Here are my predictions on how the teams will finish in the standings for the 2014-2015 season:
Eastern Conference:
1. Boston Bruins
2. Pittsburgh Penguins
3. Tampa Bay Lightning
4. Montreal Canadiens
5. New York Rangers
6. New Jersey Devils
7. Washington Capitals
8. Columbus Blue Jackets
9. Philadelphia Flyers
10. Detroit Red Wings
11. New York Islanders
12. Toronto Maple Leafs
13. Ottawa Senators
14. Florida Panthers
15. Buffalo Sabres
16. Carolina Hurricanes
With more consistent goaltending, look for the New Jersey Devils to reenter the post-season for the first time since they lost in the Finals to the Kings in 2012. Also, the Capitals will make the playoffs after missing last year under the guidance of new coach Barry Trotz. With inconsistent goaltending and terrible defense, the Flyers will barely miss the post-season and the Detroit Red Wings will simply be too old to sustain their playoff streak.
Western Conference:
1. LA Kings
2. St. Louis Blues
3. Chicago Blackhawks
4. Anaheim Ducks
5. Dallas Stars
6. Minnesota Wild
7. Colorado Avalanche
8. Vancouver Canucks
9. San Jose Sharks
10. Edmonton Oilers
11. Arizona Coyotes
12. Nashville Predators
13. Winnipeg Jets
14. Calgary Flames
The Canucks will barely edge out the Sharks for the last playoff spot in the West. The Sharks terrible handling of Joe Thornton and the captaincy will cost them a playoff spot.
