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In this edition of the hotstove, we share our power rankings for the top-5 teams in hockey. This takes into account record, quality of roster, underlying numbers, strength of schedule and more.
Todd Cordell
1. Washington Capitals (44-17-4)
The Caps just struggled through a terrible road trip but they still lead the league in wins, points and goal differential. Every team hits a bump in the road at some point so I'm not too worried about them. They'll right the ship before the playoffs.
2. Pittsburgh Penguins (43-16-8)
They're missing Patric Hornqvist, Bryan Rust and half their defense core yet they continue to pile up the wins. I'll be really impressed if the Pens can snap the Flames' nine-game winning streak without so many important players.
3. Calgary Flames (38-26-4)
Goaltending held the Flames back for much of the year but that's no longer the case as Brian Elliott has allowed two goals or fewer in nine of his last 10 starts. It's no coincidence the wins are piling up as a result.
4. Minnesota Wild (43-18-6)
They've played some good hockey in that stretch and haven't necessarily been rewarded for their efforts. Their last game against Chicago is a perfect example of that.
5. Columbus Blue Jackets (43-18-6)
This team is fast, skilled, physical and can give any team a run for their money regardless of the playing style. It's a tragedy the Jackets are going to win 50 games and likely get Pittsburgh or Washington in the 1st round of the playoffs.
Peter Tessier
As we edge into the home stretch before the post season guess who's getting hot again?
1. Blackhawks 8-2-0 in last ten with a big win over division rival Minnesota yesterday, rounding into playoff form?
2. Flames are 9-0-1 in last 10 and thoroughly outclassed the Jets on Saturday. The defence looks tight and they are the last team anyone should want to play in the first round.
3. Montreal, 8-2-0 in last ten with a convincing win over the Oilers. Claude Julien is having an effect already but can it last?
4. Senators, 8-2-0 in last ten with 6 wins in a row. This is not a team that looked like it would hold onto anything and now?? It's all bout Burrows, right?
5. Penguins 7-3-0 . I was going to give the Sharks some love here but I have a hard time not including the waddling birds because they are the defending champs. Hope that 4 game suspension to Sestito does not hurt them too much.
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