…‹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.
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