Atlantic Division

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1. Florida Panthers

They have perhaps the best roster in the franchise’s history.

2. Tampa Bay Lightning

Bringing back Steven Stamkos was the only move for them to make.

3. Montreal Canadiens

Shea Weber brings them a new dynamic, but the health of Carey Price is their achilles heel.

4. Ottawa Senators

This young roster is coming together to maybe play for a playoff spot.

5. Boston Bruins

Their depth has taken a hit, but they can be a sneaky good team.

6. Buffalo Sabres

The future is coming together in a hurry, but the division is stacked at the top.

7. Toronto Maple Leafs

For the first time in a while, they have some excitement brewing in Toronto.

8. Detroit Red Wings

This could be a long season for one of the winningest franchise’s in NHL history. Continue reading

Metropolitan Division

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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