2015-16 NHL Season: Preview and Power Rankings
Jun 15, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks players pose for a team photo with the Stanley Cup after defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in game six of the 2015 Stanley Cup Final at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
The 2015-16 NHL season is right around the corner, with training camps opened up and the preseason is starting tomorrow. It’s time to look ahead at how the league will shake out when the 2015-16 NHL season reaches April. There are teams I believe made significant steps forward while others are stuck in reverse and already clear sellers at the trade deadline.
More From Too Many: Top Five Players Under 25-Years Old
The best teams in the NHL haven’t changed much over the last few seasons. The Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Ducks, and New York Rangers have been Stanley Cup contenders for a while. While these three teams should be in the mix again, the 2015-16 NHL season seems deeper with more contenders.
The big changes in the 2015-16 NHL season are at the bottom. Buffalo Sabres and Edmonton Oilers fans will have to look higher in the standings to find their teams this season. But how high? Can either team threaten to make the playoffs?
Throughout the league, I’m going to give you one reason the team can make the playoffs or win the Stanley Cup. What a successful season looks like and one player to watch during the 2015-16 NHL season for one reason or another. It could be someone on a new team, coming off an injury or a trade target.
That’s the best part of projections and power rankings. Teams make so many changes it’s tough to know how it all translates to the ice. This is how I see the 2015-16 NHL season starting out. So jump in, find your favorite team and tell me why your rival is ranked too high or too low.
Let’s get started at the bottom and work our way up!
Next: Number 30: Let The Rebuild Begin
May 21, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Maple Leafs new head coach Mike Babcock smiles as he arrives at an introductory media conference with club president Brendan Shanahan at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Number 30: Toronto Maple Leafs
The 2015-16 NHL season should look very different than the last few for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Instead of starting fast and giving their fans hope of the playoffs, this season should begin in the toilet and spiral out of control.
Not that there isn’t anything to look forward to in Toronto. New head coach Mike Babcock brings his impressive Olympic and Stanley Cup credentials to the Leafs bench. The future at center looks very promising with Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and Frederik Gauthier coming to the big club over the next few seasons.
None of that will translate to the 2015-16 NHL season. After the Phil Kessel trade to the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Maple Leafs have only six players age 30 or older. Take Stephane Robidas out of the mix and the oldest player suiting up for Toronto to start the 2015-16 NHL season is Pierre-Alexandre Parenteau at 32. Young teams need strong coaching and development, which Babcock will provide.
But the Leafs need picks to fill in on defense and at goaltender. That should be the focus before the All-Star break, not starting fast again and creating false hope. Count on big changes by seasons end too. There are only 11 players under contract beyond the 2015-16 NHL season and no guarantee any of them stay to finish this one. No player is safe on this roster, as it should be during a rebuild.
The Maple Leafs will make the playoffs if: I couldn’t type that with a straight face. Just, no.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: I’m torn between “seeing what Nylander can do with some experience in the second half” and “the goaltenders didn’t get killed”.
Player to watch: Nazem Kadri. On a one-year, $4.1 million dollar bridge deal before becoming an RFA, Kadri could wind up having a great season and solidifying his future with the Maple Leafs. He could also get moved at the trade deadline. With the coming depth at center and Kadri being only 24, the Leafs could move on from him and get important picks and prospects for the rebuild.
It’s going to be an ugly 2015-16 NHL season for the Toronto Maple Leafs. But there is a direction to the team now. When this season is over the future will be brighter in Toronto. Not before a season of pure hell.
Next: Number 29: The Devils Went Down The Standings
Apr 9, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; New Jersey Devils center Scott Gomez (21) and teammates celebrate as he assisted a goal during the second period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Number 29: New Jersey Devils
If this plays out in the 2015-16 NHL season as I believe it does, at least the New Jersey Devils can root for lottery odds and say they aren’t the Leafs. The Devils offense is led by a player a few years past his prime in Patrick Elias, only one 20-goal scorer in Mike Cammalleri, and Adam Henrique, who led the team with a whopping 43 points. WOOF.
It’s not all a disaster in New Jersey. Henrique and Kyle Palmieri are both still young, but neither is the game-breaking scorer the Devils need. Adam Larsson could be a staple on the back-end for years but with depth issues there as well, it’s tough to see the young talent beyond the overall state of the team.
New Jersey Devils
The one unquestionable stud on the roster is goaltender, Corey Schneider. At the time, trading the ninth overall pick for a backup goalie seemed insane but the Devils got their franchise goaltender. Hopefully, the Devils can put a better team in front of Schneider beyond the 2015-16 NHL season and avoid wasting his tremendous talent in the bottom five of the league.
The New Jersey Devils will make the playoffs if: Corey Schneider wins the Vezina, Hart and Rocket Richard trophies.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: trade what you can for picks with Schneider the only untouchable. Get first-round pick Pavel Zacha his nine games in the NHL before sending him back to the AHL. See where he is in his development. Zacha could be an absolute stud.
Player to watch: Damon Severson. Entering his second year there, is the whole sophomore slump possibility along with playing on a terrible team. Severson could be one of the bright spots.
Next: Number 28: Beginning to Rise in Arizona
Apr 11, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; The Arizona Coyotes Paw Patrol ice crew pose for a photo during the third period against the Anaheim Ducks at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Number 28: Arizona Coyotes
I realize plus/minus isn’t the best stat to use when looking at how good a player is or isn’t. In the context of a team, it can be a little more revealing. For example if your team had exactly one player for the entire season wind up a plus player, your team might have some issues. Congratulations, Rob Klinkhammer! You and your plus three.
The leading scorer was defensemen Oliver Ekman-Larsson who is one of the most exciting players to watch in the game. Seriously, if you live out East, you owe it to yourself to stay up and watch a Coyotes game and follow #23. Time well spent.
Arizona Coyotes
This is still a team that’s going to struggle scoring goals. If not for Jaromir Jagr we might be talking about Shane Doan as the player that just keeps on producing. The problem for Arizona is Doan is in decline. While still an important player for leadership and scoring, expectations for the 2015-16 NHL season need to be measured. Antoine Vermette signed, giving the team a more offensive punch, but the overall depth issues will have the Coyotes struggling to score again.
Not for long. Max Domi and Anthony Duclair are both close to making the roster this year. Top pick Dylan Strome doesn’t need to be rushed but his mere presence provides added depth to the Coyotes future. The problem about the future is Mike Smith is still the now. I don’t see him bouncing back very far from last years’ terrible season, which will help keep the Arizona Coyotes near the bottom throughout the 2015-16 NHL season.
The Arizona Coyotes will make the playoffs if: Oliver Ekman-Larsson breaks Wayne Gretzky’s single-season scoring record.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: get Domi, Duclair, Louis Domingue and other prospects as ready as you can for the second half of the season. Bring them up, get experience and get ready for 2016-17.
Player to watch: If Max Domi makes the opening night roster, he easily can earn a nomination for the Calder Trophy. Arizona has an electric scorer in Domi.
Next: Bumber 27: No Sense Boarding Up For This Hurricane
Mar 26, 2015; Raleigh, NC, USA; Carolina Hurricanes goalie Anton Khudobin (31) congratulates teammate goalie Cam Ward (30) after the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PNC Arena. The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-2. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Number 27: Carolina Hurricanes
Despite seeing excellent returns last year on a few young players, the Carolina Hurricanes are set to have a difficult 2015-16 NHL season. Primarily because their incumbent goaltender is like eight-day expired milk. You think it’s ok to use it one more time, and the results predictably end in disaster.
It’s hard to believe Cam Ward is only 31, but he has faltered faster than an NFL running back turning 30. GM Ron Francis saw the need to improve in the crease and brought in Eddie Lack, who had better numbers last season in Vancouver than Ryan Miller.
Carolina Hurricanes
Outside of the goaltending this is still a team with not enough NHL talent on the roster. Jordan Staal is often injured; Eric Staal is productive but getting older, and Jeff Skinner is talented but on the trading block. Successful teams don’t trade young players with term on their deal and proven production. Rebuilding teams do that. That’s exactly what the 2015-16 NHL season brings for the Carolina Hurricanes.
The roster isn’t void of talent, though. Elias Lindholm and Victor Rask showed promise down the middle last season and will be relied on for more production in the 2015-16 NHL season. Justin Faulk was the second-leading scorer on defense and a true bright spot as a number one defenseman. Behind him over the next few years are top picks Noah Hanifin and Haydn Fleury.
Those three defensemen will make Carolina’s defense one of the league’s best. Just not for the 2015-16 NHL season. This might not be a team in full fire sale mode, but they aren’t buyers at the deadline either. Patience should be the rule the season and allow younger players to gain valuable experience.
The Carolina Hurricanes make the playoffs if: Ron Francis has a time machine back to 2009.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Eddie Lack takes the starting job from Cam Ward, and Jeff Skinner doesn’t wind up with another concussion.
Player to watch: Elias Lindholm. Imagine his production once the Hurricanes can put a little more talent around him. Lindholm is a top-two center and still growing. Learning from Eric Staal helps.
Next: Avalanche Means Sliding Down
Apr 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Members of the Colorado Avalanche celebrate the win over the Chicago Blackhawks at the Pepsi Center. The Avalanche defeated the Blackhawks 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Number 26: Colorado Avalanche
For all the talent, Colorado has put together it baffles me they aren’t a better team. At least it did until I checked out war-on-ice.com and saw how awful the possession numbers were at even strength.
That’s when most of hockey is played. If you aren’t good at even strength, you aren’t a good hockey team. On top of that the Avs traded away a top scorer in Ryan O’Reilly after what felt like a career of negotiating contracts angrily in the media. His production will still need replacing.
One of the players coming back in the trade is Mikhail Grigorenko, who never caught on in Buffalo. Now he plays for Patrick Roy, his coach from juniors, and has a chance to prove he’s an impact player in the NHL. Carl Soderberg and Blake Comeau join the Avalanche for the 2015-16 NHL season from Boston and Pittsburgh, respectively, and make Colorado a deeper team up front.
None of these new players will be asked to carry the weight Gabriel Landeskog and Nathan MacKinnon will. Landeskog has scored over twenty goals in his first two full seasons but faces added pressure as a young, talented team struggles to take the next step forward. MacKinnon only played 64 games, and his production suffered as a result. A big 2015-16 NHL season from the former top pick can propel the Avalanche closer to playoff contention.
Only if the team can keep the puck away from their goaltenders. For all the speed, Tyson Barrie has once you get beyond him and Erik Johnson, you find an aging Brad Stuart and depth issues. Bringing in Nikita Zadorov is a good start to not giving up the fifth most shots per game by average last season. Keep doing that, it won’t matter what Semyon Varlamov, Calvin Pickard or any goaltender will stop. The numbers say you’re getting beat.
The Colorado Avalanche will make the playoffs if every team in California quits the NHL and forms a new league. Remember pro beach hockey? It could happen.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: MacKinnon stays healthy (as does the rest of the team – OUCH!), scores 30, and the Avs stay in the playoff hunt until the final two weeks. The blue line needs to show growth.
Player to watch: Nikita Zadorov. The key to the O’Reilly trade, Zadorov showed improvement throughout his rookie season but also struggled with off-ice attendance and communication. Nothing serious, just young player stuff. If he matures as expected, he’s an anchor on the Avs blue line for the next decade.
Apr 7, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Flyers center Brayden Schenn (10) celebrates his game-winning goal with center Zac Rinaldo (36) and center Vincent Lecavalier (40) with three seconds left in the game against the New York Islanders during the third period at Wells Fargo Center. The Flyers defeated the Islanders, 5-4. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Number 25: Philadelphia Flyers
The Philadelphia Flyers owned their cross-state rivals last season, going 4-0 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. This offseason some fans are trying to own them. If only the Flyers were as good against the rest of the league.
More specifically the Flyers need more points on the road. Last season, Philadelphia was an impressive twelve games over .500 at home. On the road, the season was much less impressive, posting a record ten games under .500.
Part of the record was due to poor goaltending – it’s Philadelphia, go figure. Don’t blame Steve Mason for that. His win/loss record wasn’t great, but that .928 save percentage is great. Gone is Ray Emery and in his place is what’s left of Michal Neuvirth. It’s a good thing he’s had all offseason to rest after the beating he and the other Buffalo Sabres goaltenders took last year.
Neuvirth is an instant upgrade and is capable of starting for long stretches should Mason get hurt. The Flyers have a very nice tandem now. The defense in front of them is getting better, too. Veterans Mark Streit and Nick Schultz are joined by Samuel Morin and Shayne Gostisbehere, both of whom can carry more minutes in the 2015-16 NHL season. Add in Luke Schenn and Michael Del Zotto and this defense starts to look pretty nice.
The Flyers can certainly light the lamp too. Jakub Voracek, Claude Giroux, and Wayne Simmonds were the top three goal scorers from last season and likely are again. But beyond the top six scorers the Flyers are getting almost nothing. If the Flyers want to contend for a playoff spot, they need more offense from their bottom two lines. Adding Sam Gagner is a good start. If he plays on the top six, that bumps other players down into roles with more favorable match-ups.
I struggled to put the Flyers this low on my ranking. There is plenty of talent here, including Voracek and Giroux whom could be in the Art Ross conversation. With a little more balance in production and development of youth on the blue line, the Flyers can move up this list in a hurry. I just need to see it on the ice.
The Philadelphia Flyers will make the playoffs if: The young defense avoids large streaks of inconsistency that usually comes with learning the position. If Gostisbehere and Morin stick and make considerable strides, this is a much better team.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Reaching 92 points. This would be an 8 point jump over last season, an impressive number given the young defense. Not going 3-11 in shootouts should help. Improved goaltending makes up part of that number.
Player to watch: Gostisbehere. I can’t spend all that time talking about the youth on defense and not focus on one of them. He’s lacking in size but has the offensive skill to complement the big forwards. I’m looking for him on the power play in particular.
Next: Number 24: Bruins Sliding Backwards
Jul 29, 2015; Foxboro, MA, USA; Boston Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs poses with a Winter Classic puck during a press conference for the Winter Classic hockey game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Number 24: Boston Bruins
How about that offseason, Bruins fans? If you’re feeling good about the 2015-16 NHL season after watching Carl Soderberg, Reilly Smith, Milan Lucic and amazingly Dougie Hamilton find new homes; then you’re either an eternal optimist or spoiled by your football team.
This offseason felt like a team going through an identity crisis. Moving on from veterans makes sense when you are building for the future or moving your youth onto the NHL stage. Part of that youth was Hamilton, who now is part of a frighteningly talented and fast Calgary Flames team.
Then you go and spend three first round picks who haven’t made the best first impression. Sprinkle in an aging Hall of Famer in Zdeno Chara and you have Patrice Bergeron, and Tuukka Rask left to hold together what was at one time a Stanley Cup favorite more often than not.
Not that Brad Marchand, Loui Erickson or Torey Krug aren’t nice players. But if you’re counting on these guys leading the charge toward the playoffs, you’re not getting there. David Pastrnak made some nice contributions last year, but Boston is still further out of the playoffs than in, even if he scores 30.
The Bruins are facing major questions heading into the 2015-16 NHL season. After the offseason they had even the most loyal Bruins fan has to wonder how they get answered.
The Boston Bruins make the playoffs if Tom Brady can also play second line center and get 65 points.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Pick a direction and stick with it. Time to start figuring out who the core of this team is and look to trade the rest of the veterans. Bergeron and Rask feel safe. Nobody else.
Player to watch: Chara. He would wind up traded. He could also wind up playing like he’s 29 and be in the Norris Trophy hunt. It is clear that he isn’t the player he was a few years ago. Time remains undefeated. But I’m not betting against a good 2015-16 NHL season from him.
Next: Another Team Fearing A Rebuild
Mar 29, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins left wing Chris Kunitz (14) scores past San Jose Sharks goalie Alex Stalock (32) during the first period at the CONSOL Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Number 23: San Jose Sharks
There has been no more frustrating team over the last several seasons than the San Jose Sharks. Coming into the 2015-16 NHL season that shouldn’t be the case. Finally, expectations for this tortured franchise have been tempered and rightly so in a loaded Western Conference.
Sure the best players are still there. Patrick Marleau and Joe Thornton continue to defy aging and produce near the top of the league. Along with Thornton, Joe Pavelski, and Logan Couture provide one of the NHL’s best top three center groups.
San Jose Sharks
While center is a position of strength, the Sharks got almost nothing out of their wingers last year. After Marleau’s 57 points, the next best winger is Matt Nieto with 27 points. Nieto is still young and has scored ten goals in each of his first two seasons. A boost there would help solve part of the wing crisis in San Jose.
There is also big pressure on the defense and goaltending when you look at how poor a possession team the Sharks were last season. Brent Burns and Marc-Edouard Vlasic are a nice start but if your team is getting outscored 5-on-5 despite holding possession more often than the opponent, you’ve got issues.
Do Sharks fans trust GM Doug Wilson to fit them? According to hockeysfuture.com, the Sharks don’t exactly boast world-beating talent ready to arrive. Will Wilson trade an aging-yet-productive veteran to get young players or prospects? Or will he keep Thornton just to have another season ripping him in the media?
Lastly, there are questions in goal with both Alex Stalock and Martin Jones getting a chance to replace Antti Niemi. Both have looked good in stretches, but neither has been asked to play much until this season. Add San Jose to a list of teams with questions about young, unproven goaltenders. I need to see results over a larger sample size before I push San Jose higher in the 2015-16 NHL season rankings.
The San Jose Sharks will make the playoffs if: Doug Wilson stops trying to be the smartest guy in the room and gives new coach Peter DeBoer the depth he needs to battle the stacked Western Conference.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: hate to beat the dead horse, but if Doug Wilson is fired this team can finally get a hard restart. If the Sharks struggle early with a new coach, Wilson’s seat should and will get hot. Let a new GM make the roster decisions Wilson won’t.
Player to watch: Tomas Hertl. Is his development being hurt being the fourth center? He’s young at 21, and the Sharks need to know what they have in him. After a bit of a sophomore slump, I expect Hertl to bounce back strong and make one of those ahead of him on the depth chart expendable at some point during the 2015-16 NHL season.
Next: Number 22: Top Draft Picks To Pay Off This Year
Jul 2, 2015; Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; NHL draft number one pick Connor McDavid , front left, listens to the description of a play with his teammates during the Edmonton Oilers rookie camp at the Rexall Center. Mandatory Credit: Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports
Number 22: Edmonton Oilers
If great teams are falling that means historically bad ones are rising. Oilers fans shouldn’t believe the 2015-16 NHL season will look anything like the 1980’s yet. But they can stop looking for Edmonton’s record at the bottom of the league.
The offense should give opponents nightmares. Taylor Hall, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Jordan Eberle, Nail Yakupov, and Connor McDavid have speed and skill enough to give anyone in the league trouble. It still has to come together, on the ice, but this is a hell of a start for your forward crew. It also allows Benoit Pouliot opportunity for more favorable matchups which should boost his production.
On defense, the Oilers have also made significant improvements. Andrew Ference remains the elder statesman of the team, but the youth and potential around him should have Oilers fans excited for the 2015-16 NHL season. Young defensemen Oscar Klefbom and Justin Schultz won’t have to carry massive minutes with Nikita Nikitin and newcomer Andrej Sekera providing stability and some offense. Behind them, Darnell Nurse and Griffin Reinhart don’t have to be rushed into the NHL. Defense in Edmonton improved over seasons past.
A big part of that is the goaltending. Cam Talbot gets the chance to show he is more than a product of a solid defensive New York Rangers system and talent. Talbot won’t have to be excellent for the Oilers to make a big jump in the 2015-16 NHL season. If he is, Edmonton can start thinking of the playoffs for the first time in years.
Inheriting talent sure helps, but new GM Peter Chiarelli is in line for GM of the year consideration if the Oilers can dramatically improve. I see him getting the nod because I don’t see him being done adding to the roster. Watch Edmonton as buyers this year, not sellers.
The Edmonton Oilers will make the playoffs if: they can slow their big guns up front down enough to improve possession and quality of chances, not just quantity. Don’t play like it’s 1984, you won’t need your defense or goalie to bail you out. The more controlled Edmonton is, the better they will be.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Yakupov continues to progress, McDavid is 75% of what people think he is, and Talbot is the definitive answer long-term in goal.
Player to watch: Taylor Hall. His name came up in trade conversations last season. At some point, Chiarelli will decide who he will and won’t pay. This feels like an important year for Hall, who should be very productive, but it might not be enough.
Next: Number 21: Sabres Return To Competitive Hockey
Jun 26, 2015; Sunrise, FL, USA; Jack Eichel poses with team executives after being selected as the number two overall pick to the Buffalo Sabres in the first round of the 2015 NHL Draft at BB&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Number 21: Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres will start the 2015-16 NHL season expected to make one of the greatest single season improvements in league history. It’s hard to imagine the Sabres – or any team – being worse than the last 164 games Buffalo has played.
I hope you got your laughs in the last two seasons. For a team that couldn’t score goals for anything, Buffalo will have no such trouble this year. Their new group of top six forwards includes Evander Kane, Ryan O’Reilly, Tyler Ennis and 2015 second overall pick, Jack Eichel. Add in Zemgus Girgensons, Matt Moulson, and Jamie McGinn and, on paper, the Sabres have fire-power to skate with almost anyone.
The defense took a step forward this offseason as well. Adding Cody Franson as a second-pair, right-handed shot along with Zach Bogosian and Josh Georges gives the Sabres a nice mix of veteran defensemen to play with Rasmus Ristolainen, Mark Pysyk and possibly Jake McCabe. Mike Weber rounds out an upgraded and balanced defensive unit.
The biggest question for the Sabres heading into the 2015-16 NHL season is in goal. Gone are the days of Dominik Hasek handing the crease to Martin Biron and then Ryan Miller. There is a clear number one in Buffalo, but Robin Lehner still has much to prove. He’s going to get the opportunity to take the crease in Buffalo but needs his health to do it.
That’s been a problem for Lehner. Sabres GM Tim Murray moved a first-round pick in a very deep draft for Lehner and David Legwand. If Lehner can’t stay on the ice, potential won’t matter. Murray is very familiar with Lehner from their days together in Ottawa and apparently believed the price was right to get him.
I have the Sabres one spot ahead of the Oilers because of the conference in which they play. If Edmonton were in the East, well, Gary Bettman would need concussion protocol but the Oilers would be ranked ahead of the Sabres. That said, I expect the Sabres to start slow as the 2015-16 NHL season begins. As the experience gains and the chemistry grows, the Buffalo Sabres could be among the top five teams in the league after the All-Star break.
The Buffalo Sabres will make the playoffs if: Robin Lehner goes full Andrew Hammond. Realistically, the Sabres are still a year away.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: 85 points and figuring out what they have in Lehner. If he is legit, and this team comes together the way I believe, this is a “home ice advantage in the first round” team. They could get scary FAST.
Player to watch: Picking Eichel or Lehner is easy, so I’ll go Evander Kane. He left Winnipeg with baggage in the locker room. How much of that is real or not, very few know. But he is a natural goal scorer and a leader on this team. Let’s see what the change of scenery does for him.
Next: Number 20: Roar Returning To South Florida?
Apr 9, 2015; Sunrise, FL, USA; Florida Panthers right wing Jaromir Jagr (68) sits on the boards during the announcement that he has recorded 1,800 points in his career with an assist on a goal by center Jonathan Huberdeau (11) in the third period of a game against the Boston Bruins at BB&T Center. The Panthers won 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
Number 20: Florida Panthers
When seeding the next eight to ten teams for the 2015-16 NHL season, I got to the point where I could argue a team anywhere from twelfth to twentieth. This is the group of teams I can see making or missing the playoffs depending on how things break. Such is the case for the Florida Panthers.
The experience of just missing the playoffs last season should help young studs Jonathan Huberdeau, Aaron Ekblad, Nick Bjugstad and Aleksander Barkov. The Panthers have a dynamic core of young talent supported by the ageless wonder, Jaromir Jagr, and players like Dave Bolland looking to bounce back from a rough start in Toronto.
Florida Panthers
Florida will put a solid defense in front of goaltender Roberto Luongo. On top of Norris Trophy candidate Ekblad, the Panthers have Brian Campbell as the reliable veteran, Erik Gudbranson and Dmitri Kulikov adding to the youth movement and Willie Mitchell, the captain with Stanley Cups.
The Florida Panthers should compete for the playoffs in the 2015-16 NHL season. Last season’s experience and Jagr juju should help fuel another strong season in South Florida. With the Bruins sliding back and other potential playoff teams facing big questions, the last four spots should be wide open.
The Florida Panthers make the playoffs if: the young defense plays sound in their zone and improves their point production. The defense doesn’t have to score a ton of goals, but making that breakout pass the way Campbell and Ekblad can get the forwards involved in the transition. The growth on defense will determine the Panthers fate.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: take the next step. Win the big games in March and April and make the playoffs. Be more than a fun story until April 1st.
Player to watch: The Panthers games I watched last season I enjoyed watching Dmitri Kulikov. Physical and aggressive, maybe too much so. More controlled aggression and a little more offensive upside would go a long way to helping the Panthers improve. He’s not a Norris Trophy candidate, but his absence would be a major blow to this defense.
Next: Number 19: Questionable Offseason Leads To Uncertain Regular Season
Apr 25, 2015; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Vancouver Canucks players reacts to the goal by Calgary Flames left wing Jiri Hudler (not pictured) during the third period in game six of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 7-4. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Number 19: Vancouver Canucks
Another perennial playoff contender on the slide, the Vancouver Canucks finished second in the Pacific Division last season. They were promptly whacked by the faster and more skilled Calgary Flames in the opening round. Did how the Canucks responded set them up well for the 2015-16 NHL season?
No. The skill players for Vancouver such as Daniel Sedin, his twin brother Henrik Sedin, Alexandre Burrows and Radim Vrbata are all 34-years old. The decline is almost inevitable. In fact, the Canucks have nine players over the age of 30. Are they being complemented with enough young talent?
No. Not that Bo Horvat and Sven Baertschi aren’t good players. Horvat stuck in the NHL straight out of the draft that is impressive. Baertschi is a former first-round pick still trying to find his touch in the NHL. His career high of three goals (ten for his career) are more than I’ll ever have, but not impressive for a first round pick. Will he find his groove in Vancouver?
The Vancouver defense was offensive but not in a good way. Yannick Weber and Dan Hamhuis lead the offense from the blue line with eleven goals and 31 points, respectively. But this defense needs greater contributions five-on-five. A 9th ranked power play, and 2nd ranked penalty kill are nice, but if you’re getting your brains beat in at even strength that’s a lot of pressure on your goaltender.
Particularly when you trade the wrong one. Eddie Lack had a better overall save percentage and wound up traded for his efforts to make room for Jacob Markstrom. The same Markstrom that looked great in Utica (yes, I saw him) but seemed overmatched in limited time in the NHL. It was one of many curious decisions for Vancouver, none of which shapes up for a good 2015-16 NHL season. With Calgary improving and Los Angeles and Dallas bouncing back, the Canucks will miss the playoffs in the 2015-16 NHL season.
The Vancouver Canucks will make the playoffs if: Not happening. The middle of the West has passed them by. Unless Ryan Miller goes 2010 Olympics, the Sedin’s won’t be able to carry the Canucks.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Get younger. Find a way to accumulate more picks and prospects. Staying the course only ends in disaster. Commit to the rebuild. Trading the Sedin’s would be considered a success.
Player to watch: Jacob Markstrom. He’s going to hit his share of starts if Miller’s recent injury history and age are any indications. Can he prove he’s the number one goaltender after Miller?
Next: Number 18: Jets Grounded Due To Conference Turbulence?
Apr 22, 2015; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; The Winnipeg Jets celebrate their season after losing the series to the Anaheim Ducks by thanking the fans after the third period in game four of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Winnipeg Jets at MTS Centre. Anaheim wins the game 5-2 and sweeps the series 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports
Number 18: Winnipeg Jets
There was no harder team for me to rank for the 2015-16 NHL season than the Winnipeg Jets. A playoff team last year with talent in their prime up and down the roster. So why do I have the Jets on the outside looking in for the 2015-16 NHL season?
Because despite having a great balance of veterans and youth, the Jets had a quiet offseason. Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars added a goal scorer, a veteran defenseman, and better backup goaltender. The Los Angeles Kings are still strong and may be even better on defense this season. The Jets haven’t done much of anything yet.
Winnipeg Jets
That’s going to change soon regarding Dustin Byfuglien. The big defenseman is due for a new contract and certainly will expect a raise, which will either cause GM Kevin Cheveldayoff to move other players to keep him or move Byfuglien. Was Cheveldayoff planning for his departure last season in getting Tyler Myers?
Beyond Byfuglien, the 2015-16 NHL season is important for young talents Jacob Trouba, Alexander Burmistrov, and Mark Scheifele. All three need big seasons if the Jets hold off Dallas and Los Angeles for the playoffs. Drew Stafford finding his 30-goal touch again is big in replacing Michael Frolik. Stafford seemed to find his jump and touch again after being traded. If he can do that for a full season, the Jets will be in better shape.
I do expect a regression from Ondrej Pavelec in the 2015-16 NHL season which will hold the Jets back. Pavelec had a four-year regression in his overall and 5-on-5 save percentages until taking a big step forward last season. Looking at his career arc, I think last season was an exception. Michael Hutchinson is a solid backup but doesn’t have enough games in his career to know what he is yet. He will get them this year if Pavelec struggles.
The Winnipeg Jets will make the playoffs if: Ondrej Pavelec has an above-average season compared to his career. I expect the top two lines to be electric and the top defensemen to perform well. The Jets need one more defenseman for the 2015-16 NHL season, particularly if Byfuglien is traded. A depth center to win faceoffs couldn’t hurt with these awful numbers.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Make the playoffs and win a round. When you have a young team like the Jets, experience matters. The Anaheim series looked lopsided on paper, but the could have easily been 2-2 after four games instead of a sweep. What lessons were learned from that experience?
Player to watch: Burmistrov. First-round selection and only 23 years old but not in the NHL the last two seasons. The 2015-16 NHL season is the time for Burmistrov to deliver on his potential.
Next: Number 17: Jackets Can't Be THAT Injured Again - Can They?
Apr 8, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Ryan Murray (27) celebrates scoring a goal with teammates on the bench against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Number 17: Columbus Blue Jackets
Last season was one to forget for the Blue Jackets. Columbus lost over 500 games to injuries with only the Avalanche being within 140 games. I’m sure the Jackets won the three games they were at full strength, but there was no overcoming that last season. The 2015-16 NHL season can’t be a repeat, can it?
When healthy the top scorers are in place. Nick Foligno and Ryan Johansson both nearly went for a point per game and Scott Hartnell is still a 30-goal threat. Brandon Dubinsky, Johansson, and newcomer Gregory Campbell give the Blue Jackets good depth and ability down the middle.
Beyond the top scorers, there are several young, talented players poised to break out. When I watched the Jackets, Boone Jenner jumped out at me as exciting and physical with some scoring ability. Columbus has some serious talent and grit down the middle leading this club.
The wingers needed an upgrade, and it came in the form of Brandon Saad. I’m not sure the Blue Jackets won that trade. Saad will provide instant impact for the 2015-16 NHL season, but that was quite the price paid for him.
Depth on defense looks like a concern for the 2015-16 NHL season. Adding depth to Jack Johnson, Fedor Tyutin, and David Savard must be a priority if Columbus plans on not only making the playoffs but doing damage. Kevin Connauton broke out last year, and Dalton Prout has great size and physicality. But last season’s lessons need to be applied to the 2015-16 NHL season. The Blue Jackets one more defenseman.
The only question about goaltending will be who gets the 15-18 games “Officer Bob” doesn’t suit up. Sergei Bobrovsky is the clear number one but getting points when he rests will be significant in a fast-improving Eastern Conference. Curtis McElhinney has the inside track on the job, but Anton Forsberg is still on the roster.
The Columbus Blue Jackets will make the playoffs if: they manages to score more goals than team ER visits. Stay healthy, get a few points out of the bottom two lines and the Jackets will be in when the 2015-16 NHL season ends. And they’ll be a tough out. I just need to see it happen before moving them higher.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Make the playoffs. Plenty of youth on this team needs that experience to continue growing. The time is now.
Player to watch: If Brandon Saad is the same player he was in Chicago, he’s going to open a lot of ice up for his teammates to step up and produce.
Next: Number 16: The Team The West Doesn't Want In The Playoffs
Apr 11, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Kings defenseman Brayden McNabb (3) is greeted by Los Angeles Kings center Tyler Toffoli (73) after scoring a goal in the third period of the game against the San Jose Sharks at Staples Center. Kings won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Number 16: Los Angeles Kings
The stress level of a Los Angeles Kings fan has to be through the roof. Nibble around the playoffs, sneak in with one or two games left in the season, then go on a 16-3 style bender and win the Stanley Cup.
I don’t expect the 2015-16 NHL season to be any different. Looking at the roster it feels the Kings fans could ask themselves “why aren’t we better in the regular season?” just as easily as “who are we selling at the trade deadline?”. Being that close to eights place for that long does it to you.
Los Angeles Kings
The top three centers are excellent in Anze Kopitar (SIGN HIM ALREADY!!!!), Jeff Carter, and Tyler Toffoli. Marian Gaborik is still half-witch in my eyes for scoring goals, still a tough player to defend. Drew Doughty is an annual Norris Trophy candidate, and Jake Muzzin broke out with a career year in 2014-15.
But who else is scoring goals for this team? Even if you think Jonathan Quick is elite, he needs goal support. That’s the big question in the 2015-16 NHL season. Sure they only scored two goals fewer than the Blackhawks. But they were fourth worst in the Western Conference. And Milan Lucic isn’t THAT prolific on the score sheet. Unless Los Angeles wants to play in the East, the 2015-16 NHL season will be another nail biter for the playoffs.
The Los Angeles Kings will make the playoffs if: they figure out scoring depth. Whether that’s Kyle Clifford or Tanner Pearson or someone else, the Kings can’t keep relying on Quick and that defense to win tight games.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: cutting the playoffs so close is apparently only stressing out some fans. Because once they get in, they’re damn near a lock for the Western Conference Final. That’s been their M.O. So just get in. Once they’re in they will terrify their opponent because of how tough they are to eliminate.
Player to watch: Dustin Brown. He is 30-years old and in his last two full seasons hasn’t scored 30 points. I know he’s the captain but if this is what Brown is the Kings need to find him a new home during or after the 2015-16 NHL season. With his cap number what it is, good luck with that.
Next: Last Seasons Surprise - This Seasons Contender?
Apr 26, 2015; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators fans cheer during the third period against Montreal Canadiens in the game six of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports
Number 15: Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Senators are a tough team to project into the 2015-16 NHL season. On one hand, Ottawa is a young team with plenty of goal-scorers. Mark Stone emerged in the second half of last season as a big-time threat. Kyle Turris and Mika Zibanejad both went over twenty goals and Mark Hoffman surprised and led the team in goals. We haven’t got to Bobby Ryan either.
On the other hand are questions about the defense and goaltending. Two-time Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson is a monster but as a unit the Senators gave up the sixth most shots in the league last year. They were the worst playoff team in terms of this number.
As a unit it’s important the Senators tighten up, a task more difficult without Chris Phillips. A setback in his rehab will stretch into the 2015-16 NHL season. Without Phillips, the Senators only have six defensemen on the roster. That’s an issue that must be taken care of before the season starts.
Behind the defense are two goaltenders nearly a lock to regress. Craig Anderson has been more up and down the last five seasons than an elevator. Anderson has these save percentages since arriving in Ottawa in the 2009-10 season: .939, .914, .941, .911, .923. Assuming the pattern holds the 2015-16 NHL season should see Anderson post something in the .913 area.
Andrew Hammond is now the clear backup with Robin Lehner now in Buffalo. If you believe Hammond can post the absurd .941 save percentage again over 24 starts, you’re thinking he’s the second coming of Dominik Hasek or I have swamp land in Florida I’d like to sell you. It’s not that Hammond can’t be good. I don’t believe he can be THAT good again. The law of averages will catch up to Hammond.
It won’t help the Senators that the 2015-16 NHL season won’t have a historically bad team to take advantage of. Ottawa took seven of eight points against the Sabres, the only team the Senators didn’t lose a game to in regulation. Between the bottom of the division getting better and the goaltenders expected a step back, Ottawa will spend the final weeks of the 2015-16 NHL season fighting for the playoffs.
The Ottawa Senators will make the playoffs if: the defensive depth issues are addressed, and this unit can collectively make up for the drop in goaltending.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: when you make the playoffs the expectation is to keep moving forward. If Ottawa can get in again, I think that is a step forward.
Player to watch: Craig Anderson. He can be excellent, he can be average, he can be hurt. If Anderson drops too far, so will the Senators.
Next: Number 14: Explosive Offense In The Igloo
Apr 24, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Nick Spaling (13) celebrates with right wing Steve Downie (23) and center Sidney Crosby (87) after scoring a goal on New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) during the second period in game five of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Number 14: Pittsburgh Penguins
At this point in the 2015-16 NHL season rankings I’m hitting teams that, for one reason or another, I could see winning their respective conference. Much of that depends on playoffs match-ups and health. Starting here we get into some serious contenders to do more than just make a good playoff run.
When the Penguins traded for Phil Kessel, it gave them three of the most feared goal-scorers in the NHL. At the time, that and Marc-Andre Fleury was about it, and Pittsburgh was on their way to the 1980’s trying to outgun the opponents.
Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are the most dynamic 1-2 combo in the league. Adding Kessel is terrifying. All three players are a threat to break 40 goals in the 2015-16 NHL season, which would be refreshing since neither Crosby nor Malkin netted thirty last year.
As the offseason went along the depth concerns for Pittsburgh began to go away. Joining the Penguins for the 2015-16 NHL season are Eric Fehr, Nick Bonino, and David Perron. Fehr can play in the top six while Bonino and Perron are depth additions.
Also coming back after beating cancer is Olli Maatta. Before his health issues knocked him out of the lineup, Maatta was proving his worth as a top-four defenseman and adding to the offense. With no other defenseman on the Penguins besides Kris Letang getting over twenty points, plugging Maatta back in makes both the defense and offense better.
In the crease, Fleury draws the ire of fans who don’t see him as a number one goaltender. His numbers say otherwise. He’s a workhorse who hasn’t had a save percentage under .910 since 2009-10. Expect another very good to a great season from “Flower”.
The main reason I have Pittsburgh this low to start the 2015-16 NHL season is I need to see how the bottom six forwards contribute. Plenty of changes happened in the forward ranks and chemistry takes time. If the bottom half of the roster comes together, this is a team to fear in the 2015-16 NHL season.
The Pittsburgh Penguins will make the playoffs if: they stay healthy. The top of the lineup is too good to let the Penguins fall outside of the top eight. Crosby and Malkin have a Cup, though. Getting in will not be enough.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Judging Pittsburgh against other conference powers, it’s hard to put the Penguins in the Eastern Conference final. But that’s what it will take to consider this season even a remote success. You don’t bring in Kessel and not have higher expectations.
Player to watch: Maatta. There are several exciting, young defensemen breaking out throughout the NHL. Maatta was on that track before his health scare. Picking up where he left off will be an important shot in the arm for Pittsburgh.
Next: Number 13: Count On The Streak Continuing
Apr 29, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Detroit Red Wings left wing Drew Miller (20) boards Tampa Bay Lightning center Vladislav Namestnikov (90) during the third period of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena. Tampa Bay Lightning defeated the Detroit Red Wings 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Number 13: Detroit Red Wings
The Detroit Red Wings defy modern sports. In an era of unrestricted free agency and salary cap parity the Red Wings enter the 2015-16 NHL season looking to extend their playoff appearance streak to 25.
Detroit boasts a balance of talented veterans and young guns looking for more than just a playoff berth. Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk led the team in scoring, Datsyuk being second despite missing 19 games. They are supported by young snipers Gustav Nyquist and last seasons leading goal-scorer, Tomas Tatar.
Depth at forward won’t be a problem either. The Red Wings will start the 2015-16 NHL season with eight returning double-digit goal goal scorers. None of whom are Johan Franzen, who has been cleared to play and will be ready for training camp. You get that deep with production and continue as a top-five possession team, you’re going to the playoffs.
Lessons learned from last years elimination should carry over for a hungry Red Wings team. Despite last season getting knocked out in the first round, that was a 3-2 series in favor of Detroit before failing to close out the series. That is valuable experience for the youth on the Red Wings, particularly Petr Mrazek who earned the crease ahead of Jimmy Howard during the Lightning series and was very good.
It’s the defense that might be the only concern in the 2015-16 NHL season. Mike Green was added to Nicklas Kronwall, Danny DeKeyser, and Jonathan Ericsson for a reasonable top four (Hall of Famer in Kronwall), but Green isn’t known for his defense. Were his improvements last season in Washington a product of the system or committing himself to something more than his offense?
That’s for rookie head coach Jeff Blashill to determine. He does have Brendan Smith and Jakub Kindl as excellent possession defenseman, but the 2015-16 NHL season like all others are about attrition. Is this team good enough defensively if Kronwall were lost for any period. Better to address that proactively than wait and have the cost driven up.
Defensive depth questions won’t keep the Detroit Red Wings out of the playoffs for the 2015-16 NHL season. The streak will continue. But “Hockeytown” wants and expects more. Will the Red Wings deliver?
The Detroit Red Wings will make the playoffs if: the sun rises in the East and sets in the West. The Wings always find a way and the 2015-16 NHL season won’t be any different. Deep up front with improved goaltending once Mrazek finally keeps the crease.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: It’s Detroit so it’s usually Stanley Cup or bust. It’s not nuts to expect a series win this year. After all, they took the Eastern Conference champions to the limit.
Player to watch: Jimmy Howard. He must know how much pressure Mrazek is putting on him. Starting the season strong is a must, or Howard could find himself submitting a list for his modified no-trade clause. GM Ken Holland could find himself in tough with a backup goaltender making big money if Mrazek continues playing lights-out.
Next: Number 12: Minnesota Hockey Running Wild
May 7, 2015; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota Wild head coach Mike Yeo during a time out during the third period against the Chicago Blackhawks in game four of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Xcel Energy Center. The Blackhawks defeated the Wild 4-3 sweeping the second round of playoffs. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports
Number 12: Minnesota Wild
Last season the Minnesota Wild shot up the standings after turning their crowded crease of despair to Devan Dubnyk, who arguably had the best season by a goaltender not named Carey Price. Similar to Ottawa I expect a normalization of Dubnyk’s numbers in the 2015-16 NHL season. Not back to Arizona numbers, but not .936 save percentage either.
Dubnyk and Darcy Kuemper are an underrated tandem even if Dubnyk slides back a little bit. And the Wild will enter the 2015-16 strong on both wings with Zach Parise, Jason Pominville, Thomas Vanek and Nino Niederreiter. The Wild also boast defensive stud Ryan Suter but beyond that this is still a very young team.
Minnesota Wild
Taking Suter out of the equation, the Wild have youth and new faces on the blue line. With two first-round picks in Matt Dumba and Jonas Brodin, there isn’t a shortage in talent, just experience. That matters on defense more than any other position. Veterans Tyson Strachan was signed for added depth, but two numbers point out the issue with the Wild making a deep playoff run.
First, only one defenseman played more than 67 games which was Ryan Suter. Secondly, the Wild felt the growing pains in terms of possession numbers, finishing in the middle of the league. I see a step forward for the Wild defense in the 2015-16 NHL season, taking pressure off the goaltenders.
The Minnesota Wild will make the playoffs if: Dubnyk doesn’t turn into 2014-15 Mike Smith. It’s highly unlikely, but bad goaltending nearly cost this team last year, in part because the centers don’t produce enough points outside of Miko Koivu. You can only win so many close games before the law of averages catches you.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: get to the Western Conference Final. The Wild were proof that a hot goaltender can take you far. That trip into the second round gave experience to a team that needed it. They will be better during the 2015-16 NHL season and wind up better prepared for the playoffs because of it. This will become a trendy pick once the 2015-16 NHL season starts.
Player to watch: as I said before there are plenty of young defensemen emerging throughout the NHL. The Wild have a pair that should grow throughout the 2015-16 NHL season. Keep your eye on Brodin and Dumba. With another year of experience, I expect both to look even better than last season. As they grow, so will the Minnesota Wild.
Next: Number 11: Lighting The West On Fire
May 10, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Calgary Flames left wing Johnny Gaudreau (13) celebrates with the bench after he scores a goal against the Anaheim Ducks during the second period in game five of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Number 11: Calgary Flames
And here comes the hate mail. Calgary made it to the final eight last year despite being undersized and under appreciated. The Flames cared not for your lack of love, seemingly falling behind 2-0 in several games before roaring back to win many of them. It was almost comical to watch them flip the switch.
After a few upgrades for the 2015-16 NHL season, the Calgary Flames are even better. Jiri Hudler would have earned more MVP votes if not for a certain goaltender in Montreal playing out of his bucket. Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan, who combined, are one year younger than Jaromir Jagr, have the speed to push the best defenses in the league and proves last year they have the finish too.
The scarier part about Calgary isn’t their offense, which gets deeper with the signing of Michael Frolik. It’s how many points come from the back end. Dennis Wideman, Mark Giordano, and TJ Brodie would have averaged over 50 points each if not for Giordano getting hurt. On top of that add, Dougie Hamilton from Boston and you have a top four defense that can outgun some top six forwards.
They may need to again. Calgary had the second-best shooting percentage in the league and the third-worst Corsi for. Assuming the shooting percentage comes back a little toward the league average, Calgary must become a better possession team in the 2015-16 NHL season. Frolik has the goods to do so as does Hamilton, but is that enough to improve the overall results? It’s going to take more than two players to do better keeping the puck from the opposition.
The Calgary Flames will make the playoffs if: they do a better job getting leads instead of erasing them. That much success coming from behind needs to teach Calgary they can’t make a living doing it. They have the horses to play from the front.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: If Calgary can hold the puck a little more often and take pressure off their defense and goaltending, I believe this team is capable of taking the 2015-16 NHL season to the Western Conference Final. Getting in and winning a round is still successful, but I believe they can go further.
Player to watch: Hamilton. He was a possible heir to Zdeno Chara in Boston. He’s joining a potent offense and can make life easier for his defense partner and goaltender. How long will it take him to adjust to the Western Conference style of game?
Next: Number 10: The Stars Will Shine In Dallas
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
Number 10: Dallas Stars
The Dallas Stars were a disappointment last season. It wasn’t for a lack of offense with the Art Ross winner in Jamie Benn. Tyler Seguin and Jason Spezza joined him lighting the league on fire. Beyond that there were depth issues with the gap between the third and fourth scoring player being 22 points (62 to 40).
The major problem facing Dallas before the 2015-16 NHL season was goaltending. High-priced starter Kari Lehtonen won a bunch of games but his .903 save percentage was a disaster. As a team Dallas was tied for fourth in total goals against with Toronto and better than only Buffalo, Arizona and Edmonton. Lottery much?
In fact of all goaltenders with at least 35 starts, the only one Lehtonen beat on save percentage was Ben Scrivens. You are absolutely nowhere with your goaltending if that’s your starter. On top of that, Lehtonen has a cap hit of nearly $6 million for the next three years. If you’re GM is trading for Lehtonen, your owner is looking for a new GM.
Instead, GM Jim Nill signed Stanley Cup winner Antti Niemi. His .914 save percentage with the Sharks isn’t sparkling but it’s a serious boost to the Stars. Lehtonen need the opportunity to keep his job and should start the 2015-16 NHL season at the number one goaltender. But that hook is Mike Keenan short.
Both the Dallas offense and defense also got an upgrade going into the 2015-16 NHL season. In addition to Niemi, two more former Blackhawks joined the team in Patrick Sharp and Johnny Oduya. Sharp cost Dallas a good defenseman in Trevor Daley and Oduya isn’t from the same mold.
John Klingberg and Alex Goligoski can still put up points from the blue line. But what Dallas needs is solid defensemen who win wall battles and get the puck out to the skill up front. Oduya is that as are Jordie Benn and and an emerging Jyrki Jokipakka. If Patrick Nemeth bounces back from his arm injury this defense seems better on paper.
It still must translate to the ice. Better goaltending goes a long way toward an improved defense. Dallas can’t expect to outgun the best in the West. Being average in goals allowed gives the offense opportunities to win more games and get into the playoffs. I think Dallas is capable of far more, particularly when Lehtonen loses the crease and Niemi takes over.
The Dallas Stars will make the playoffs if: their goaltending stops playing at a bar-league level. Lehtonen is capable of bouncing back but I believe he will lose the crease to Niemi around the 30-40 game mark. It will save the Stars season. And once they get in, they can get deep.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: there is a lot of money in players which brings expectations. If they aren’t met for a second straight season there could be massive changes. I believe Dallas responds, makes the playoffs and is capable of winning at least one round. The matchup matters to Dallas greatly depending on where their defense is.
Player to watch: Jokipaaka. Entering his second season he was rewarded with a bridge deal and expectation of a greater impact. If Dallas is right about this seventh-round pick their top four gets stronger. That’s critical come playoff time. Can the 22-year old deliver?
Next: Number 9: Can The Blues Change Their Playoff Tune?
Apr 26, 2015; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Saint Louis Blues head coach Ken Hitchcock talks to players during a time out in the third period in game six of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Xcel Energy Center. The Wild defeated the Blues 4-1 advancing them to the second round of playoffs. Mandatory Credit: Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports
Number 9: St. Louis Blues
I got suckered in again. For what seems like half my adult life the Blues have had good seasons and a few great ones. Then the playoffs come along and they forget how to hockey.
What makes the 2015-16 NHL season any different? I’m getting pulled back in by the allure of a game-breaking goal scorer. Vladimir Tarasenko might be the most electric player in the league. After putting up nearly a point-per-game he was rewarded with a contract that might be the best value in hockey for any team.
Tarasenko is worth more than the $7.5 million than he got. Whether that’s the player taking a discount to benefit the team or an agent that needs to be replaced, the Blues made out. The team around Tarasenko will look a little different to start the 2015-16 NHL season and could be a lot different by the end of it.
The Blues offense was balanced well with nine players over forty points. T.J. Oshie was traded away to Washington for Troy Brower, helping the Blues get another big body and an expiring contract. Brower is a solid depth forward with a history of good point production and possession numbers. He will fit right in to a team that finished in the top five in goals for and against.
So why did the Blues fade again last year? All the numbers and talent point to an impressive 2015-16 NHL season. The goaltending under the Stanley Cup playoff pressure kinda of threw up on their crest. Both Brian Elliott and Jake Allen were ok in the regular season but not good enough to keep the Blues from taking a look at Martin Brodeur. The future Hall-of-Famer in a Blues uniform is an image I’ll never get out of my head.
Ultimately the Blues went with Allen in the playoffs and he gained some valuable experience. But that was about it. Allen is still the goalie of the future in St. Louis and should be given every opportunity to make the most of it in the 2015-16 NHL season. I’m not saying Allen will turn into Henrik Lundqvist. I do believe he takes a big step forward.
That defense in front of him will help. Kevin Shattenkirk and Alex Pietrangelo will lead the way while Chris Butler and Jay Bouwmeester look to keep the Blues responsible in their own end. Clearly there are questions about who will fill out the back-end if the Blues are listing 17 defensemen on their roster. That’s a position battle to keep an eye on.
Bottom line on the Blues is they are ranked high again because of the talent outside of the crease. St. Louis remains deep and Tarasenko should draw so much extra attention that his line mates will get more opportunities. If Allen is what he could be, the Blues are a top ten team. But this rank made me nervous. As Allen goes, so will go that St. Louis Blues 2015-16 NHL season.
The St. Louis Blues will make the playoffs if: the goaltending is average. There is more than enough talent on the roster to make the playoffs. Getting in is no longer enough for the Blues. Another first-round exit could mean more player exits.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Allen shakes off the playoff jitterbug and the Blues win a round. That must be the minimum expectation. Considering how long the Stanley Cup hopes have lingered, anything less than a Western Conference final could mean major changes. How patient can a team be?
Player to watch: Jake Allen. He doesn’t have to be Patrick Roy. He just can’t be Kari Lehtonen at the worst possible times again. I think he bounces back but the Blues season will depend on how far.
Next: Number 8: New Barn, New Expectations
Apr 27, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; New York Islanders center Frans Nielsen (51), Islanders center John Tavares (91) and Islanders right wing Kyle Okposo (21) react after their game against the Washington Capitals in game seven of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 2-1, and won the series 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Number 8: New York Islanders
Last season the New York Islanders went from a outside the playoffs to a tough team to face in once the second season starts. Getting Johnny Boychuk, Nick Leddy and Jaroslav Halak greatly improved the team defense. After a tough first-round playoff loss to the Capitals, what lessons can the Islanders carry into the 2015-16 NHL season?
The Islanders are led by one of the games most exciting players, John Tavares. In fact the Islanders boast great depth and talent down the middle with Tavares, Frans Neilson, Ryan Strome, Brock Nelson, Anders Lee and Mikhail Grabovski. All six are listed as centers on the roster now but Strome looks headed to the wing.
GM Garth Snow has a good team that needs changes during the 2015-16 NHL season. One made before camp opened when Michael Grabner was traded to Toronto for five players, most of which are prospects. The one exception is Taylor Beck, a depth winger with 23 points in 85 career games. The trade frees up a few million dollars, cap space which could be used for Kyle Okposo.
The Islanders have a very young roster with only three players currently listed over 30. While being young up front often means energy, young defensemen can mean mistakes. It’s a much tougher position to learn. Leddy and Boychuk as veterans have sped up the learning curve for Calvan de Haan and Travis Hamonic.
I have the Islanders at eight overall to start because this will be a very good regular season team. They should finish the 2015-16 NHL season comfortably in the playoffs. The Okposo pending free agency is interesting to watch and will impact how the Islanders look late in the 2015-16 NHL season. For now, the Islanders start in the top ten with an eye to the future.
The New York Islanders will make the playoffs if: Jaroslav Halak stays upright. Thomas Greiss can fill in on rest days. If Halak is lost for any period of time, the Islanders are in big trouble. The rest of the roster can play with anyone on a given night, or in a given series.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Make the playoffs, win at least a round, and figure out the contract for Okposo sooner rather than later. Snow shouldn’t want that distraction hanging around the team. The closer Okposo gets to the trade deadline, that’s all you’ll hear out of New York unless Tavares is on pace for 70 goals.
Player to watch: Josh Bailey. The former first round pick hit career highs in goals and points last season. Doing so again entering his prime bodes well for the Islanders. An added item to watch with the is John Tavares. It’s interesting to me he doesn’t have a no-movement or no-trade clause of any kind until next year. Manageable cap hit, Snow is not afraid to make moves…
I’m not suggesting he will or should be traded. There is nothing out there to say that’s a possibility. Stranger things are possible (looking at you, Tampa!) and players like Tavares don’t get traded much. Just something I didn’t expect that might be worth watching in the 2015-16 NHL season.
Next: Number 7: High Expectations In Music City
Apr 25, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Nashville Predators center Matt Cullen (7) celebrates with teammates after scoring against the Chicago Blackhawks in the first period in game six of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Number 7: Nashville Predators
For years, the Nashville Predators calling card has been great defense, very good goaltending and a team that struggled to score more than Jason Biggs in “American Pie”. While part of that is right heading into the 2015-16 NHL season, it won’t all hold true.
The defense will have three of the best in the league. Shea Weber is coming off an knee injury but should be ready to go for training camp. Seth Jones looks every bit the future top-pair defenseman and Roman Josi doesn’t get enough Norris Trophy consideration for how good he is. Add in Ryan Ellis, another first-round draft pick, and the Predators enter than 2015-16 NHL season with an embarrassment of defensive riches.
Pekka Rinne will be the benefactor of those studs in front of him. Usually in the top-five when Vezina votes are handed out, Rinne is clear of his bothersome hip issues and carrying the load again. It’s amazing with the defense and goaltending on Nashville that anyone scores on them. As Jones and Josi enter their prime the Predators should only be tougher to score on.
It’s the game-breaking goal scorer that’s been missing. Welcome to the NHL, Filip Forsberg. Leading the team in goals, points and jaw-dropping offensive highlights, Forsberg is the kind of player your coach game plans specifically for.
That can still be done because not quite enough is coming out of the support forwards. Mike Ribiero was the only other forward over 60 points. Lack of balance shows up on the power play where the Predators were sixth worst in the league.
I’d like Nashville to find one more scorer for the second or third lines heading into the 2015-16 NHL season. I would like their chances at a deep playoff run more. But this is a ranking to start the regular season. Nashville has enough defense to keep games low-scoring, which plays to most of this team well. Plenty of wins and a high playoff seed are on the horizon for the 2015-16 NHL season.
The Nashville Predators will make the playoffs if: the league doesn’t fold. Pen them in.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Make the Western Conference Final. Enough getting in just to fade out. Let the Blues keep doing that. As I said, I’d like to see more scoring added, or roster players step up to do it. Which brings me to…
Player to watch: Colin Wilson. If Forsberg and James Neal have to score all the goals this team is DEAD in the playoffs. Wilson posted career numbers last season and needs to be another threat other teams plan for. I’m also interested if Cody Hodgson can revive his career after leaving Buffalo. If Hodgson gives the Predators another scorer (40-45 points?), Nashville shoots up the rankings.
Next: Number 6: Capital Improvements In Washington
May 13, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the New York Rangers during the first period of game seven of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Number 6: Washington Capitals
The Capitals took a nice step last season, winning a tough first round series again the New York Islanders. Losing an equally difficult second round series to the Rangers prompted a few changes. Now Washington is looking to go even further.
You know about the dynamic duo, Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom. Both consistently finishing best on the team in scoring and near the top of the league. To support them Washington traded Troy Brower to St. Louis for T.J. Oshie, a near equal trade in production but Oshie is a more complete player.
The other and perhaps more important signing is Justin Williams. With three Stanley Cups and several clutch Game Seven performances, Williams is the supportive and steady hand Washington needs in the locker room.
The defense will look different after the team didn’t resign Mike Green. While gifted offensively it wasn’t until the second half of last year Green looked like he was interested in the defensive end of the rink. A top four of Matt Niskanen, John Carlson, Karl Alzner and Brooks Orpik still has jump offensively but should cover their own end more consistently.
The biggest question this offseason was answered with a Brinks truck. Braden Holtby got the long-term contract he earned and will command the blue for Washington for years to come. With improvements to the depth in front of him, the 2015-16 NHL season for Washington could end with a Stanley Cup. The Capitals will be offensive, dynamic and very successful. The playoffs are a lock and a division title isn’t out of reach.
The Washington Capitals will make the playoffs if: we’ve hit the point where this isn’t even a question. Consider them made.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Win the Eastern Conference at minimum. I know there are a few tough outs ahead of them. But Washington proved last year they could compete with anyone and could have got passed the Rangers last year. Next to Buffalo, they are the most improved team in the East.
Player to watch: I’ll give you two: Evgeny Kuznetsov and Andre Burakovsky. Two young first-round picks coming off solid seasons skating into the 2015-16 NHL season with higher expectations. If both players continue progressing, Washington becomes your Eastern Conference favorite.
Next: Number 5: Canada's Best Hope For Stanley Cup
Jul 29, 2015; Foxboro, MA, USA; NHL commission Gary Bettman and representatives of the Montreal Canadiens pose for a photo during a press conference for the Winter Classic hockey game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Number 5: Montreal Canadiens
Here is what we know about the Montreal Canadiens going into the 2015-16 NHL season. They have an elite goaltender in Carey Price. They have a very underrated talent up front leading them in Max Pacioretty. And P.K. Subban is as dynamic with his play as he is with his attitude. All three players give the Canadiens hope year in and year out for the Stanley Cup.
How’d that work out last year? Once the playoffs came the mantra became “Go get em, Carey!” because this team couldn’t score when games got tighter. They were a popular pick to be upset by Ottawa before being eliminated by the eventual conference champions.
This offseason was about adding depth so that doesn’t happen during the 2015-16 NHL season. The most newsworthy of those was Alexander Semin. Back in July I told you if Montreal wanted to contend this was the signing they needed. But GM Marc Bergevin didn’t stop there.
Devante Smith-Pelly gets a full season in Montreal to fulfill his promise. Immediately the biggest forward in Montreal, the Canadiens hope Smith-Pelly becomes a power forward with scoring touch. Zach Kassian, Torrey Mitchell and Brian Flynn were also brought in to play on the bottom two lines, adding physicality and possession ability. Flynn has the highest upside of the three with his work ethic and should be a nice player for Montreal.
Andrei Makarov and Tom Gilbert are the veterans on the blue line along with Subban. Jeff Petry rounds out the top four and was off to a nice start after being traded to Montreal last season. Expect offensive contributions from Petry to help get the forwards going.
Bottom line for Montreal is just because Carey Price can carry you for a while doesn’t mean he should. Bergevin made some nice moves to help the depth while Semin needs to give that top-six punch. Montreal could easily win the Eastern Conference. But the East is getting deeper and they could easily get challenged in the first round again too.
The Montreal Canadiens will make the playoffs if: Yawn. They’re in. If Montreal manages to miss the playoffs it’s a sign of the end times.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: It’s cliche to say in Montreal that every season is Stanley Cup or bust. But in passionate hockey markets that’s how it goes. If the bottom six forwards provide timely scoring without relying on Price, Montreal can win the Stanley Cup.
Player to watch: Alex Galchenyuk. Is he a center? Is he a forward? Make up your mind already with this kid. There is a reason he went third overall. Put him down the middle and let him fly.
Next: Number 4: Windy City Dynasty
Jun 18, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks goalie Scott Darling (33) holds the Stanley Cup during the 2015 Stanley Cup championship rally at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Number 4: Chicago Blackhawks
Can we just agree to name the GM of the Year award after Stan Bowman? Maybe it’s dumb luck or maybe it’s genetics. But the 2015-16 NHL season will be the third time Bowman is sending away important players from a Stanley Cup winner. The fact he did it once is impressive. Three Cups in six years in the salary cap era is amazing. It’s a dynasty.
Four in seven isn’t out of the question. Jonathan Toews could stop playing right now and still go to the Hall of Fame. Duncan Keith has to be a cyborg. Playing that well over that many minutes is astounding. And Corey Crawford doesn’t get enough recognition among the games best goaltenders.
Outside of the core Bowman was able to get players back from the Brandon Saad trade to make both immediate and future impacts. The most immediate return is Artem Anisimov. During his Rangers career, Anisimov was consistently a double-digit goal scorer, a touch he couldn’t find last year in Columbus as injuries took nearly half his season.
The long-term return was Marko Danno. The first 35 games of his NHL career saw Danno put up 21 points, including eight goals. Chicago is rightfully excited about Danno’s potential. Put his locker next to Jonathan Toews and let him soak up what it means to be a pros pro.
The defense got a shot in the arm also. While Johnny Oduya went to Dallas, Trevor Daley came to Chicago in the Patrick Sharp trade. Daley will play on the second pair behind Keith and Brent Seabrook and get quality time on the power play. As scary as it might be his offense could make the Blackhawks forwards more dangerous in the 2015-16 NHL season.
Unfortunately there is one cloud hanging over the Blackhawks. Patrick Kane isn’t finished with his legal issues. Until they do, I don’t think he should be anywhere near the Blackhawks or any other team. It’s possible Bowman will take offers for Kane once his latest legal issue is behind him.
Until that point the human element of his situation needs to be respected. Let the process play out then worry about how the Blackhawks are affected. For this purpose Kane is listed on the training camp roster and until that changes I have the Blackhawks in my top five for the 2015-16 NHL season. Because as much as we question what Stan Bowman does after the fact he’s a better GM than anyone in the game.
The Chicago Blackhawks will make the playoffs if: remember last season when Kane got hurt some thought the Blackhawks might miss the playoffs? Chicago is too deep for that and there aren’t enough good teams in the West to keep them out.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: when a team wins the Stanley Cup there is only one answer to this for the following season: defend it. Anything else will feel disappointing but wouldn’t be. Missing the Western Conference Final would.
Player to watch: Teuvo Teravainen. The Blackhawks have brought Teravainen along slowly but it’s time to take the kid gloves off. It is indeed “Tuevo Time”.
Next: Number 3: One More Stanley Cup Run On Broadway
May 29, 2015; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist (30) heads to the bench as the Rangers play with an empty net against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the third period in game seven of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Number 3: New York Rangers
The New York Rangers are right back in the hunt to win the Eastern Conference. I’m giving plenty of credit to Henrik Lundqvist, Rick Nash and overall team depth. But an offense that was one of three league-wide to average more than three goals per game lost offense that needs made up.
Martin St. Louis retired and Carl Hagelin was traded to Anaheim for Emerson Etem. Both Hagelin and Etem are burners who struggled with consistency in their games. Etem hasn’t found his scoring touch in the NHL yet and the Rangers need him to find it. With talented right-wingers Jesper Fast, Kevin Hayes and Mats Zuccarello, Etem doesn’t need to replace St. Louis’ production himself.
New York Rangers
The left side is also loaded led by Nash. Chris Kreider has speed to burn (when not slamming into goaltenders). The bottom two lines sport Viktor Stalberg and Tanner Glass. Good scoring touch and physicality on the bottom two lines for the Rangers, elements needed in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The defense has potential to have a stronger 2015-16 NHL season than last year with the services of Keith Yandle all year. When adding Yandle to Marc Staal, Dan Girardi and Ryan McDonough you’ve got a deep, defensive-minded core with more offensive pop. And if Dan Boyle and Kevin Klein are your third pair, you’re as sound defensively as anyone.
I loved the low-risk, high reward signing of Jarrett Stoll. Stoll is a defensively responsible center with Stanley Cup rings. He can take big face-offs and doesn’t kill you offensively. After his poor offseason choices he will come to camp motivated to prove the Rangers were right to invest in him. New York can also shift around their embarrassment of riches down the middle for different combinations and offensive looks.
The Rangers were hammered by injuries in last years series against Tampa Bay. They might have won the series being a little healthier. Lundqvist won’t have to carry the pressure he has earlier in his career. An Eastern Conference Final rematch isn’t out of the question.
The New York Rangers will make the playoffs if: Not if, when. The Rangers are a lock.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Win the Stanley Cup. Enough with getting deep in the playoffs to say “It’s not Hank’s fault”. Bring the Cup back to Broadway.
Player to watch: Zuccarello. Bouncing back from a skull fracture, Zuccarello can produce points and create space for Rick Nash to operate. If he’s right, the Rangers are a much better team.
Next: Number 2: The Defending Eastern Conference Champions
May 29, 2015; New York, NY, USA; NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly presents Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos (91) with the Prince of Wales Trophy after game seven of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Number 2: Tampa Bay Lightning
I fully expect hate mail for putting Tampa Bay ahead of Chicago. I could split hairs on the top three and rank them in any order and be happy with Chicago a close fourth. Fact remains Chicago and New York have both changed the roster and Tampa Bay hasn’t.
My reasoning for Tampa Bay here is I see the depth at forward stronger than Chicago and the Rangers, for now. I’m also giving credit to the Lightning for learning what the Blackhawks did to them in the playoffs and being more prepared to play the Western Conference game. Yes, it’s an intangible. You have your ranking, I have mine.
The Lightning could have three players hit 30 goals in the 2015-16 NHL season. Steven Stamkos is the given but both Tyler Johnson and Nikita Kucherov only missed by one goal. Half the roster scored at least 30 points. The Lightning were the highest scoring team in the NHL and should be in that mix again.
If not for Duncan Keith in last years Stanley Cup Final, Victor Hedman would have won the Conn Smythe. His name should be one of the first you think of for the Norris Trophy when the 2015-16 NHL season ends. Anton Stralman, Jason Garrison and Matthew Carle make up the defensive core with Hedman. Keep an eye on Nikita Nesterov entering his second year to add to a solid Lightning back-end.
Tampa Bay remains this high because Ben Bishop was very good in the regular season and better in the playoffs. I was incredibly impressed with Bishop playing most of the Final on a torn groin against an explosive Blackhawks offense. Bishop’s health will be more important to start the 2015-16 NHL season because of illness to Andrei Vasilevskiy.
Vasilevskiy will miss up to three months after surgery to remove a blood clot from his collarbone. Being out until November puts big pressure on Bishop. If head coach Jon Cooper rides Bishop and the groin acts up again the Lightning’s 2015-16 NHL season could get away from them.
The Tampa Bay Lightning will make the playoffs if: I’ve already said it. They need Bishop healthy into December. He’s healthy and ready for training camp which is a great start. If he stays upright this is a Stanley Cup contender.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: The Lightning were two games from planning a parade. Anything less than winning sixteen playoff games won’t be good enough. Tampa’s time is now.
Player to watch: Stamkos. That contract situation will become a distraction the longer it carries into the season. If he doesn’t sign an extension does it force Steve Yzerman’s hand to trade him?
Next: Number 1: Fear The Flying V
May 30, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks goalie Frederik Andersen (31) stands behind teammates on the bench as the Ducks play in an empty net situation against the Chicago Blackhawks in the third period in game seven of the Western Conference Final of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Number 1: Anaheim Ducks
Sitting at the top of my 2015-16 NHL season rankings are the Anaheim Ducks. Last season a tough Game Seven loss kept them from reaching the Stanley Cup Final. The Ducks young players gained valuable experience from that process. I see them ready to be the best team in the NHL.
Anaheim will look different when compared to last season. Carl Hagelin gives the Ducks extra speed on the outsides to push tempo more than in the past. Chris Stewart fits more the big, physical player with scoring touch mold the Ducks are used to. And Kevin Bieksa gives Anaheim another solid, veteran defensemen with playoff experience.
Anaheim Ducks
All three only add to Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Ryan Kesler leading the offensive charge. Consistently good and tough to play against, the Ducks will roll out deeper forward lines capable of greater production with Stewart and Hagelin.
Bieksa is the veteran on a defense filled with studs. The Ducks boast Sami Vatanen, Cam Fowler, Hampus Lindholm, Clayton Stoner and Simon Despres in his first full season with Anaheim. Vatanen is the most offensively gifted while Stoner and Lindholm also provide support. Bieksa is the only defenseman I’ve named that are over 27 years old. This unit will grow together and be among the best for years to come.
My only real question about Anaheim is their ability to keep the puck. The Ducks finished an alarming 22nd in Corsi For last year. Not keeping the puck in the playoffs is a certain way to get you beat. Anaheim almost overcame that anyway. They should be better depending on how you feel about Bieksa and Stewart.
Bieksa traditionally has good possession numbers but declined as the Canucks fell off. Stewart was a possession disaster in Buffalo (who wasn’t?) but posted career best numbers after his trade to Minnesota. Both players will benefit from a stronger team around them.
The beneficiaries of that will be Frederik Andersen and John Gibson. Andersen is the starter heading into the 2015-16 NHL season. Both goaltenders put up the same save percentage while Andersen posted a better goals against. Andersen is 25 and heading into his prime coming off a year gathering great experience. I expect him to be better in the 2015-16 NHL season. That’s a big reason the Ducks sit on top.
Anaheim has been tortured by Los Angeles winning two Stanley Cups and Chicago getting three. The Ducks have been a bridesmaid in the West for years now. It’s time to step up and take the vows themselves.
The Anaheim Ducks will make the playoffs if: As long as California doesn’t break away from the lower 48 and players need new ID to get back in the country, they’re a lock.
A successful 2015-16 NHL season looks like: Beat the Kings. Beat the Blackhawks. Beat them all and bring the Stanley Cup back home. Nothing else will do.
Player to watch: Jakob Silfverberg. The big Swede posted career highs in goals and points. He also busted out with more than a point-per-game pace in the playoffs. I see Silfverberg as a real weapon in the 2015-16 NHL season, passing 20 goals and 60 points as the upgraded talent around him gives him more opportunities.
Agree with the rankings? Disagree? Can we drop the puck on the 2015-16 NHL season and watch it play out already?
Next: Bold Predictions for 2015-2016
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