheim)

Head Coach: Bruce Cassidy (Interim)

Key Position: Forwards

Key Acquisitions: None

Head Coach: Phil Housley (Nashville)

Key Position: Defensemen

Key Acquisitions: F Jason Pominville (Minnesota), D Marco Scandella (Minnesota), D Nathan Beaulieu (Montreal)

Head Coach: Bob Boughner (San Jose)

Key Position: Forwards

Key Acquisitions: F Radim Vrbata (Arizona)

Head Coach: Jeff Blashill

Key Position: Defensemen

Key Acquisitions: D Trevor Daley (Pittsburgh)