Welcome to another edition of the Hockeybuzz hotstove.
In this one we'll be sharing our power rankings for the top-5 teams in hockey.
Todd Cordell
1. Tampa Bay Lightning (17-6-3)
They just lost a tough one to Buffalo, but it was a back-to-back situation and Ben Bishop wasn't in net. They're 1st in the NHL and they played most of the season without their best defensemen, which is good enough for me.
2. Pittsburgh Penguins (17-5-2)
Their team is beat up, but they keep plugging away and winning games. Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are both playing lights out, too, as they were No. 1 / No. 2 in scoring during November. As long as they're going, the Penguins will continue to win and win often.
3. Chicago Blackhawks (15-8-1)
After winning eight of their last 10 they're just three points back of Nashville for the division lead. I think they'll sit atop the Central soon enough.
4. Anaheim Ducks (15-6-2)
They've stumbled a bit of late but still own a very good record and are coming off a win against a very good Bruins team. Sami Vatanen continues to dominate, and Matt Beleskey has been one of the league's pleasant surprises this season.
5. New York Islanders (18-7-0)
How about them Islanders? They're getting production throughout their entire lineup, they've won eight of their last 10 overall and Jaroslav Halak has won 10 consecutive starts.
Tim Chiasson 1. Pittsburgh Penguins (17-5-2)
Best team in the NHL. Unless they lose Crosby or Malkin I can't see them falling from the top of the kingdom anytime soon. Oh, that goalie everyone likes to hate is playing some great hockey too.
2. Nashville Predators (16-6-2)
This team is probably the best story of the year so far. No one predicted they'd be so successful this early. David Poile has done a great job at bringing in some key pieces from players to staff and this team continues to show they're a legitimate Western Power.
3. New York Islanders (18-7-0)
The Isles have continued to win a pile of games since last week. It seems that they are more and more like the real deal with each passing contest. Things are looking up in New York for Isles fans and Garth Snow is no longer the punchline for jokes.
4. St. Louis Blues (16-6-2)
The Blues are rolling and they just signed some goaltending insurance. Brodeur might not have the flashiest stats lately but he wins, and so does St. Louis. Their ability to stay deep in the crease will keep them close to the top of the West.
5. Tampa Bay Lightning (17-6-3)
The Lightning lead the NHL as of this morning but they are a little ahead in games played so that could change. Regardless they're still on track and a great hockey team. Victor Hedman coming back only means great things for this team.
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