Factoring in the season-to-date, recent form and post deadline rosters, we share our thoughts on which team is best inside the Metro Division.
Todd Cordell
I have to go with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
I know they’ve really hit a wall of late – losing to LA, San Jose and Anaheim in consecutive games *this season* is rather embarrassing – but I’m still high on their chances when the playoffs begin.
They have the superstars and, in my opinion, the supporting cast is as strong as it has been in years. There is a reason they’re contending for a division title despite an almost unfathomable amount of injuries to key players.
The only thing I really don’t like is the adamence to have Jack Johnson neutering Kris Letang on the top pairing, although that shouldn’t be an issue when Brian Dumoulin and/or John Marino return – which could be very soon.
What I love about the Penguins is the balance. There is obviously the elite offensive talent to score goals in bunches. Once they get healthier, the Pens will also be one of the best defensive sides in the NHL. They can excel in any style of game.
I put them just a peg ahead of Philadelphia and Washington, especially if the latter starts Braden Holtby over Ilya Samsonov when the games matter most.
James Tanner The Metro division is an interesting one because five teams seem likely to make the playoffs. Of those give teams, I think there's very little to choose from between the Flyers, Capitals and Penguins.......all three teams have practically the same record and the same team stats (Corsi, scoring chances, expected goals etc). They even have practically the same 5v5 save percentages.........they are three good teams, but given that the Penguins added Zucker at the deadline, a player who can be a significant first-line level contributor, I think they're now the best team. I don't really consider adding Sheary or Marleau to be effective additions, but the Zucker trade was a home run. Three similar teams, with the edge going to the Penguins for the best add.
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