Metropolitan Division

Standard

1. New York Rangers

With a failed Stanley Cup run the Rangers are still loaded for another shot.

2. Pittsburgh Penguins

A bitter playoff exit forced them to do some house cleaning. They still have a talented roster though.

3. Columbus Blue Jackets

Last years surprise playoff appearance should make them better this year.

4. Philadelphia Flyers

They proved that with a suspect goalie in net they can still beat a Cup contender.

5. Washington Capitals

Time could be running out for the Capitals to make a run at the Cup with its current core.

6. New York Islanders

They could peak this year, but with a stacked division it might not be until next year.

7. New Jersey Devils

It will be strange not seeing Martin Brodeur in net for them.

8. Carolina Hurricanes

Too many questions on the blue line and in net to amount to any reasonable success. Continue reading →

Atlantic Division

Standard

1. Boston Bruins

Defense has led to success in the past and should do wonders this year.

2. Montreal Canadiens

They always seem to be so close the last few years. Maybe this year will be different?

3. Tampa Bay Lightning

The moves they made for the defensive unit will help immensely.

4. Detroit Red Wings

Not a lot of scoring options, but that didn’t deter them in the past.

5. Toronto Maple Leafs

Like Montreal, Toronto fans have been wanting a winner for some time now.

6. Ottawa Senators

The franchise is paving the way for the future and it does look bright.

7. Florida Panthers

A few veteran additions should help build a solid young core.

8. Buffalo Sabres

Last year was rough, but the Sabres do have some assets to build on. Continue reading →

Central Division

Standard

1. Chicago Blackhawks

With a stacked roster they should remain Cup contenders.

2. Colorado Avalanche

The surprise of the league last year they’ll have to build on that success.

3. St. Louis Blues

The problem wasn’t in net, it was up front with the top scoring lines.

4. Dallas Stars

Be prepared for a Hart Trophy like season from Tyler Seguin.

5. Minnesota Wild

Getting Vanek might be the final piece to the puzzle.

6. Winnipeg Jets

A loyal fan base will have to wait another year for a playoff spot.

7. Nashville Predators

With a new coach in place for the first time in franchise history, there will be a learning curve. Continue reading →

Pacific Division

Standard

1. Anaheim Ducks

Getting Kesler should put the Ducks right at the level the rival Kings are at.

2. Los Angeles Kings

Keeping Gaborik long-term will help in the Kings title defense.

3. San Jose Sharks

A few shakeups on the roster puts the emphasis on winning now.

4. Vancouver Canucks

How much Ryan Miller has left will determine the Canucks success.

5. Arizona Coyotes

A new branding isn’t the only thing the Coyotes want to change.

6. Edmonton Oilers

With a stacked division in front of them it might be another year for the breakout season.

7. Calgary Flames

Being in rebuilding mode the Flames are still looking for an identity. Continue reading →