April 8, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Dallas Stars celebrate the 4-0 victory against Anaheim Ducks following the third period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Stars
2016 Stanley Cup Odds: 66/1
Man, I know they aren’t exactly a defensive juggernaut with a stellar goaltender (starter Kari Lehtonen posted a .903 save percentage and 2.94 goals against average this season), but the Stars finished the season at 41-31-10, only seven points out of the final wild card spot. They finished second in the league in scoring at 3.13 goals a game and are led by Art Ross winner Jamie Benn and all-star Tyler Seguin. Despite missing 11 games due to injuries, Seguin tallied 37 goals and there is no reason to expect the duo, along with center Jason Spezza, won’t be one of most dangerous lines in hockey again next season.
There are issues on defense, but with just a shade under $56 million committed in salaries for next season, the Stars will have plenty of room to maneuver to obtain help on defense. Whether coach Lindy Ruff is the right person for the job to lead this team deep into the playoffs is another question, but on paper, they have pieces capable to win a title.
Dallas clearly isn’t a favorite to win the Stanley Cup. But even in a difficult division, the possible roster overhaul in St. Louis and Chicago could severely weaken the division and give Dallas the opportunity to sneak into the playoffs. And if there is anything we’ve learned over the past several years, you just need to get in. With the trio of Benn, Seguin, and Spezza leading the way, would you bet against them in a playoff series?