Atlanta ThrashersMTSHL Season 1 Preview
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Everyone must remember that the MTSHL is entering it's first ever season. Therefore, predicting how teams will do in season 1 is difficult because no one has played, and no one will no what wholes teams have corrected or fixed. With that said however, the Eastern Conference still is home to some very interesting teams. The Ottawa Senators, NJ Devils, Toronto Maple Leafs and Philadelphia Flyers seem to be shoe-ins to make the playoffs almost every year. However the New York Rangers and Montreal Canadiens also look like strong contenders this year. The Sabres, Bruins, Lightning and Islanders will fight it out for the last few spots in the conference, with Atlanta as the underdog team who remains with an outside shot at the postseason.
Predicted
Standings
1. *Ottawa 104
2. *New Jersey 99
3. NY Rangers 100
4. Montreal 94
5. Toronto 90
6. Philly 89
7. NY Islanders 88
8. Buffalo 87
-------------------------
9. Boston 84
10. Washington 80
11. Tampa Bay 77
12. Atlanta 72
13. Florida 68
14. Carolina 61
15. Pittsburgh 48
Atlanta Thrashers
Thrash Forward Into the Future: The Atlanta Thrashers may not be a serious contender this season. However their goal is to let their youth mature a little and a few years down the road the Thrashers will be one of the MTSHL's elite teams. With that said, don't expect the Thrashers to completely throw the season either. Dany Heatly and Ilya Kovalchuk are their future, however they have also come to play in the present. With salary cap space, and good coaching this team still has a shot at catching the number 8 slot in a very deep east.
Goaltenders: Byron Dafoe is the clear number one. He is no longer the prime goalie he once was but a resurgence of Lord Byron isn't completely unrealistic. Veteran Trevor Kidd was acquired to help out the goaltending this year as the number 2, but expect Cassivi or Nurminen to steal this job sometime in the near future. The Thrashers are deep in the goaltending department but lack a true starter. Grade C-
Defensemen: Kaberle, Tamer and Tremblay are a solid 4,5, and 6 d-man on most MTSHL teams. However, for Atlanta they will be acting as 1,2 and 3. Atlanta is pretty weak after that on defense, and without a true number 1 goaltender, their lack of defense could ultimately cost them the season. Grade F
Forwards: Offence is definitely the Thrashers best asset. Dany Heatly, Ilya Kovalchuk and Patrick Stephan make for an explosive, youth-full line 1. Atlanta also has some depth in, Shawn McEachern, Slava Kozlov, Marc Savard, and Yuri Butsayev. The addition of Robert Reichel helps boost the offence a little more, and Bill Lindsay acts as a great penalty killer, however they still are lacking some solid 3rd line scorers. A two line team at best, the Thrashers may have to rely heavily on their first line if they want even a small chance in finishing in the playoffs. Grade C+
On the Hot Seat: Everyone! The Thrashers will be relying heavily on Dany Heatley and Ilya Kovalchuk maturing if they want any chance of cracking a post season birth. However, Lord Byron also must get back to the form he once was in, and in fact must player better then even his days in Boston. Frantisek Kaberle, and Yannick Tremblay will have huge pressure on them to lead the defense, both at regular strength and on the powerplay.
Overall Rating: D
Outlook: The Atlanta Thrashers have a shot at cracking into the playoffs, however they also have a shot at finishing last in the entire league. With the defense the team has, don't expect youngster Frantisek Kaberle to lead this team into the post-season. He could have a solid season, but anything more is just too much to ask. 13th Eastern Conference
Carolina Hurricanes
Canes looking at another miss: Season one for the Hurricanes is not one Carolina fans should be looking forward too. After doing next to nothing to revamp their team, which by the way failed to make the playoffs, the Canes now have to be looking to make some moves before it's too late.
Goaltenders: The Canes will be putting their hopes on the shoulders of goaltender Kevin Weekes. Weekes isn't a bad goalie, but don't expect much from backup Rob Zepp to relieve him. Just like Irbe two seasons ago, Weekes may have to play close to 82 games if the Canes want to make a surprise run at the post season. Grade D
Defensemen: It gets slightly better for the Canes from here. There defense actually isn't in that bad of a shape. The addition of Danny Markov is a great grab for this teams defense, to possibly help out on the PP. Defensive d-men Aaron Ward, and Glen Welsey lead the squad. Brad Hedican and Bob Boughner also bring great defensive awareness to this team. Sean Hill and Danny Markov will help out on the PP, and Wallin is more then just okay for a 7th defensemen. With all that said, the team still could use a solid number 1 defensemen. Glen Wesley is a good temporary fit. Grade B+
Forwards: The Hurricanes' offense is anything but deep. Calling this a one line team is an understatement. With two solid centers, and one solid winger, the team will have to dig deep to score goals. Jeff O'Neill is the only true scorer on the team, and he has a solid passer in Ron Francis, providing a very nice one two punch. However Rod Brind'Amour is the next best thing they have, and maybe the only other bright spot in terms of offence for this team. Kevyn Adams helps bolster an impressive penalty kill unit, but the bottom line is the team needs more scorers. Now would be a good time to get them too, because Ron Francis era is running low. Grade F
On the Hot Seat: Jeff O'Neill. Sure Kevin Weekes will be asked to play close to 82 games this season, but no one has more pressure then Jeff O'Neill. With the defense the Canes have, Weekes should survive, but it's hard to win games when you score zero goals. Jeff O'Neill is their offence.
Overall rating: D
Outlook: The Hurricanes should miss the playoffs this year, and then suffer the aftermath of failing to advance to the post season in Ron Francis' final year. The team is in the rebuilding stage, but don't expect that to fit to well with Francis' plans. 15th Eastern Conference
Florida Panthers
Will the Cats Come Back to the Playoffs?: The Florida Panthers may or may not make the playoffs this year. The good news is their odds seem higher then both the two teams before them. They don't have any explosive weapons but they have a much more balanced teams. Will they make the playoffs? In simple terms - NOT THIS SEASON.
Goaltenders: The Panther's have handed the goaltending duties over to youngster Roberto Luongo. The team should be okay with Luongo handling the load, as he is more then ready. With Jane Hurme as an above - average backup, goaltending really isn't the area of concern for the Florida Panthers. Grade B
Defensemen: The Panthers have 7 or 8 guys who would be a solid 4, 5 or 6 d-man. However they really don't have a number 1. However the team is making strides in the right direction. Odelien or Laus will likely be referred to as the number 1, due to the fact that they will act as the tutor to Jay Bouwmeester. The other will act as the 3, as Bouwmeester is the clear number 2. Eric Messier would likely play with either Laus or Odelien, but the other two spots are still up for grabs. Grade C-
Forwards: The Panthers top forwards are Rick Nash, Kristien Huselius, Ivan Novoseltsev and Marcus Nilson. The supporting cast isn't horrible, but it isn't exactly something to be proud of either. The team will hang in there this season, start to mold together and eventually be an average core of youthful players. One things for sure, the team is praying Nash will be the player the organization thinks he is. Grade D
On the Hot Seat: Roberto Luongo. You try playing goal with a team like the Panthers in front of you. No pressure Roberto, no one is expecting you to lead the team to the promised land.
Overall Rating: C-
Outlook: The Panthers have and continue to make strides towards improving. However the team is not looking for a postseason birth this year, and won't get one. The team should be looking for around 65 points, and anything more would be an accomplishment. 14th Eastern Conference
Tampa Bay Lightning
Lightning May Strike this season: The thunder is starting to get louder and the Lightning may be looking at a post season birth. The lightning have a lot players whom have suddenly developed into above average stars. This youthful team keeps getting more and more exciting to watch.
Goaltenders: In goal the Lighting possess one of the better net minders in the MTSHL, Nikolai Khabibulin. Khabi may just be the goaltender who gets them into the promised land. Graham is the two and will be able to relieve him a few games here and there, but Nikolai is the glue of this team. If Nikolai has a steady season the Lightning will be in the playoffs. Grade B
Defensemen: Yikes! It's a good thing the team has Khabi, because their defence is a huge mess. Dan Boyle and Boris Mironov are the only defenders on this team who can play hockey. The addition of Calle Johansson was a huge necessity and they must feel like they struck oil. It is not unrealistic to think Calle might be crowned the teams number 1 defencemen, but one things for sure, these three men will be looked upon to lead the defence. Grade D
Forwards: Finally Tampa Bay has an offence to be proud of. Leading the way is the young captain, Vincent Lecailvier. Vincent's got a lot of talent, and Martin St.Louis, and veterain Dave Andreychuk will help him emerge into a premier player. Brad Richards and Corey Stillman are pretty solid as well, and the addition of Mark Messier is a blessing in disguise. The team needed some leadership to help lead this young team, insert Dave Andreychuk last year and Mark Messier this year, and suddenly their playoff hopes seem to brighten. Grade C+
On the Hot Seat: Believe it or not, the Mark Messier is the player in the hot seat. Sure Khabibulin will have to win his share of games on his own, and the first line will be focused one to get the job done, however that is something mandatory. The team went out and traded for Mark Messier, because they new they needed leadership and experience to get them to the post season. If Messier can provide the team is in, if he can't they may not be. Bottom Line is the pressure is on Mark more then anyone else.
Overall Rating: C
Outlook: The Eastern Conference is very competitive, and the Lightning might have a tough time grabbing one of those last few seeds. Sorry to burst the bubbles of Lightning fans across the world, but this had to come out. Tampa really isn't ready to be considered a contender. At least not this season. 11th Eastern Conference
Washington Capitals
Cap's only coming off for one reason: The Washington Capitals in the past have been a team to flirt with the eighth spot. There is no reason why that should be any different this season. However don't be raising your caps to the Washington Capitals. The only reason caps may be coming off in this city is to be thrown on the ice after Jarimor Jagr scores his 15th hat trick of the season. However, 1 man does not make a team, and Washington will find that out this season.
Goaltenders: Olaf Kolzig is no longer a top notch net minder in the MTSHL. Solid, yes. Consistent, No. Kolzig needs to work on becoming more consistent this year. The problem with Kolzig is he goes out and stops 50 shots and records a SO, and then the next game he makes 18 saves and allows 5 goals and the team loses. With Billington retired, there real won't be anyone to back him up when he starts slumping. Grade C
Defensemen: The Capitals are the MTSHL's WORST team when it comes to defense. All-Star defensemen Sergei Gonchar lead's the way, however he is better off as a forward then a defensemen. Sure, the PP will benifit from Gonchar's offencive skills, but honestly who is going to play defense for this club. Failing to re-sign Calle Johanson was a big mistake that will come back to haunt them. Grade - BIG FAT F
Forwards: When you think of the Washington Capitals the first name that comes to mind is Jaromir Jagr. However, Jagr can win the scoring title and it won't be enough to help this team. That's why the team has Petr Bondra, Michael Nylander, Robert Lang, Danus Zubrus and Peter Bondra. Insert Jeff Helpern on the PK and suddenly the team's offence looks somewhat good. Grade B-
On the Hot Seat: The Capitals are going to need the best effort they can get out of starting goalie Olaf Kolzig. The defense is extremely weak, but the offence is above average to say the least. The whole thing ends up in Kolzig's hands. Kolzig will make or break the season
Overall Rating: C-
Outlook: Yup, 5 consecutive non-playoff teams. The defense is just too weak. 10th Eastern Conference
Boston Bruins
Bru Crew looking for depth: Another team on the bubble. The Boston Bruins are looking to catch a playoff spot this season, However 9th place may be their result. Sure, Joe Thorton is a great player, but the team is still lacking the depth needed on both offence and defense to advance to the postseason.
Goaltenders: Boston has 2 above average goaltenders splitting the load between the pipes. They are lacking a true number 1 goaltender, though Shields and Potvin are still solid. Nothing outstanding, but this goaltender by committee approach should pan out for them. Grade B+
Defensemen: The Bruins defense is a very gritty bunch. None of them really excel on the power play or provide much help shorthanded either. However Hal Gil, Dan McGillis, and Sean O'Donnell will provide an abundance of checking. The team looks for Nick Boynton to emerge as their top defender both offensively and defensively, the problem is he may not be ready to take on such a huge role this year. Grade D
Forwards: The Boston offense lacks one thing, depth. Joe Thorton is one of the most prolific scorers in the league. He also adds a good clean checking side to his game, as well as some solid defensive attributes. Thorton is one of the better all around forwards in the game, and possess a lot of skills that most of the top scorers don't have. Paired with sniper Glen Murray and the speed stick handling abilities of Sergei Samsonov and the Bruins have a more then solid first line. Brian Rolston and Martin Lapointe aren't bad, but Rob Zamuner might be the next best thing after that. P.J. Stock is always exciting to watch, however don't count on him to tally more then 20 points this season. Grade C
On the Hot Seat: If the Bruins are going to be competitive in any way this season, their defense must play stronger then it has in the past. A lot of the pressure will be placed on veterans Dan McGillis and Sean O'Donnell to carry the load, however if Boynton can meet expectations, it makes them look good.
Overall Rating: C
Outlook: The Eastern Conference is solid. Boston is good, but maybe not good enough. It is possible they will still prove me wrong and catch a bottom spot but for now my prediction remains as is. 9th Eastern Conference
Buffalo Sabres
Satan keeps the fire alive: The Buffalo Sabres have a shot at the post season. Okay, more then a shot. The Sabres look as though they may be headed to the post season, even in such a tight Eastern Conference.
Goaltenders: Youngster Martin Biron has been selected as the man who will eventually lead this team back into the post season. Well Marty's time as a goaltender of the future has run out. Martin Biron must now be looked upon as the goalie of the present, and will be looked upon to make things happen. Mika Norinen and Ryan Miller are both very good young backups, however the team could use a better starter then Biron, with the defense they posses. Grade C+
Defensemen: The Sabres have solved their defensive woes. The addition of Bryan Berard, Eric Brewer, Andy Delmore and Rad. Klesla make the teams defense suddenly go from awful, to hopeful. The loss of Alexei Zhitnik is a minor one, because of the younger talent they received. Delmore and Berard will create a great 1-2 power play punch, and Brewer and Klesla may see time there as well. Mattias Norstrom is a very good defensive dman and expect him to lead the troops this season both while regular strength and while short handed. Grade B-
Forwards: On offense it's all about Miro Satan. Satan has been the teams top scorer in the past few years and expect similar results this season. JP Dumont and Anson Carter will complement Miro nicely, However nothing can put into words how great the move was to bring over hold out centerman Mike Comrie. Consider Johan Hecht, Maxim Afineganov, Daniel Briere and Tim Connelly and suddenly you have some solid troops. Grade B
On the Hot Seat: Martin Biron. Not enough can be said about the importance of having a solid goaltender. The time is now!
Overall Rating: B-
Outlook: The Sabres have a good chance of making the playoffs this year. Possibly the best chance the team has had since post- Hasek era. Biron is ready to replace him, and if he plays strong enough the team is a shoe in for a bottom playoff spot. Home ice advantage is not unrealistic, but simply making the playoffs will be the most likely outcome. 8th Eastern Conference
Montreal Canadiens
Habby to be a Canadian!: The Montreal Canadiens are entering this season on a much more optimistic level then any season before. Saku Koivu has some buddies now! Not only is the team expected to have a serious shot at the postseason, but the chance of capturing home ice advantage seems very realistic too.
Goaltenders: Introducing the starting goaltender for your Montreal Candiens, Jose Theodore. The most important part of contending in the Eastern Conference is goaltending. If Jose Theodore can play like he did 2 years ago, the Canadiens could finish as high as first in the East. This is not unrealistic by any stretch of the imagination, but doing so will be very difficult. If "No Way Jose", can play the kind of hockey he once was, their won't be much need for emerging backup Matheiu Garon. If the team starts to struggle however, Garon could become the starter before the end of the season, as he is a very good young goaltender. Grade B
Defensemen: The Montreal Canadiens had a descent defensive core, but lacked one true powerplay point man, and one true penalty killer. In the off season they addressed both those issues, acquiring Oleg Tverdovsky and Bill Houlder via the free agent market. Andrei Markov, and Patrice Brisebois should also see time on the PP, while Rivet and Quintal should help out Houlder shorthanded. Ken Dykhouis, Sheldon Souray and Patrick Traverse will fight for a spot as the teams 7th defender. Either of the 3 are capable. Grade B+ crappy way to end an otherwise great season
Forwards: The Canadiens have 4 absolutely solid centermen, in Saku Koivu, Adam Oates, Keith Primeau and Yannick Perrault, although it is likely at least one will move to the wing. Add Geoff Sanderson, Richard Zednik and Donald Audette, and suddenly the offence looks quite good. Montreal is the real deal! Grade B
On the Hot Seat: Jose Theodore. Will Theodore get them into first? No way Jose! He answers his own quesiton, but if Theodore is strong enough the Canadiens will walk into the playoffs with home ice advantage.
Overall Rating: B
Outlook: The Canadiens are once again going to be one of the best teams in the league and a contender for the Challenge Cup. They have all the tools to put together another strong regular season and should wind up among the top four or five teams in the East. But what they're really focused on is going far in the playoffs, and everything else will mean nothing if they can't do that. 4th Eastern Confernece
Ottawa Senators
SENSational: The Ottawa Senators may just be the Eastern Conferences strongest team. The great thing about the Senators is they have a great team, and they will stick around for a while because they are all young. This could be the next dynasty.
Goaltenders: The Ottawa Senators are more then comfortable putting all the pressure on Patrick Lalime. Lalime is a good, young goalie who only gets better over the years. Prusek is a steady backup. Grade B-
Defensemen: When you think of the Sens defense, you immediately focus on their two bright young stars, Wade Redden and Zdeno Chara. Chara is a hard hitting defensive dman, while Redden is one of the better two way dmen in the game today. After that the next best thing is Rachunek and Phillips. The Senators should focus on drafting more depth at defense. Grade C+
Forwards: The Senators have arguably the best offence in the Eastern Conference. At Center, Todd White, Brian Smolinski and youngster Jason Spezza, who could crack onto the teams top line. Alfreddson, Hossa, Havlat and Bonk, take care of the wings on the top 2 lines. Mike Fisher is a fairly descent penalty killer. Grade B+
Needs to step up: The Sens need Wade Redden and Zdeno Chara to absolutely carry the load on defense.
Overall Rating: B
Outlook: The Ottawa Senators should be in strong contention for first place in the East. If the defense holds true, and Jason Spezza is the real deal, then don't be surprised if they accomplish that goal. 1st Eastern Conference
Toronto Maple Leafs
Last Chance for the boys in Blue: The Toronto Maple Leafs have been one of the most solid teams in the East over the last few years. With that said it's been almost 40 years since the team last one a cup. Hopefully the MTSHL will bring better news for the Leafs. This truely might be the last chance for the leafs to take home a cup, this decade, because captain Mats Sundin is a free man at the season's end.
Goaltenders: The Leafs have one of the top goaltending tandems in the MTSHL in Eddie Belfour and newly acquired backup Mike Richter. The two are both aging, and that's another reason why this could be their final shot this decade. Grade A+
Defensemen: The Leafs defense is above average. Phil Housley and Robert Svehla are back on the blue line. Tomas Kaberle will likely play along side Svehla on line 1, and McCabe and Housley could make up line 2. Aki Berg, Stanislav Neckar are 5 and 6, but the leafs have two young blessings expected to break out sooner or later. Richard Jackman and Carlo Coliaccovo. Grade C+
Forwards: The Leafs offense is good. Not Amazing, but very, very, very good. Line 1 will be Mats Sudin's line. Who Quinn descides to play with him is a mystery to us all. Expect Sundin to be alongside Alex Mogilny although it isn't a guarantee. The leafs have 3 other solid centers following Sundin, in Joe Nieuwendyk, Nik Antropov and Dougy Gilmour. The left wingers are Gary Roberts, Ulf Dahlen, Darcy Tucker and Travis Green, and the rights (after Mogilny) are Domi, Renberg and newly acquired Valeri Bure. As you can see the Leafs aren't in any desperate need to add more offence, as the team posses a lot of depth, and has a lot of options for how they want to play with the lines. Matt Stajan is a wild card to make the team. Grade B+
On the Hot Seat: The defence. All 8 of them. Whoever is dressed must make sure not to caugh up too many pucks. The defense makes or breaks this team. Doug Gilmour is looking for one last cup, and Sundin also has some pressure to try and win won with him.
Overall Rating: B+
Outlook: Now or never for the Leafs. I
can't stress this point enough. Dougy's final year in the MTSHL. Let him be
remembered for finally bringing the cup back to Toronto. Sundin and Gilmour are
the perfect formula for the cup, however they will have to fight exceptionally
hard if they want home ice advantage in the playoffs. 5th Eastern
Conference.
New
Jersey Devils
Jersey looks to succeed without Joe: The New Jersey Devils are a similar team to last year. There one major change was the loss of Joe Nieuwendyk in the offseason. However the team quickly rebounded from that by signing Igor Larionov, the MTSHL's oldest player.
Goaltenders: Martin Brodeur. Doesn't matter that Shwabb is serving as backup, Brodeur won't need much relief because he won't face too many shots a game. Grade A-
Defensemen: The Devils defense is simply amazing. Scott Stevens, Scott Neidermeyer, Dmitri Yushkevich, Brian Rafalski, Colin White, Richard Smehlik. Pretty solid from end to end. Grade A
Forwards: While the Devils aren't extremely amazing, they are satisfactory considering the amount of goals they will let by. Patrick Elias leads the way. Friesen, Gomez and Larionov, are could all contribute well if playing with Elias. Lagenbrunner, Gionta and Brylin aren't bad either, but are 3rd tier players. John Madden is a great penalty killer. Grade C+
On the Hot Seat: Patrick Elias. They can stop goals, the question is, Can they score them?
Overall Rating: B
Outlook: The Devils are good. A team would be lucky to score more then once on them a game. However with that said, the offence may be struggling to score much more then that themselves. Regardless however, they are still arguably the best team in the East. 2nd Eastern Conference
New York
Islanders
sNOw They Won't miss the post-season!: The New York Islanders are headed to the postseason if Garth Snow has any say in the matter. The team's offence isn't bad, nor is the defense, nor is the goaltending. If any of these guys step up, the team will find themselves in the postseason. Garth Snow could be that guy!
Goaltenders: Snow isn't a snazzy goaltender, nor is he an exciting one. However, he is solid, and for the New York Islanders, they just want him to stop goals. It doesn't matter how he stops them, as long as he does. Rick DiPietro will someday be an amazing starter, but for now he's a developing backup. Grade B-
Defensemen: The Isles have 4 incredible dmen. They just lack a 5 and 6. Janne Niinimaa, Roman Hamerlik, Kenny Jonsson, and Adrian Aucoin are 1,2,3 and 4 respectively. Olausson is their best shot at 5, and Cairns and Pushor will compete for the 6th spot. Grade A-
Forwards: The Islanders have Peca, Yashin, Czerkawski, Parrish and Bates. Not bad, but not deep enough to be considered particularly good either. Still Peca's defensive skills help their cause. Grade C+
On the Hot Seat: Who's in the hot seat? I've said it once, and I repeat, Garth Snow makes or breaks this team.
Overall Rating: B-
Outlook: The New York Islanders should make the playoffs, and could even still home ice. The Eastern Conference in hockey is a very tight race. Snow is good, but not as good as some of the other guys. 7th Eastern Conference
New York Rangers
Rangers Guarantee Post Season Birth: General Manager Mike Forcht is smart man. He is guaranteeing a playoff spot finally, and likely will get one. The team continues to make strides in the right direction and could be a shoe in for the post season.
Goaltenders: In goal the veteran Mike Dunham, and his young backup Daniel Blackburn. Blackburn is a nice complement for Dunham, and next year most likely will have the starting job. Grade B-
Defensemen: The Rangers have one of the better defenses in the Eastern Conference. Brian Leetch leads the way, and will continue to for the course of the regular season. Kasparitais is their best defensive dman, and it is almost a guarantee he will start along side of Leetch on line 1. On line 2, expect defensive veteran Jay McKee and youngster Tom Poti. On line 3, Malakov's defensive play complements deVries' offence very nicely. Grade B
Forwards: The Rangers have released their lines to the general public, and the media is impressed. The Rangers finally or at least appear to have figured out the solution to success. Line 1 will likely feature Eric Lindros, Pavel Bure and Alexei Kovalev, and believe me it doesn't get better then that. Line 2 will feature Bobby Holik, and he will likely be complimented by the defensive play of Gary Valk who has agreed to play for one final season. On the Left side will be Brad May, who complements both nicely. Line 3 will be a scoring line of Petr Nedved, Freddie Modin and Martin Rucinsky. While for now Webb will play on the third line with Stumpy Steve Thomas. However do not frown, Pavel Bure will likely scate on a line with the two players to create a 3-era line. Grade A-
On the Hot Seat: The player with the most pressure on him is Mike Dunham. It doesn't help the Dan Blackburn is on his tail with a chance to become the team's number 1 goaltender. Regardless however, Dunham likely will live up to the task.
Overall rating: B+
Outlook: Two minutes ago we were talking about the Rangers finally getting back to the post season. Now we are talking about home ice advantage. The Rangers new look team could even be a threat for first in the East, but we will stick to third for now. 3rd Eastern Conference
Philadelphia Flyers
Flying into the Postseason: Yes, they will be in the postseason. However they may not be flying so high once they get there. The Flyers are becoming a team everyone wants to hate, and will continue to this year. The Flyers are a gritty feisty club, but the conference is deep, so home ice this year, might not happen.
Goaltenders: Jeff Hacket and Marc Denis. 1 word - MEH! (that means average) Grade C+
Defensemen: The Flyers' defense is deep, but not amazing. The loss of Yushkevich is key, but the addition of Malik should help that enough. The Flyers have KJ who is a great young two way defensemen. Weinrich, Desjardins, and Therien continue to keep the bunch together. Although rookie Jim Vandemeer could get a spot in the lineup. Grade B-
Forwards: The Philadelphia Flyers have a few offensive bright spots. Lead by Jeremy Roenick the team knows they won't need much more passing skills then that. If John LeClair can stay healthy they have their sharp shooter, and Simon Gagne acts as the speedy young play maker. Insert Mark Reechi and Tony Amonte, and the offence is a force to recon with. Donald Brasher will once again provide the off-ice entertainment (aka - in the box). Grade B
On the hot seat: Marek Malik must play be the Dmitri Yushkevich of last year, however Jeff Hackett probably has the most pressure.
Overall Rating: B-
Outlook: The Flyers were the best team in the Eastern Conference when all was said and done last season, and that's probably the case again this year. The odds are against them finishing ahead of Toronto in the regular season just because of the strength of schedules though. While the Flyers have six games against each of New Jersey, Pittsburgh, the Rangers and Islanders, the Leafs get six games against each of Boston, Buffalo, Quebec and Ottawa, and that will probably make the difference in the standings between two teams that aren't separated by much talent-wise. But the playoffs are what the Flyers are waiting for, and that's when they should really bring out their best game and rise to the occasion. 6th Eastern Conference
Pittsburgh Penguins
Pens hope to avoid last place: Things don't look good for the Penguins.
Goaltenders: J.S. Aubin, but it will likely soon be Marc-Andre Fluery. Grade C-
Defensemen: Drake Berehowksy and Dick Tarnstrom will likely be playing a bunch of no name players. Grade D
Forwards: Martin Straka. Grade D -
On the Hot Seat: Everyone and Anyone. Ten Bucks says they have a no coach next year.
Overall Rating: D
Outlook: The Penguins flat out stink. It is no longer a good time to be a Penguins fan. In a few years hopefully they'll be looking back at the rest of the team and laughing as they are beginning a new dynasty. Give them a break, it's the post MARIO era. What did you expect?
Western Conference
The Western Conference will be broken down into a few races. One will be between the Red Wings, Stars, Avalanche, Canucks, and YES the Columbus Blue Jackets. St.Louis will likely be the 6th by default, although potentially shouldn't be counted out of the five team race. The other race will be the entire rest of the Western Conference. The East is tight from 1 through nine, but the West is deep from 7 through 12.
Predicted Standings
1. *Detroit 109
2. *Colorado 99
3. Columbus 102
4. Vancouver 95
5. Dallas 94
6. St.Louis 88
7. Nashville 84
8. Chicago 81
----------------------
9. Minnesota 77
10. Anaheim 74
11. Edmonton 70
12. Calgary 68
13. San Jose 66
14. Los Angeles 63
15. Phoenix 58
Anaheim Mighty Ducks
MighTY or not MightTY?: That is the question. The Anaheim Mighty Ducks are one of those team where it's hard to fit them in a spot. Realistically they could fall anywhere from 6th (after the obvious 5) to 15. One things for sure, it will most likely be an exciting season for the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim.
Goaltenders: J.S. Giguere will once again keep Arrow Head Pond Rocking. Martin Gerber is a developing backup, and hopefully he can make good on the minutes he plays. The one thing these goalies lack however is experience, which may or may not prove costly. Grade B-
Defensemen: The Ducks defense aren't bad. Sandis Ozolinsh is a great point man, but is probably better off suited to play offense then defense. He will contribute greatly on the powerplay and likely finish in the top 10 in defensemen in points. Keith Carney and Vitali Vishnevksy are good defensive dmen, and the rest of the bunch kind of flop together. Grade B-
Forwards: Add Sergei Federov, Subtract Paul Kariya. The Ducks will likely be sorry that they let Kariya go. Grade D+
On the Hot Seat: Sergei Federov to replace Paul Kariya. He isn't Paul Kariya, but he'll have to try and be, if the team wants to make another serious run.
Overall Rating: C
Outlook: The Ducks may or may not make the playoffs. They may or may not be Mighty. One things for sure however they got a hell of a goaltender in J.S. Giguere, and techincally he could make anything happen. 10th Western Conference.
Dallas Stars
Stars on Trek to capture home ice: The Dallas Stars suddenly look as though they may not be one of the top 4 teams in the MTSHL this season. What has in the past been a 4 team race (guaranteeing them home ice) has now become a 5 team race. The Stars will now likely have to SURPASS one of Colorado, Detroit, or Vancouver if they want to capture home ice advantage.
Goaltenders: Marty Turco is a GREAT young goaltender. Ron Tugnet is a very good veterain backup. This is a great tandem. Grade A-
Defensemen: The Dallas Stars lost Darien Hatcher and Darryl Sydor. They filled the whole with Teppo Numinem and Don Sweeney. Sweeney and Teppo both are unbelievable defensive dmen. Zubov and Teppo will likely work the point on the powerplay, and Boucher, Matvichuk and Berenzweig will likely be the 4,5 and 6 men. Grade B-
Forwards: When you think of the Stars the first name that comes to mind is, and always has been Mike Modano. Modano has been a Star since before the move to Dallas, and is a perfect role model for the team. He is the image of Stars hockey and truely is a great leader. Modano could reach the 100 point mark again this season, although it isn't likely. Bill Guerin, Pierre Turgeon and Jason Arnott, are there other top notch players, and you can almost guarantee, Guerin and Modano will be side by side this year. Lehtinen will likely be the star shorthanded, and he will likely play with Modano on the penalty kill. Morrow should see time when short a men as well. Claude Lemieux also helps add to a good looking offence. Grade B
On the Hot Seat: Don Sweeney and Teppo Numinem replacing Darryl Sydor and Darien Hatcher!
Overall Rating: B
Outlook: Dallas wants home-ice and if in the Eastern Conference, they WOULD get it. However I have to put Detroit, Colorado, Vancouver and Columbus all ahead of Dallas for the time being. 5th Western Conference
Los Angeles Kings
King of what castle?: The Los Angeles kings don't seem to be the kings of anything these days. Certainly, not Kings of the MTSHL or Kings of the hockey world. Possibly the kings of the cellar, because it is possible they will be there for the majority of the season.
Goaltenders: Roman Checkmanek is the so called "ace" of the goaltending staff. His backup Milan Hlinka. Neither are bad goalies, but neither are all that proven either. They are still in the younger generation of the goaltenders of the league, and still has room to improve. Grade C+
Defensemen: Jarolsav Modry is the best they have. Kuznetsov will be fighting for a spot this year, and Visnovsky is probably their top PP dman. No one else is really all that exciting. Grade D-
Forwards: The team has 5 solid forwards. Zigmund Palffy is their all-star and will continue to be this year. He will be on the all-star team this season, that's almost a guarantee. Jason Allison should complement him nicely on the first line. Allison has a chance at making the all-star team as well. On the other side will be a fight between Luc Robitaille and Adam Deadmarsh. The loser will play with Josef Stumpel on line 2. After that the Kings are very, very weak. Grade C+
On the Hot Seat: Jaroslav Modry. He's the best they have defensively and if they want to go anywhere, a lot of pressure will be on him to lead the pack.
Overall Rating: C
Outlook: The Kings aren't a bad team, but lack the defense it takes to get into the playoffs. 14th Western Conference.
Phoenix Coyotes
Phoenix Falling Fast: Coyotes, like the Kings should see a fair amount of time in the basement this season.
Goaltenders: Sean Burke and Brian Boucher make for one of the better tandems in the MTSHL. Burke is a solid starter, however his age suggests he may start to be on the decline. Regardless, he is still a steady net minder and Boucher is a solid backup. Grade A
Defensemen: The Coyotes d is rather weak. They have some young bright spots, but nothing to suggest they will be anything better then AWFUL this season. Grade F
Forwards: Shane Doan is by far their best forward. Jan Hrdina adds some stability at center, and Mike Johnson should be entering his prime sometime soon. The rest of the offence however is absolutely brutal. The team will get better, and youngsters will improve and get a shot to show what they are worth, However expect nothing shy of a miracle if they are going to have a shot at making the playoffs. A miracle may not be the solution! Grade D-
On the Hot Seat: No one! They are in the rebuilding stage and are not expected to make the playoffs this season. If they do then it'd be unbelievable and no one holds these expectations for this team. With that said no one faces any pressure to do well.
Overall Rating: D
Outlook: Coyotes fans should not be optimistic going into the 2004 season, or the 2005 season either for that matter. However, all good things come at a cost, and when this team eventually does become good, these few years without success won't seem very significant. 15th Western Conference
San Jose Sharks
Sharks Hungry For a playoff Birth: A playoff birth for the Sharks at this stage WILL NOT happen, although things can change.
Goaltenders: The San Jose Sharks' starting goalie will be Evgeni Nabokov. His backup will be Mikka Kriprasoff. Together they shouldn't have much trouble winning games for the Sharks. Grade B+
Defensemen: The Sharks have some good young defensemen. Unfortunately however, they are holding out. If Brad Stuart and Kyle McLaren were to agree to terms, then we would have no problem here. However, without Stuart and McLaren the defence only has one good defender in Mark Rathje. Grade C+ (with Kyle and Brad) - BIG FAT F without
Forwards: Vinny Daumphousse is the best player they have on offence. Alyn McCauley is a rising young star. The have some descent depth in Primeau, Ricci, Marleau and Sturm, but they lack some top line scorers. Grade C-
On the Hot Seat: Evgeni Nabokov. He's the one who has to deal most with McLaren and Stuart holding out. Although whomever is chosen to manage this team, could be in the hot seat as well.
Overall Rating: C
Outlook: The Sharks won't make the playoffs without Brad and Kyle. However, realistically the two of them shouldn't make that much of a difference. If they did have them, then 8th place is a possibilty but for now. 13th Western Conference
Calgary Flames
Fire Power: The Calgary Flames look to try and pop into the post season this year. Jerome Iginla will be the main, if not only, source of fire power for the Calgary Flames offence, however if the goaltending can stand up, they may just have a shot at 7th or 8th place in the West.
Goaltenders: The Flames have Roman Turek between the pipes this year. Turek lacks consistency, and is known to crumble sometimes in the playoffs. Expect Turek to have a strong campaign for Calgary this season. McLennan is his backup. He is a backup, not a good one, but a backup none the less. Grade C+
Defensemen: 2 words, Rhett Warrener. He's the best thing they've got, and he'll be looked upon to lead the way. After that it's slim pickings, but a few youngsters will battle to make the team. Grade D-
Forwards: Not enough can be said about the talents possessed by Jerome Iginla. Iginla will lead the pack for the Flames offence, and should do so in exciting fashion. Craig Conroy and Dean McAmmond will be their to assist him, but don't expect much more from anyone else. The team has a lot of positional players but lacks solid scorers. Grade C
On the Hot Seat: Roman Turek must prove that he will be consistently good this year. With the lack of defense in front of him, it puts even more pressure on the situation.
Overall Rating: C
Outlook: The Flames aren't going to contend for Lord Stanley's Mug this season. However, the Flames should expect a lot from Jerome Iginla, and maybe next year isn't an unrealistic shot at advancing past the first round. For now however, they will be lucky to make the postseason. 12th Western Conference
Colorado
Avalanche
Kariya and Selanne Reunited: The Colorado Avalanches will be battling for first in the conference without a doubt this season. They are definately one of the top 5 teams in the West, and it could be argued that infact they are the best. However the loss of Joe Sakic and lack of goaltending suggests otherwise.
Goaltenders: The Avs' will look to Tomas Vokoun to be their man between the pipes this year. Tomas is good, but for a team looking for a cup, he may not be the answer. The problem is Tomas is inexperienced, as he has never advanced to the post-season. Newly acquired Norm Maracle will be given the right to back up Tomas, after failing to acquire Mike Richter, Arturs Irbe, and Jamie Storr in the free agent market this off-season. Grade C+
Defensemen: The Avalanche definitely have the defense in front of Vokoun to help him out. Leading the way is All-star Rob Blake, and his line mate Adam Foote. Foote is solid defensively and Blake arguably the best all around defensemen in the game. Blake will play as many minutes as they can get for him, and Foote will see a lot of time Shorthanded, but next to none on the power play. Morris and Timonen will be 3 and 4, and are both are legitimate number 3 defenders. Martin Skoula will be the 5 although could deserve to be a 3 or 4 elsewhere and newly acquired Jamie Heward will become the 6th, ahead of Karlis Skrastins. Grade A-
Forwards: The Avalanche have some of the most outstanding forwards in the MTSHL. Line 1 will feature Peter Forsberg, Milan Hejduk and Alex Tanguay. Hedjuk and Tanguay are always improving in all areas of their game, and Forsberg is one of the best all around players in the game. On line 2, Paul Kariya and Teemu Selanne will be reunited and centered by youngster David Legwand. Jordin Tootoo gets the spot on the third line, centering Peter Worrell and Matthew Barnaby, while an impressive 4th line will complain for ice-time. Sergei Berezin, Oleg Petrov and Tomi Kallio. Grade A+
On the Hot Seat: Tomas Vokoun. The team is looking for him to be the man, to help them win a cup. He is a big drop of from Patrick Roy and because of this faces even more pressure.
Overall Rating: A-
Outlook: The Colorado Avalanche are going to be good. Vokoun probably isn't good enough to win them a cup, but with the talent they have, and with the trading of Joe Sakic, the team looks as though they are concerned about their future, but with the addition of Jordin Tootoo and David Legwand, along with Tanguay and Hedjuk that problem seems to be solved. 2nd Western Conference
Edmonton Oilers
Goodbye Mike Comrie: When Doug Weight left Edmonton, their future looked bright, as Mike Comrie looked to be the man to replace him. However, only a few years later, Comrie has gone too. Who will be the man to replace Doug Weight and get this team into the playoffs?
Goaltenders: In goal for the Oilers is Tommy Salo. Salo has been fairly consistent over the past few years and for Sweden as well. Salo is a very good goalie, but maybe not on the same level as Martin Brodeur, or even Eddie Belfour. Fred Brathwaite is an above average backup, and this may very well be the best tandem in the MTHSL. Grade A+
Defensemen: The Oilers defense is weaker then ever. Captain Jason Smith returns, but likely won't won't be able to handle the job of covering up for Salo on his own. The team needs some helpers for Jason Smith. Steve Staois brings hope to the teams defense, but not nearly enough. Grade D
Forwards: The clear replacement to Mike Comrie is Chris Drury. Drury is good, and will lead the way for the Edmonton front 12. The speed of Kapenen should compliment him nicely, and it is likely that the line will be centered by Mike York. Curtis Brown and Brad Isbister will make up line 2, and hopefully Raffi Torres is given the opportunity to play with them. The team does however, lack depth. Grade C+
On the Hot Seat: Chris Drury. The city of Edmonton wants Dougy Weight back. They also want Comrie back. Hopefully Chris Drury is the next best thing. Regardless of whether he is or isn't the pressure is on him TO BE!
Overall Rating: C+
Outlook: The Edmonton Oilers are a playoff contender. Whether or not they make it depends on whether or not Drury can provide the same offensive spark Doug Weight did for so many years. 11th Western Conference
Minnesota Wild
Minnesota in for yet another Wild Season: The Minnesota Wild had a breakthrough season last year. This year coach Jacques Lemaire is hoping the can improve on that.
Goaltenders: The controversy is over. Dwayne Roloson is the one, Manny Fernandez is the two. Either way however, Rolo will get great relief whenever Manny is called upon. Grade B+
Defensemen: The Wild's defense has no experience. It is hard to decide whether or not they will be good or bad, but for this season, it doesn't look to impressive. Grade D-
Forwards: The Minnesota offense is built around one of the game's best young forwards, Marian Gaborik. Andrew Brunette will help him out. However it is unclear who will center the line although it will likely be Jim Dowd or Richard Park. The rest of the spots are hard to tell, not because they are bad, simply because they have a lot of depth. Lemaire will have a lot of options of where he can line up his guys, and expect him to make the right calls at the right times. Grade B-
On the Hot Seat: The Wild really need defense badly. The pressure will likely be on the shoulders on Dwayne and Manny, because they will have to make the defense look good.
Overall Rating: C
Outlook: The Minnesota Wild may make the playoffs, although they could just as easily fall short. The team is young and will be good in the future, however now the defense may be a little too weak to get the job done. 9th Western Conference
Vancouver Canucks
Canucks Hunting for first: The Vancouver Canucks are one of the top 5 teams without a question. However, predicting whether or not they will catch the one (or even home ice advantage) is tough to predict.
Goaltenders: The Canucks have Dan Cloutier and Johan Hedberg. Cloutier is solid but aging and often faces injury problems. Hedberg isn't bad either but he'll be the two because Cloutier is already running the show. In a year or two, it'll be Hedberg's team, but for now, only an injury could get him the starting job. Grade A
Defensemen: The Canucks have a very good defensive core. Ed Jovanovsky and Mattias Ohlund will be leading the way. Jovo is one of the great all-around defenders in the league, and Ohlund is close to fitting that category as well. Jovo will likely be an all-star, and Ohlund COULD be. Both are also more valuable then other elite defenders because of their age. Sopel and Salo (also good young d) will be three and four, but a 5th or 6th d, is still yet to emerge. Grade B-
Forwards: The Canucks forwards are AWESOME. Marcus Naslund, Todd Bertuzzi and Brandon Morrison will once again make up the top line for the canucks. Bertuzzi is a great all around player, and Naslund is an amazing scorer. It is likely the Sedin's will play with Arvedson on line 2, but they have a lot of depth and it is hard to tell where everyone will play after the first line. Grade A-
On the Hot Seat: The Canucks need a good season out of Dan Cloutier. They really, truely do.
Overall Rating: B+
Outlook: The Vancouver Canucks are a great team. Normally I'd say that they could catch the 1, 2 or even 3 spot, however it's hard to have any weaknesses if you want one of those spots in the west. Vancouver is a great team, but their lack of a 5th and 6th dman could effect their chances of capturing home-ice advantage this season. 4th Western Conference
Chicago Blackhawks
Hawks look to fly together: The Chicago Blackhawks will look to take a lesson from their other flying companions the ducks. The Hawks have a fairly good club, but really lack team work. Last year a bar fight cost them the playoffs, this year they should reach the promised land.
Goaltenders: The Hawks' starter is Thibault. There backup is Passmore. Neither goalie is outstanding, yet neither is particularly horrible either. Thibault should get the job done, on a night to night basis. Grade C+
Defensemen: While the Blackhawks' defense isn't horrible, but it isn't exactly good either. Alexander Karpotsev is the closest thing they have to an all-star, and expect a lot out of Nathan Dempsey. Jon Klemm is descent too. But they are going to need more then descent to catch a playoff spot. Grade D+
Forwards: The Blackhawks bright spot is definately their offence. The speedy Stevie Sullivan leads the way, and he will be playing on a line which will likely consist of Alexei Zhamnov and Eric Daze. Theo Fluery, if he can stay out of trouble could be a surprise play on the 2nd line, and has the potential to contribute. Ronning will likely move to center and Kyle Calder will be the other winger on that line. The blackhawks have a lot of depth, but no clear players stick out to play on either of line 3 or 4. Grade B-
On the Hot Seat: The Blackhawks will be heavily relying on Joselyn Thibault who lacks defensive support.
Overall Rating: C
Outlook: The Chicago Blackhawks should make the playoffs, simply because they are a sub-par team and others aren't. 8th Western Conference
Columbus Blue Jackets
Super Mario joins team for opening day: Introducing to you the new look Columbus Blue Jackets. It is doubtful they are done revamping, but even now they look like the best team in the Western Conference.
Goaltenders: Columbus was blessed to acquire Arturs Irbe off the free-agent market this off-season, and Pascal Leclaire, may or may not be ready to be his backup. Irbe may be a little washed up, and they may not have the strongest goaltending in the league, but it'll be good enough to compete. Irbe is used to playing a lot of games, and he may have to do the same this season. Grade B-
Defensemen: The Blue Jackets are led on defense by All-Star veteran Al MacInnis. Big Al possesses one of the hardest shots in the MTSHL, and should be a strong play on the power play. Along side Al will be Alexei Zhitnik acquired in a trade for Rad. Klesla. It is likely that Ken Klee, Bryan Marchment, Scott Lachance and Luc Richardson will round out the troops. All could see time while killing penalties. Grade B-
Forwards: The Blue Jackets have some of the greatest forwards in the MTSHL. For starter, Mario Lemieux. Not enough can be said about the importance of Mario Lemieux. If he can remain healthy all year, they could capture first in the West. Cassels will likely center line 2, and Kozlov line 3. Alongside Lemieux, will likely be Pavol Demitra and Ryan Smyth. Owen Nolan, and Steve Heinze will likely play on 2. A number of other guys could make up the next 2 lines. Grade A+
Needs to step up: Arturs Irbe. The Pressure is on! (he may have to play close to 75 games this year)
Overall Rating: A-
Outlook: The Columbus Blue Jackets have made lots of headlines as a very active team ever since they came into the league. The addition of Mario shows they will stop at nothing to win the cup this year. Columbus could very well do that, and will likely take home-ice in the West, and have a very good shot at first. 3rd Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings
One more time for Stevie Y?: The Detroit Red Wings will be looking to win Lord Stanley's mug this year. The main reason is because if they don't, then captain Stevie Yzerman, will end his career without the glory of a cup in the MTSHL. Stevie wants nothing more then recieving a trophy from the Great Mr. T, and it is a possibility. The wings have a solid shot at home-ice advantage and first in the conference.
Goaltenders: The Red Wings are putting a lot of cash into their goaltending situation. No Doubt Best Trio in hockey. Hasek will be the one, Cujo the two, legacy the three. Cujo could become the one at any point during the season, and not to many pucks are expected to get passed these goalies. Grade A+++ (three goalies = makes them worthy of three plusses)
Defensemen: The Red Wings have a great defensive core. Niklas Lidstrom leads the way, and is probably the leagues best defenseman. Darian Hatcher and Chris Chelios will fight for the right to play alongside of him although it will likely be Hatcher. Schiender will play along side Chelios, and likely along side Lidstrom on the PP. Wooley and Fisher are 5 and 6. Grade A+
Forwards: The Red Wings offense is fairly good as well. Line 1 feautres a lot of experience and skill, in Steve Yzerman, Brendan Shanahan, and Brett Hull. Line 2 will likely feature Henrik Zetterberg, Ray Whittney and Pavel Datsyuk. There is a decline after this, but not too much. Grade B+
On the Hot Seat: The pressure really is off everyone this year. The team will have to work hard as a team to capture first, but likely won't have to work at all to simply make the playoffs.
Overall Rating: A
Outlook: The Detroit Red Wings are a great hockey team. The fact that they will let in close to zero goals this year, really makes you think about how well they COULD do, with a little help from their top 2 lines. 1st Western Conference
Nashville Predators
Sakic looks to lead preds into the postseason: The Nashville Predators have practically traded for a playoff spot when acquring Joe Sakic. Nothing is automatic, but the Preds will likely be in the post season this year, as a 7 or 8 team.
Goaltenders: The Predators found themselves stuck with Danny Abiesher after acquring Joe Sakic, however they feel Abeisher will have no trouble getting the job done, and is a small drop off from Tomas Vokoun. Expect Jamie Storr to see lots of action this year, and could play in close to 35 games as a healthy backup. Grade B
Defensemen: The Predators lost Kimmo Timonen, Andy Delmore and Bill Houlder, their top 3 defensemen when at even strength, shorthanded and on the power play. Jason York is the best they have now, but really, he isn't even worth of a number 4 spot on most teams. Grade Z (I'm sorry they don't even deserve an F. They are THAT bad!
Forwards: Leading the way is newly acquired centerman Joe Sakic. Scott Hartnell and Scott Walker will likely be his linemates. Line 2 will likely feature Greg Johnson, Andreas Johansson and one of Adam Hall or Marian Cisar. Who will play on three and four is unknown, although the preds have enough talent to not have to worry about it. Grade B
On the Hot Seat: Danny Abeisher. You entering your first year as a starter with the defense he has. It simply isn't fair.
Overall Rating: B-
Outlook: The Nashville Predators are a much better team now than they have ever been before. Joe Sakic is the clear answer to all their woes, but don't expect a miracle. Just a playoff spot. 7th Western Conference
St. Louis Blues
St.Louis feeling slightly Blue: The St. Louis Blues should only feel blue for one reason. The fact that they have to take the 6th spot by default. In the East they could be a number 1, but the strength of those 5 is just too strong to assume that St.Louis will capture home-ice advantage, and in fact likely will not.
Goaltenders: The Blues have a controversy in goal, which may or may not be a bad thing. On the one hand, the two will be in competition with each other for the starting job, and neither will be given a chance to get hot. No defensemen can really get the opportunity to be familiar with their goaltenders. However on the other hand, both goaltenders will have the extra motivation to play harder (prove they should be the starter) and it guarantees a solid backup. The two goalies by the way are Chris Osgood and Brent Johnson, although neither have been given the nod yet. Grade B-
Defensemen: The Blues have a fairly good defensive core. Chris Pronger is the heart and soul of the team and one of the top 3 defenders in the game (Blake and Lidstrom as the other 2). Pronger's line mate, Al MacInnis was traded in the offseason, so Pronger will now have a new mate. Pronger will likely be paired with Darryl Sydor. A late addition to the club. Khavanov and Jackman will be 3 and 4, while Murray Baron and Bryce Salvador will likely grab the last too spots. Grade B-
Forwards: It's Keith Tkachuk, Doug Weight, Todd Marchant and whomever else wants to step up to the task. A One line team? - No, it'll be a two line team, because Marchant will center someone good. Grade C+
On the Hot Seat: Chris Pronger. It's his team, he has to lead it.
Overall Rating: B-
Outlook: The St. Louis Blues have a good team but the top 5 teams are basically shoe-ins. Therefore the Blues will likely finish in 6th. 6th Western Conference
Season Predictions
Eastern Finals: NY Rangers over Toronto. Toronto has a great team for the playoffs. Likely if they can beat rival Montreal then they would play Ottawa in round 2 (yet another rivalry). Expect Toronto to beat Montreal and advance to the cup. The Rangers will have to knock of jersey, but their is a good possibility they COULD, and then take the east. Don't Count Out Montreal, Ottawa or Jersey taking the East either.
Western Finals: Detroit over Colorado. Detroit's defense and goaltending is too tough. Columbus won't last past round two with Irbe, and Colorado won't beat Detroit with Vokoun. The Stars, Canucks, and Jackets are still possible contenders.
Challenge Cup Champion: Detroit Red Wings. It's the final year for Stevie Y, and a cup may just happen. However expect a lot of pressure from Mario Lemieux and his Jackets in the West as well.
Scoring Champ: The Scoring Champ will probably end up being Pavel Bure, with Joe Sakic in Nashville as the underdog, with a chance. Bure playing along side Kovalev is a nice touch. (Modanno, Forsberg, Gaborik, Lemieux and Jagr, also have a chance).
Vezina Winner: Martin Brodeur. The starter on Detroit (either Hasek or Cujo) could have a shot too. The defence in NJ and DET make these goalies look good.
Norris Winner: Pronger over Lidstrom, MacInnis and Blake
Most Improved Team: Mario Lemieux and his Columbus Blue Jackets. With a doubt. The Blue Jackets started off as nothing, but look as though they have a shot at the cup. The team has gone from Zero to Hero in one month. What a makeover!