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In this edition of the hotstove we share our power rankings of the league's best teams. Record is a factor, obviously, but strength of schedule, underlying numbers, etc. all factor into the rankings.
Todd Cordell
1. Tampa Bay Lightning (5-1-0)
They're averaging a league-leading four goals per game and their only loss was in a game they dominated but lost due to an off night by Ben Bishop. This team is for real.
2. Los Angeles Kings (3-3-0)
They have won three straight games after a slow start. They've been absolutely dominant at 5 v 5 controlling ~58% of the shot attempts and scoring chances, both good for 1st in the league. If the goaltending holds up they're going to be excellent once again.
3. San Jose Sharks (4-3-0)
They have played some fantastic hockey to start the season. If they continue to generate chances at the rate they have thus far they're going to win a ton of games again this season.
4. Edmonton Oilers (6-1-0)
They are not as good as their record indicates but they're playing teams pretty even at 5 v 5. When you have Connor McDavid and good goaltending that can be enough.
5. Montreal Canadiens (6-0-1)
Their shooting percentage, and save percentage, is unsustainably high but it's tough to argue with a 6-0-1 record. Carey Price will keep this team in every game.
Peter Tessier
Everything in moderation including moderation, so here are this weeks power rankings.
#5 Minnesota Wild- I want to believe Bruce Boudreau is this good I do but it's still the Wild give it time.
#4 New York Rangers- everyone wants to count them down and out but as long as Lundqvist can play they have a shot.
#3 Edmonton Oilers- here come the Oilers but they're going up. What a problem child Hall must have been huh? Or maybe goaltending and McDavid do make that much of a difference.
#2 Tampa Bay Lightning- I want them as number 1 really but there's reason why they aren't.
#1 Montreal Canadiens it will be an amazing experience to see the mighty fall again. It's going to happen so you get number one Habs fans because the tumble will only gain speed the higher up you start.
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Stanley Cup predictions
Predicting the Metro Division standings
Predicting the Atlantic Division standings
Predicting the Pacific Division standings
Predicting the Central Division standings
Predicting disappointment teams
Predicting surprise teams
Metro Division bold predictions
Atlantic Division bold predictions
Pacific Division bold predictions
Central Division bold predictions
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