NHL Predictions for 2016-17 Regular Season

NHL Predictions for 2016-17 Regular Season – Pacific Division

Apr 22, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Kings defenseman Brayden McNabb (3) and San Jose Sharks center Chris Tierney (50) battle for the puck in game five of the first round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Staples Center. The Sharks defeated the Kings 6-3 to win the series 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 2, 2016; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames goalie Chad Johnson (31) watches the puck go past against the Winnipeg Jets during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports /

Calgary Flames, 5th – 76 points

Last season, the Flames had no problem putting the puck in the net – they were 10th in scoring. However, the loss of Joe Colborne and Jiri Hudler will hurt them. Even though they signed Troy Brouwer to pick up some of the slack. Having yet to re-sign superstar Johnny Gaudreau with the season so close, the fans might start getting worried.

Apr 7, 2016; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames left wing Johnny Gaudreau (13) skates with the puck against the Vancouver Canucks during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 7-3. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports /

Calgary was dead last in goals conceded and penalty kill percentage – an issue that wasn’t fixed in the offseason. Kris Russell isn’t a particularly good defenseman, but they’ve yet to replace him…. With anyone.

Trading for Brian Elliott was inspired, and Chad Johnson is a more than capable backup. Elliott’s past three seasons read; goals allowed per game – 1.96, 2.26 and 2.07, save percentage – .922, .917 and .930.

Sam Bennett, TJ Brodie, Dougie Hamilton and Gaudreau will have big seasons. Elliot could single-handedly win them numerous games. But their defense is too leaky and the forward group won’t be able to cover for them.

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