|
Which team will fall short in the Eastern Conference Wild Card race? |
|
|
|
Follow me on Twitter @ToddCordell
In this edition of the hotstove, we discuss which of the three teams – Columbus, New Jersey, and Florida – realistically battling for the final two playoff spots in the Eastern Conference will fall short.
Todd Cordell
I think it'll come down to the wire but I have to say New Jersey.
Led by Seth Jones, who is playing at a ridiculously high level right now, the Blue Jackets finally seem to be hitting their stride having won eight of 11 and out-scored opponents by 10 during that stretch.
Florida's top two lines are dominating on a nightly basis and, after an 8-1-1 run, they lead the three teams in points percentage.
New Jersey isn't getting secondary scoring right now, their starting goaltender has posted a .900 save percentage or worse in 10 consecutive games, and they have a tough schedule littered with road games and playoff teams.
The Devils have been a great story and I'd love nothing more than to see Taylor Hall get into the playoffs. I think they'll fall just short, though.
Peter Tessier
As great as Florida has been for the last two months to climb back into the race I don't believe that they can sustain the rate necessary to get in. It would seem the Panthers need to go 10-5 or 12-3 to keep pace with the teams ahead of them. While they are only 3 points back and have 2 games in hand on the Devils they will still need a hell of a run.
It's not impossible but is it likely? I'm thinking they had a good run but fade back now.
Recent posts
Most overused defenseman in the NHL?
Most overused forward in the NHL?
Best pairing in the Western Conference?
Best pairing in the Eastern Conference?
Best line in the Western Conference?
Best line in the Eastern Conference?