1. Pittsburgh Penguins

Their depth is unmatched in a tough division.

2. Washington Capitals

A little roster shakeup might be just what they needed.

3. New York Rangers

So goes Henrik in net, so goes the Rangers Cup chances.

4. Columbus Blue Jackets

Their quick rise in the division was no fluke and having the reigning Vezina trophy winner proves that.

5. New York Islanders

It would be amazing if they didn’t retain their captain John Tavares at some point this year.

6. Carolina Hurricanes

Having a different full-time net-minder will go a long way in changing their fortunes.

7. Philadelphia Flyers

The top six forwards are solid, but their blue line and goaltender situation is a bit in flux.

8. New Jersey Devils

While they shouldn’t be the worst team in the conference, there will be growing pains along the way. Continue reading →

1. Washington Capitals

Having the best record once again isn’t out of the question for them.

2. Pittsburgh Penguins

Health and deciding on a goaltender are their two concerns for repeating as Cup champions.

3. New York Islanders

Their depth is almost unmatched in a deep division.

4. New York Rangers

A solid veteran group that will keep them in the Cup conversation.

5. Philadelphia Flyers

Staying relatively quiet in the offseason they won’t surprise anyone this year.

6. New Jersey Devils

Making a big splash and acquiring Taylor Hall is a good start for the offensive upgrade.

7. Columbus Blue Jackets

The direction of the franchise has flatlined somewhat.

8. Carolina Hurricanes

Their top 6 forwards are solid. Who will be the stalwart on the blue line? Continue reading →

1. New York Rangers

A few roster tweaks still has them atop the Eastern Conference.

2. Washington Capitals

The team is buying in to what head coach Barry Trotz is selling.

3. New York Islanders

They’ll have a new home and a new fire to get back into the playoffs.

4. Pittsburgh Penguins

Adding another top tier scorer keeps them in contention.

5. Columbus Blue Jackets

The grittiest team in the division always seems to find a way.

6. Philadelphia Flyers

Their looking for a new identity after another head coaching change.

7. New Jersey Devils

A new era is beginning and there are some encouraging signs.

8. Carolina Hurricanes

They have yet to find a franchise cog in net for quite some time. Continue reading →