21. Ottawa Senators - 2023-24 Result: Missed Playoffs
It is very hard to believe in the Ottawa Senators right now. They made some nice additions but none are nicer than Linus Ullmark who is one of the 10 best goalies in the world.
He should elevate them past being a bottom-ten team as they have been but how far can he take them? We'll see. It better be soon before some of their young stars get antsy.
22. Pittsburgh Penguins - 2023-24 Result: Missed Playoffs
Sidney Crosby just had a wonderful season in 2023-24 despite being 36 years old. He changed up his game a little bit but there is no doubt he is still one of the best players in the NHL.
With Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, and Erik Karlsson around, it will be a fun team to watch. However, they don't have the depth needed to become a power in the Metropolitan Division anymore.
Never underestimate the importance of a third line like Carl Hagelin-Nick Bonino-Phil Kessel. It's never bad to have an Olympian on every line. Those were the days for Pittsburgh.