12. Dallas Stars (12)
Every time fans look at the Central Division standings, things look different. A solid week by the Dallas Stars has them back in second place in the division, two points behind the Colorado Avalanche and two points ahead of the Minnesota Wild. Where they finish will be crucial.
11. Los Angeles Kings (9)
The Los Angeles Kings were as hot as any team in the NHL in March, but April has not been quite as kind. LA posted a 1-3 record last week, with all three defeats coming at the hands of playoff teams. The Kings need to get a couple of wins and some momentum in the final week.
10. Seattle Kraken (13)
Unlike the Kings, the Seattle Kraken had a great week last week. A 4-0 record gives Seattle a chance to catch LA and move into the top three in the Pacific Division. At the very least, it should give the first-time playoff participant some confidence heading into its first best-of-seven series.
9. Minnesota Wild (7)
Minnesota had been one of the hottest teams in the NHL, but it is now 1-2-1 in the last week and a half. That’s not a terrible stretch, but the Wild will surely need to get some of their momentum back this week if they hope to win in the postseason.