NHL '08-'09 Season Preview: Power Rankings

Mark Jones' 2008-2009 NHL Season Preview

Power Rankings (by conference):

Eastern Conference

1. Montreal Canadiens*

2. Washington Capitals*

3. Pittsburgh Penguins*

4. Philadelphia Flyers

5. New York Rangers

6. New Jersey Devils

7. Carolina Hurricanes

8. Florida Panthers

Some question the capability of the Hurricanes and Panthers, two young, Southeast Division teams. Yet, both have the capabilities.  The Panthers, especially, have improved over the offseason. Though, the Washington Capitals are easily the best team in the Southeast Division.

Western Conference

1. Detroit Red Wings*

2. San Jose Sharks*

3. Anaheim Ducks

4. Calgary Flames*

5. Dallas Stars

6. Chicago Blackhawks

7. Minnesota Wild

8. Colorado Avalanche

The eighth spot will be hotly contested by the Canucks, Avalanche, Oilers, Coyotes, and Predators. With the Pacific Division looking so good, the Coyotes will have a hard time getting the final spot with such a difficult schedule.

The Oilers and Canucks just can't seem to finish.  And, the Predators can't seem to get enough home advantage from some lousy Nashville fans. The Red Wings, once again, look like the Western Conference team to beat. Additionally, the San Jose Sharks are becoming an extremely talented team.

NHL Playoffs—Eastern Conference

Round 1

Montreal 4 [games], Florida 1

Washington 4, Carolina 3

Pittsburgh 4, New Jersey 2

Philadelphia 4, New York 3

Round 2

Montreal 4, Philadelphia 3

Washington 2, Pittsburgh 4

Eastern Conference Championship

Montreal 2, Pittsburgh 4

NHL Playoffs—Western Conference

Round 1

Detroit 4, Avalanche 1

San Jose 4, Minnesota 2

Anaheim 3, Chicago 4

Calgary 2, Dallas 4

Round 2

Detroit 4, Chicago 0

San Jose 4, Dallas 3

Western Conference Championship

Detroit 4, San Jose 1

2008-2009 NHL Stanley Cup

Detroit 4, Pittsburgh 2

Thank you for reading this NHL Season Preview edition. All comments will be greatly appreciated.