WEST

Central

Nashville – 120pts – Not much reason to doubt they build on last year’s result. Coach of the Year Barry Trotz.

Columbus – 95 pts – Offensive strengths will carry them, look for a big year for Carter.

Detroit – 85 pts – The wrong guys retired/left this year, Hasek won’t survive and the young guys are still a year away from dominating.

Chicago - 80 pts – 10 wins hang in the balance of the story of Ruutu’s health. Odd’s are against a happy ending.

St. Louis – 75 pts – Vastly improved with addition of McKee and Weight, but far from contending.

Pacific

Anaheim – 105 pts – Deepest team out there, Kunitz is the best kept secret in the league.

San Jose – 95 pts – Uninspiring defencemen the only thing standing between them and a cup run.

Los Angeles – 85 pts – A Clutier injury hangover makes me wary, as does the lack of an Avery trade.

Dallas – 75 pts – Curse of the Lindros, Turco the only thing standing between them and the basement.

Coyotes – 65 pts – Roster looks like a late 90’s all-star team, and that’s not a compliment.

Northwest

Calgary – 100pts – There’s a likely all-star at every single position.

Minnesota – 90pts – Aside from Gaborik its all steak, and no sizzle, meaning they will win the boring way.

Vancouver – 85pts – Huge upgrade in goal, but for the first time their season now hinges on the Sedins.

Colorado – 80pts – Sakic is done, Wolski, Svatos and Stastny will decide if they squeak into the playoffs or not.

Edmonton – 70 pts – They downgraded a roster that masterfully over-achieved last season, MacT can only do so much.

TOP 2 TEAMS COME PLAYOFF TIME:

Anaheim & Nashville

EAST CHAMPS:

Nashville Predators