Todd Cordell
Three.
Toronto is a lock. They're playing without one of their best players and still winning a lot. I think William Nylander's return, whenever that happens, will be really big for them. Yes, he'll give provide more firepower but he'll also help the team transition from defense to offense. That's been a big issue at times thus far.
Winnipeg is a lock even though they've been pretty hit and miss thus far. They have a lot of speed, skill, and depth on their roster and a Vezina finalist between the pipes. All good there.
Lastly, I'll say Calgary. I have zero (0) faith in Mike Smith but I like their group of forwards and think the defense has the potential to be a lot better than it has been. Playing in a weak division doesn't hurt either.
I have been impressed by Montreal but I think they'll fall just short. In Edmonton, Connor McDavid doesn't have enough help. Vancouver and Ottawa...well, at least there are some nice young pieces to watch.
Sean Maloughney Four.
I still think Edmonton has a reasonable chance especially considering the division they are playing in. Aside from the Sharks, there are no clear-cut favorites in the division giving Edmonton ample opportunity to stay in the hunt.
The same goes for Calgary. I am still not wild about their goaltending but they have enough firepower to get the job done on most nights. I see the Flames and Oilers in a position to be neck and neck.
The Jets and Leafs will both certainly make it as well. Both were strong teams last year and look to continue that play this season. The Jets have been a little underwhelming but as their stars get going they will be a force once again.
Montreal and Vancouver are off to decent starts but neither has the ability to maintain this level over a full season. The schedules have been favorable to both teams and I expect both to fall to reality sooner than later.
Trevor Shackles The Leafs, Jets, and Flames will get in.
The Leafs simply have too much offensive fire power to miss, and if they ever add William Nylander to their group, it'll be even better. There's no chance they miss the playoffs.
The Jets are in a similar boat, plus they probably have better defense and goaltending than the Maple Leafs. Winnipeg's forward depth is just incredible.
The Flames are one of many bubble teams in the West, and it will be a dog fight to get in. However, I was the high guy on Calgary last year, and I'll stick with that again. I think they can sneak in with a wild card spot due to their lethal top-six core.
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