16. New York Islanders (16)
As was the case with the Flames, the New York Islanders were 1-1-1 last week. For now, the Isles are clinging to the second wild card spot in the East, but as I have mentioned a few times already, there are several teams right behind them.
New York will hope that in the long run, the Bo Horvat addition will prove to be the difference between them and their rivals. Perhaps another move will be necessary for the Islanders to reach the postseason.
15. Pittsburgh Penguins (15)
The Pittsburgh Penguins lost to the Islanders last week in one of two Metropolitan Division matchups in which Sidney Crosby and company were unable to pick up points in the standings.
The Pens have long been one of the best teams in the NHL, but they have some depth issues to address in the coming weeks if they are to remain a threat in the spring.
14. Minnesota Wild (17)
As this list continues through a stretch of teams that are seemingly in no man’s land, the Minnesota Wild clock in at 14. This is another team that was average last week and finds itself in a wild card position.
Minnesota appears to be in a decent position in the long term, but their potential in 2023 still seems to be a bit of a mystery.
13. Edmonton Oilers (12)
Edmonton couldn’t hold a lead to save its life this past week, despite Connor McDavid becoming the NHL’s first 100-point scorer (yes, already). The Oilers are the same team they’ve been for years, as they lean on McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and a handful of others and always come up short.
This club has more talent at the top of the roster than any other team in the NHL, yet it’s barely a playoff team. Keep an eye on Edmonton at the deadline.