Michael Stuart: The "South-Least" Just Got a Whole Lot Better
- Michael_Stuart
South-east, on paper at least, is still the weakest overall division in hockey. While I think all of the teams got better, it's not really saying much when just about every team has gotten better.
Again, it's hard to say without seeing teams play. I'd actually probably put the South-East in close contention with the Pacific if were talking just how teams look on paper.
If Lindback raises his game, the Lighting could end up winning the division. Granted, that's a big step. He's an excellent goalie, but no ones going to really know how good he can be until he's given consistent playing time. I still think the D is weak despite the additions, but at least now the puck moving element is there to help the offense. It was inconsistent before. Now, the entire back-end is mobile. While their not stalwarts, moving the puck effectively out of your zone means the puck is in fact not in your zone. Again, if Lindback is good, that team could be scary.
Carolina? Yea. Might have the best top six in hockey. I don't even know how arguable that is, if at all. Cam Ward is Cam Ward.
Panthers have only gotten better, and they almost knocked off the Devils. Not the scariest team on paper, but they have developed a winning attitude and are very, very well coached. Throw in Huberdeau who's been NHL ready since his draft, and that team is going to be a problem. Goaltending-shmoletending, if you can't win games with a trio of Theodore/Clemmenson/Markstrom, you have other more important problems.
Winnipeg added the only thing the team truly needed: a veteran center. If Scheifle officially makes the jump and looks even better than last year, this team is going to be damn good.
The Capitals are the Capitals, hardly requires an explanation. I will say that if Holtby plays the way we've all seen his capable, the division is probably theres. This team has needed consistent goaltending for awhile, and they might have finally found it.
