Ah...predictions...
There is still so much to go down in training camps and we also still have players awaiting their final destination, but I got into a pretty good debate this morning with a hockey person I truly respect...In this debate I made an argument that the best division in hockey isn't even close right now...it is the Central.
And then I started thinking about how hard this division will be to predict this coming season....Of course this could all change by the time we start the season...but here are my early thoughts:
First off...there is NO division in hockey that can boast 7 LEGIT contenders...In fact, if you put any one of these teams in any of the other divisions they would almost all be assured of a playoff spot... That much is certain.
Consider how six of the 7 finished with 92 points or more....only Chicago, yes Chicago, finished below 90.
And if the Hawks had a healthy Crawford all year I am almost certain they make the playoffs.
When predicting this division you could almost just throw all the teams in a hat.
But here goes nothing...
My thoughts:
#7. Colorado
The Avalanche had a great rebound and made the playoffs last year...They will be close to the 90 point mark again, but I am not convinced they can maintain the same level again...But then again...Avs fans saw last year as just the beginning...
#6. Dallas
How can a team with Seguin and Benn miss the playoffs again? It is still possible they add Erik Karlsson remember...
#5. Minnesota
The Wild didn't make many moves this summer and are in danger of the old adage, "If you are standing still you are moving backwards." That said, they are so well stocked from within.
#4. Chicago.
I can't help but think the Hawks are due for a resurgence...They have some really good young players who are coming into their own and their stars are still in their prime... They will also be out for revenge.
#3. Winnipeg
The Jets are a force...Wheeler will have another monster year...They could win it all from the third spot in this division...
#2. Nashville
The Preds came one game away from what could have been winning it all.. Saros will be a factor during the regular season...You also have to know Pekka Rinne responds well to adversity...If the Preds get ANYTHING from Kyle Turris look out..
#1. St Louis
The Blues feel like a team that has had enough and is on a mission... Adding O'Reilly is huge, but bringing back Fabbri is even bigger...and they have some young players who could make an impact. And they are stacked... It is still early, but it feels like St. Louis' turn.
So what say you?
Is this the best division? Do you agree with my early rankings?
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