Screen Shots: 2008-09 Eastern Conference predictions
Mike Richards will try and captain the Flyers to an Eastern Conference championship this season. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Adam Proteau
2008-09-25 16:21:51
"I confess that in 1901, I said to my brother Orville that man would not fly for 50 years…Ever since, I have distrusted myself and avoided all predictions." – Wilbur Wright, co-inventor of air travel
Like Wilbur, I also have a fair amount of self-distrust going on – usually, when certain alcoholic drinks are blended into my bloodstream with other certain alcoholic drinks.
Much as I’d prefer to, though, I can’t avoid predictions. Goes with the gig. And anyway, it’s become something of a guilty pleasure to watch readers completely wig out and wish multiple plagues upon me after reading something into a passage I likely never intended when I wrote it in the first place.
Before I reveal my pre-season selections for the Eastern Conference (Western Conference picks can be found HERE) – which include an optimistic and cynical assessment of each team’s fortunes –a quick note: these are my selections, arrived at by me and me alone. They therefore do not necessarily represent the picks/views of The Hockey News magazine, other THN staffers, Transcontinental Media Inc. (THN’s parent company), city of Toronto, province of Ontario, country of Canada, other signatories of the North American Free Trade agreement, or Gary Bettman. But if those people/entities are smart, they do.
Eastern Conference
1. Philadelphia Flyers
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: Hey, I’m as shocked as anyone that I’m picking the Flyers to win the conference – especially now that J-S Aubin will serve as Martin Biron’s backup in net until Antero Niittymaki is healthy. But look through that lineup and tell me there’s a weakness discernable to the naked eye. I can’t see it, which is why Philly should be able to sneak past a Penguins squad with more superstars, but also less depth.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: I repeat: J-S Aubin will serve as Martin Biron’s backup in net until Antero Niittymaki is healthy. Do you know the last two teams Aubin played for? That’s right, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Los Angeles Kings. The prosecution rests.
2. Montreal Canadiens
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: While I work diligently with my team of attorneys to get my 2007-08 pre-season prediction for the Habs permanently sealed in the name of national security, allow me to sing the praises of this year’s edition: They’re fast, super-skilled, smart in their own zone and plutonium-level deadly with the man advantage. Still not completely convinced they’re built for the playoffs, but this is no one-year wonder we’re dealing with here.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: For a team that needed a serious grit infusion last year, Georges Laraque may not be the entire answer. Also, will the white-hot hoopla of the Canadiens’ 100-year anniversary serve as motivation, or distraction?
3. Washington Capitals
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: My man-crush on Alex Ovechkin isn’t a secret. However, there’s no shortage of Caps-related things to get all gushy about after the reigning league MVP: from “Slick” Nick Backstrom to Mike “Always Bet On” Green to Alexander “No, It Rhymes With ‘Em’” Semin, Washington GM George McPhee has done his owner proud and built a surefire contender until at least the next U.S. presidential race.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: Jose Theodore might deserve two minutes for lookin’ so good, but he also could be assessed a Chris-Simonesque-suspension for his consistent inconsistencies over the previous five seasons of his career. If he can’t get it done for Bruce Boudreau, the next best option – Brent Johnson and his career .902 save percentage – doesn’t inspire an appropriate amount of confidence.
4. Pittsburgh Penguins
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: Having Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Marc-Andre Fleury on your team means never having to say you’re (a) sorry (excuse for an NHL team). Sure, Marian Hossa, Gary Roberts, Ryan Malone, Jarkko Ruutu and others are gone, but I can guarantee you just about every GM in the game would still swap rosters with Pittsburgh.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: As recently as early September, I was prepared to anoint the Pens as my No. 1 pick in the East. This, in spite of numerous personnel changes, as well as a serious injury suffered by top defenseman Ryan Whitney. But I gave up after Sergei Gonchar’s shoulder was dislocated from the rest of him in a pre-season game. They’ll still go far, but it’ll take a lot more out of them to get there than it would have were all their hands on deck.
5. New Jersey Devils
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: I’m not going to pretend to know how the Devils stay in contention year after year when other franchises can’t get it right once in a decade. Maybe there’s a voodoo element to it. Maybe there’s a hidden section of the farmer’s almanac only New Jersey GM Lou Lamoriello knows to look out for. Whatever the explanation, I’ve had it with picking them to finish outside of the playoffs, only to watch them make it. So I’m picking them to make it. My apologies in advance to people who see the previous two sentences as a clear indication the Devils’ 11-year streak of post-season appearances will end this April.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: If this organization rode Martin Brodeur any harder, they’d need to first clear it with PETA. And few teams are as willing to drop the guillotine on their coach as the Devils; ask not for whom the bell tolls, Brent Sutter…
6. Boston Bruins
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: For Bruins fans accustomed to watching their team stumble and bumble enough over the past decade to qualify as a vintage Peter Sellers comedy, the team’s lunch-bucket, blood-‘n’-guts effort in ’07-08 was a welcome change. Coach Claude Julien and his burgeoning charges will prove it was no fluke.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: I’ve riffed enough on Michael Ryder’s logic-defying contract this off-season, so instead I’ll point out the fact only three Bruins amassed 40 points or more last year. Defense can win you a lot of playoff games, but as the Canadiens demonstrated against Boston in the first round, offense can get you some crucial ‘W’s, too.
7. Tampa Bay Lightning
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: The Bolts’ new owners gave the on-ice roster a makeover this summer that would put Tyra Banks and her merry band of vapid next top models to shame. And really, after the singular disaster that befell Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St-Louis last season, who can blame them? They still need Mike Smith to come through for them in goal if any of the other moves are to pay off, but Andy Moog, Smith’s former goalie coach in Dallas, thinks he’s ready for prime time. So do I.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: When your defense was the worst in the league as Tampa’s was last year, there’s really nowhere to go but up. Or is there? The Lightning’s still-developing defense corps may put that theory to its biggest test.
8. Buffalo Sabres
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: The Sabres finished four points out of the 2008 playoffs, thanks in part to a lukewarm showing by goalie Ryan Miller, as well as off-years from Maxim Afinogenov and Tim Connolly, both of whom are playing in the final year of their contracts. All it should take is a better performance from one or more of those three, plus tighter play from their blueliners, and Buffalo should be back on the playoff scene.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: About that defense – not quite the second coming of the 1978-79 Montreal Canadiens, are they? Also troubling, considering some of the Sabres’ more recent salary-related departures, is the prospect of losing another top talent to the annual summer bidding wars. For that reason, Afinogenov or Connolly could be dealt midway through the year, adding another potentially sorry chapter to a book Buffalonians have grown weary with.
9. Ottawa Senators
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: Jason Spezza + Daniel Alfredsson + Dany Heatley = Lots of goals. Even better: this guy has been banned from Scotiabank Place for good.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: I understand there are Sens fans out there who will look at any prediction that puts their team out of the playoffs, raise the back of their hand to their forehead, and steady themselves with their free hand in an effort not to faint. To them I say: After a sterling 15-0-2 start to the ’07-08 season, Ottawa went 28-29-8 the rest of the way, then folded like a jittery poker coward in the first round of the post-season. You really think it’s a gargantuan stretch to imagine them falling two places in the standings?
10. Florida Panthers
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: Did any goalie duo in the league last season do as quietly excellent of a job as Tomas Vokoun and Craig Anderson? Not if their NHL-best .922 combined save percentage is any indication. And they should be all the more stingy now that GM Jacques Martin has put one of the East’s best collection of defenders to protect them.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: The Panthers ranked 20th overall in offense last season – and addressed that issue by bringing in…er, Cory Stillman? There’s no doubt he’ll contribute, but if he’s the sum total of your additions up front, what you’re really saying is you’re depending on a more or less identical forward unit. Again. I’m sorry, but until Nathan Horton, Stephen Weiss and Jay Bouwmeester step up and drag this team into the playoffs, they don’t get the benefit of the doubt.
11. New York Rangers
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: Perhaps new faces Markus Naslund, Nikolai Zherdev and Wade Redden will prove their efforts last season were pockmarks on the face of their careers. And perhaps rookie winger Lauri Korpikoski will make fools of those who mistook him for being one of Richie Cunningham’s girlfriends on Happy Days.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: If Brendan Shanahan doesn’t return to the Blueshirts, that’ll be 10 members of last year’s team jettisoned in favor of new faces; that won’t make for the most cohesive unit right out of the blocks. Should Zherdev continue his current career trajectory, he’ll soon arrive at the ‘Boots’ del Biaggio level of fraud-dom. And welcomed into the NHL ownership community shortly thereafter.
12. Carolina Hurricanes
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: Producing goals wasn’t the Canes’ problem last year and likely won’t be this year, even without the injured Justin Williams and departed Erik Cole. Meanwhile, provided he can stay healthy, Joni Pitkanen gives them their best long-term solution on defense since Glen Wesley was acquired from the Bruins in the mid-90s.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: Even with Pitkanen on board, Carolina’s defense is about as small, soft and injury-prone as it ever was. As well, with Peter Laviolette’s name bandied about as one of the first coaches on the chopping block, the pressure to produce could have Carolina’s players squeezing their sticks throughout the season. With a trio of up-and-coming Southeast Division teams (see above) bound to bear down on them, that internal and external pressure could be enough to knock them further down the Southeast’s pecking order.
13. New York Islanders
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: After many before him had failed, Islanders GM Garth Snow convinced owner Charles Wang to build the organization with patience, which is exactly what will be needed while youngsters such as Kyle Okposo and Ben Walter find their NHL legs.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: No NHL team scored fewer goals last season than the Isles; Streit and Weight (which sounds not unlike a high school abstinence program) will help somewhat in that regard, but not nearly enough.
14. Toronto Maple Leafs
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: Toronto’s defense corps actually is one of the better ones in the Eastern Conference. Vesa Toskala doesn’t have to prove anything to anybody anymore. In addition, watching new coach Ron Wilson interact daily with swarms of swarthy local media should be more fun than Leafs games themselves.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: The only way there could be less offense generated by the forward unit is if they took away their sticks. And don’t think that notion won’t cross Wilson’s mind at many points this year.
15. Atlanta Thrashers
Always-Look-On-The-Bright-Side Adam Says: New coach John Anderson never has helmed a losing team in the 13 years he’s been a professional bench boss.
Always-Assume-The-Worst Adam Says: Where to begin? The fact no team took fewer or allowed more shots last year than the Thrashers, who essentially didn’t change for this season? The fact a franchise that finished in the bottom third of the league in offense, defense, power play and penalty kill in ’07-08 added only Jason Williams, Marty Reasoner and Junior Lessard to their forwards, and former waiver wire-rider Ron Hainsey to their defense? The fact Colby Armstrong is their top right winger?
Adam Proteau is writer and columnist for The Hockey News and a regular contributor to THN.com. His blog appears Mondays, his Ask Adam feature appears Fridays and his column, Screen Shots, appears Thursdays.
For more great profiles, news and views from the world of hockey, Subscribe to The Hockey News magazine.
Michael (Posted 2008-10-03 11:52:10)
To all you Leafs fans,,pray ya finish at bottom,,get your hands on one of those 2 top picks,,not like ya,ll winning a cup this year anyways..Myself Hedman is guy I would want but Tavares is very good too.Leafs are finally going about it right is my thinking,,Good Luck,,,,
Michael (Posted 2008-10-03 11:41:39)
Hey there Bugs,,me again,,watched game other nite MTL vs Wings you beat em in shootout,,,from what I saw Detroit dominated the puck posession pretty well start to finish..You guys took lots on penalties and had pretty well all you players in there,,they wee missing Lidstrom,Datsuk & Zetteberg,,,Not saying you can,t win er,,but from what I saw,(exhibition,I know) I would not bet one red cent you could knock them off..And I am not saying this to sound saucy my friend,,I just see Detroit as team that will not dump puck you got to go take it from them,,thus in the box time,,The habs are a different team but the playoffs are a different kind of hockey then regular season too..Love chatting hockey with ya & I could very well be wrong but my money stays on wings,,Later bud,,
Braden Rea (Posted 2008-10-02 15:37:20)
Leafsfan- I am also a TML fan, and i dunno if they will finish that high or not. But I am not getting my hopes up. Also, if they did finish in one of those positions you mentioned, that would be terrible for the team. That means they will have finished in about the same spot as the last few years. Look where that got them.......the same position next year. Erik- Toskala is not a mediocre goalie. He may not rank up with the elite of the league, but he is much better than mediocre. I even think he is in the top half of the league easily. And you are also wrong about Antropov. He will actually have to play an entire season in order to be our leading scorer, that guy is made of glass and needs to play with Sundin to be really effective, or some other player more talented than him.
Erik (Posted 2008-10-02 11:34:30)
LeafsFan, you get that 9th or 10th doesn't make the playoffs right? Plus Toronto has no hope of getting anywhere near that high. Toskala is mediocre and will crack under the media pressure, and Nik Antropov is going to be your leading scorer? Sundin isn't coming back to Toronto, you guys are screwed.
LeafsFan (Posted 2008-10-02 10:43:58)
Leafs make the playoffs I don't care what people say and that's what makes me a true fan of TML! I'm not saying Top 5 I'm saying 10th to 7th this team is just as good as NJ and Carolina and Buffalo I don't see how they can't compete with those teams.
GO LEAFS GO
Brink McB (Posted 2008-10-01 14:26:56)
The Rangers to finish 11th? This clown obviously does not know hockey.
Bugs (Posted 2008-10-01 04:41:43)
Michael. The Mtl team you're thinking of doesn't exist anymore. The Mtl team you saw in the last playoffs was a COMPLETELY new team...of inexperienced kids. Kids who kicked BUTT all the way to the 2nd round. All we know of this new Mtl team is that they're DANG good, Mike. It is in fact MORE reasonable to suppose Mtl's presence in the Final than Detroit. Consider: No team, except Dallas, has won more than ONE ROUND of a playoff after being in the Final the year before in what? 12 years? Not "winning the Cup", Mike; being in the Final! Dallas won 2. Statistically speaking, following the grade-curve, Mtl has higher chance of Final presence probability. This is not to say I don't recognize what you're saying, I do. It would be crazy to attach such a mantle to Detroit, even though we said the same of the Devils, Caners, Wingers (before), Duckies and Sens. And surely some teams are ROUGHER than us, if not bigger or stronger, I understand what yer sayin'. But uhhhh...Mikey? I think we'll be alright, mate. Who can outlast us in the East? WHO? Anyone you mention has something on their plate too. We've added size, fists and more talent to the team we had last year. Our closest competetion (Pens) have slipped back.The Flyers? Excellent team. But they didn't beat us in the playoffs; we beat ourselves. Ask'em! They'll say they KNOW they can beat us (which they certainly can) but they also admit we're a better team. I doubt we woulda fallen in 5 to the Pens as we both play the same game and, verily, shared the points during the season. We were RIGHT THERE, Mike. So, I think the East is ours this year. And now, I'm starting to think we might be able to go up against the Champs too. Of course nothing is certain, Michael.....except my confidence. Am I deluded? We'll see. Peace Out.
jake degarmo (Posted 2008-09-30 23:48:03)
Lou,& Devils owners:please trade Broduer to a team thats trying to win,Im a devils fan and I couldnt even watch last year.Not to put players down,but ur defense[stinks]you cant be for real,sticking those guys in front of someone who made ur franchise what it is.P.S.old school hockey is over ur gonna have to actually spend $$$ now and get a goal scorer.......
A.Kovalev (Posted 2008-09-30 22:56:46)
Michael,I've posted this in the past,but I will repeat it again.Go to the 'teams' button in black at the top of any article.Go to the Habs site and look at the heights/weights column,then go and check the other teams in the east.Montreal compares favourably size wise with any team in the east and I suspect the entire league.There seems to be a myth circulating that the Habs are a small team and it's simply not true.Probably propagated by anti Montreal types.
Michael (Posted 2008-09-30 17:34:57)
Bugs I will agree on Wings being there,,but as far as MTL ,,I dunno..they got far to many guys who get bullied off the puck..Come playoffs its a different animal & no one can tell me teams will not go out of their way to punish the small players they have..Your talking 4 tough rounds in short time..Last year they near run out of gas in 1st round..true they added big George but I just can,t see it.still way to early,,but as of now I bet against that..
Michael (Posted 2008-09-30 17:27:44)
Read a nice article today.It was about more downsizing of goalies equipment.i think that is great news myself.i love more goals.Perhaps this will make for less need to give out so many powerplays.
Jim Gordon (Posted 2008-09-30 08:04:13)
You make a good point about the cohesiveness of the Rangers, but come on this is a top 5 or 6 team in the east. They will make the playoffs no problem. I do think your a little over confident in the Philadelphia Flyers, Canadians, and Bruins. Either way it will be a tight and exciting season! Lets drop the puck!
Flamer89 (Posted 2008-09-30 07:51:27)
Tks Clouk!
Bugs (Posted 2008-09-30 04:10:21)
That's a VERY interesting point, Ben Hall. I hadn't thought of that. I mean, who cares about the S-E, right? (just kiddin') But yeah, with Schneider, the Trashers DEFINITELY contend for best D in S-E. Wouldn't go so far as to call them candidates for 1st in division, but still, that's an interesting point...As for who ends up in the Final, listen: I'm not saying "Chisel this in stone" and yes, I'm AM biased (but not too much and you must consider that nowhere in the archives of previous years will you find a post of mine that says the following:) I see La Sainte-Flanelle against Detroit City (which proves I've never "deluded myself" until now). Now right or wrong, that's not an UNSAFE call. It DOES have a REASONABLE probability of success. To make that call CANNOT be considered foolish. Now as to who wins? The truth hurts too much so I refuse to speculate. It's our birthday, ferpetessakes. I will say THIS: To not give credit where it is due is weakness. Frankie? Great post! Brilliant post! Aye, Victory rules. But in Mtl, Victory is not enough. Only Triumph. Peace Out.
Ben Hall (Posted 2008-09-30 01:28:38)
With the addition of Schneider the Thrashers arguably have the top defense in the SE division with Enstrom, Havelid, Schneider, Hainsey, Bogosian, and Exelby/Valabik. If Erik Christensen and Brian Little take a step forward this year, then the Thrashers will compete for a playoff spot. They won't be finishing behind Toronto and the Islanders, thats for sure. (Also Jason Williams will be our top RW not Colby Armstrong, but I'm hoping we sign Ouellet to shore up the RW)
Nick (Posted 2008-09-29 21:15:42)
Well in the 2000's alone Detroit has won the cup twice, is that called choking? In some peoples eyes no, but realistically they probably had a team in each of those years to win 5. For probably 5 of 8 years Detroit has won the Presidents trophy, or has finished 2nd in points. I call choking losing to teams when they had a chance to finish them in the playoffs... if you think about it Detroit could be going for 3 in a row in they wanted too.
Frankie (Posted 2008-09-29 19:07:40)
I never post but Nick , if Detroit chokes like they did last year, well I for one will be betting on them. Now go to a dictionary and look up the word choke. May we all "choke" like the Red Wings choke.
Nick (Posted 2008-09-29 18:37:23)
Well Michael, my dream match up .. grit and skill vs grit and skill probably won't happen but I don't imagine Detroit making the finals, yes they have the skill to win, but as we all know , they tend to choke in the playoffs. Therefore my prediction of Philly .. Cal stands.
Michael (Posted 2008-09-29 17:48:00)
Hey Habs fans Alex Tanguay,,never heard of him is he a waterboy,,,lol
Michael (Posted 2008-09-29 17:45:19)
hey Nick ,,good points you make,,but sorry to say Cal vs flyers hahaha thats not going to happen.Detroit will repeat easily,,wait and see....
Etienne (Posted 2008-09-29 12:06:04)
Kevy G is right. Only Crosby and Malkin are allowed to improve, so they should finish first in the East. It's obvious that guys like Richards, Coburn, Ovechkin, Backstrom, Green, Price, the Kostitsyn bros, Plekanec reached their limit. And Simon Gagné won't even get 10 goals this season, AMIRITE?!? /sarcasm off. Take off the homer googles.
Jude Hannaford (Posted 2008-09-29 11:17:18)
D'oh, as much as some west coast fans might like it, I suspect that it would be pretty tough for a Pacific team to win the east. Please insert Atlantic or Patrick for those who long for the good ole' days.
Jude Hannaford (Posted 2008-09-29 11:11:51)
A couple of surprises to me here. Jay, I posted pretty much exactly what you said a few weeks ago on a different site. Either Was or Mtl win the east, the Pacific is just too competitive. There could easily be four teams making the playoffs this year from that division. Anyhow that is about as far as my predictions go. All I know for sure is that the only blue and white we will see in the playoffs this year will be accompanied by red.
Kevy G (Posted 2008-09-29 10:01:05)
Everybody seems to be assuming that Crosby, Malkin, and Staal have reached some kind of a skill plateau. They are still on the rise as players and should single handedly be able to make up for the penguins silly-season losses. At least as long as thier health doesn't become an issue. I will admit that the current defensive woes may create issues for the beginning of the season, but come January, you will probably see that the Penguins are better than last years playoff Penguins.
Everybody is talking about the Red Wings being the first repeat champions in the post CBA NHL, but doesn't even mention that the Penguins may be one of the few to break the Stanley Cup finals loss curse.
Habernack! (Posted 2008-09-28 23:29:10)
Not that bad of a prediction. I personally think my Habs wil finish first for the simple fact that Northeast division is rather weak this season. Can't say that much for the Atlantic division, they usually grab 4 playoff spots.You are ranking Tampa too high, you cannot say that Ottawa has horrible defense and goaltending(even though they do,I'm scared that they kept Gerber, just get Khabibulin or something) but then put Tampa higher. They lack any sort of defense or goaltending. Also....seeing how getting Gomez and Drury wasn't so good for the Rangers, I'm far less threatened by their acquisitions this year(Redden is so overrated,this is when you are happy having a GM who signs Markov for 4,5 million for 5 years)I still believe they will make the playoffs, in 6th 7th or 8th but I'm quite sure they will. So if I may here are my predictions 1)Montreal2)Philly3)Capitals4)Penguins5)NewJersey6)Rangers7)Ottawa8)Carolina/Boston . I don't know if anybody agrees but as of now before the season starts this should be the general guideline of the season for the east. And to those who say Habs are not Playoff materials haven't watched that Flyers series is all I have to say. All our acquisitions are godly in perspective with what we let go Tanguay for Ryder and Lang for Smolinski. Also, I don't think they flyers will be allowed to fool around Carey Price with Laraque on the ice. But what am I a prophet anyway????? just have a good hockey season everyone!!!! barely 2 weeks now I can't wait!!
Bugs (Posted 2008-09-28 17:13:32)
To the bashers: Instead of bashing the author's predictions as to the final standings, why don't you just put up the a "perfect prediction" of your own? Huh? I assume that you have a PERFECT, UNDISPUTABLE prediction, right? So put it up. See if it DOESN'T get bashed. Ok? It's just a bloody OPINION. Ok? As valid as your own, DESPITE what you think. As for myself, I think the Flyers are DEFINITELY a top6 team and that the Rangers are Finished. That's my opinion. I also disagree with the author that my Boys will finish 2nd instead of 1st, but that's a question of OPINION. Doesn't mean I question the guy's ability to "perceive hockey through the fog of his drug-induced delusion and incompetence at correctly analysing the game". Drugs you then ask him to get for you...so you can be incompetent like him??? Say: I disagree. Or: I personally believe... Or: Here are MY predictions. Any clown can bash. Takes a man to propose a different idea and stand by it, KNOWING it's not flawless. Cuz guess what? There IS no wise-old man. Even Bowman didn't see it all. So put up YOUR predictions or YOUR opinion before you all-knowingly, grand-guruesquely dimiss another's opinion with bile and insolence. My opinion. Peace Out.
Nick (Posted 2008-09-27 23:26:02)
Allen I would agree with you about the rangers making the playoffs, but the Flyers not being a top 6 team.. are you on drugs? if so which ones? If you can name 6 teams that are better then the Flyers and WHY, don't just spue crap out of your mouth because you don't like the Flyers. How can you justify the Caps being good. They have no depth, their defence is shady and we all know how a good offense fairs with Theodore.. (if you don't know look at the seris between Detroit and them :D) Sorry bud, the Flyers are too good not to be in the top 6, I'd put them as high as 1 or as low as 4
Allen Ragonnet (Posted 2008-09-27 11:54:32)
How does someone like you get to write for THN. You know nothing and seem all about trying to make unfunny jokes. The Rangers will make the playoffs, the Flyers will not be in the top 6 in the conference. The Islanders are a lock for 15th. Watch out for the Caps if Chris Clark can stay healthy and also Mr. Nylander. Goaltending is the key to their being number one. I don't know why I even read your stuff.
Mike K. (Posted 2008-09-27 10:43:22)
Hey Newf:Don't get your knickers in a knot.Your 'this is a free country' statement works both ways don't you think?I can also comment as I choose.Your anti-Montreal sentiment blinds you.I'm not saying The Habs will win the cup,but I do believe they'll finish top 3 or 4 in the conference along with Philly and the Pens,be a dogfight all year.By the way,I didn't say you were dumb,just your comment.If you want to call me dumb,be my guest.And RIM is at $78,my advice is to buy.
Nick (Posted 2008-09-26 22:53:56)
Doug are u on Mexican Cocaine.... if you can look at the teams in the East theres noone with the depth of the Flyers and saying Biron is inconsitant is very irrelevent considering we saw 3 solid playoff seris. Briere doesn't fall during the playoffs if anything he thrives. Gagne won't get smoked like Lindros because he keeps his head up. The only reason he got the concussion in the first place was a blind side when he was changing. So the Flyers in the cup finals thanks... come agian
Doug MacKenzie (Posted 2008-09-26 21:14:34)
The Flyers in the finals? Surely you jest or you`re on LSD!!!! The first hard hit that Gagne takes will put him on Lindros street and he will miss at least half of the season. Biron is inconsistent and Briere gets ground down by the end of the season and has nothing left for the playoffs. Plus you need to have a strong backcheck which the Flyers do not.
Uncle Ducky (Posted 2008-09-26 20:59:55)
To Iamnewfie1:What in the hell was that assine comment to Mike K supposed to represent?Does anyone have a clue as to what was said in this post?
gromack (Posted 2008-09-26 19:49:25)
Rangers at 11? You have got to be kidding me. Clearly everyone else agrees. Your rationale is ludicrous. Sure they have new players but did you look at Tampa's roster? Lots of new players and a new coaching staff too. Next time take your own advice and stay away from making predictions. These are downright silly. Normally like your stuff, but this reeks.
Tara (Posted 2008-09-26 19:06:43)
If NYR finishes 11th in the East then Ryan Hollweg scores 20 goals with the Leafs.
no.way.
Flyer guy 16 (Posted 2008-09-26 17:58:55)
Any trade to Vancouver involving Carter has to include Kesler coming back, him and Bieksa for Carter and Jones maybe? I wouldn't trade Carter unless they're getting a top 4 d-man and a solid two way centre.
Flyerfan52 (Posted 2008-09-26 17:58:19)
Nick, I've been waiting years to see that match-up in the final. A few years ago it looked probable. That would be interesting! Good point about Nylander & Gags too.
Habs4Life (Posted 2008-09-26 17:33:57)
As a huge Habs fan, I can agree that they may not finish 1st in the conference, but to suggest that they will fight for the final two playoff spots is rediculous. Some of you need to give your heads a shake. The Habs will finish in the top 4. Boston will be luckey to make the playoffs. Very suspect goaltending in Boston. Ottawa will make the playoffs and will be the only team in the Northeast to challenge the Habs for first in the division. My predictions: 1) Montreal 2) Pittsburgh 3) Washington 4) Ottawa 5) Philly 6) New York Rangers 7) New Jersey 8) Boston
Hockeyfan1 (Posted 2008-09-26 17:05:49)
graham...you didn't even have to mention that your a Leafs Fan. I knew it as soon as I saw the opening comment. You Leaf Fans like a lot of Torontonians have become so used to see the crap that gets put out there year after year that you don't want anyone else to have any success. Before you say it, I know Ottawa has never beaten the Leafs in the Playoffs. Fair point but how can the Sens ever change that if Toronto's never in???? Yes the Sens finished 7th last year but this year's edition will compete on every shift. Change in Coach, new grittier players and don't forget offensively they still have Spezza, Heatly, Alfredsson and Vermette so enjoy watching the Playoffs in your trailer because I'll be at Scotiabank Place enjoying the Sens.
Nick (Posted 2008-09-26 16:59:22)
Michael saying if Nylander was back the caps would have beat the Flyers is like saying the Flyers would have beat the Pens with Gagne back. In fact say Nylander came back and so did Gagne, do you think the Caps would have made it to game 7? Probably not, 1 Gagne is a pure goalscorer and 2 he is very good at defence. As for someone below who stated the Flyers would miss Smith, well lets see he was here for 1 year and requested a trade half way through the year.so it wasn't a big lose.. Its the Mike Richards era ladys and gentlemen, get use to it. Richards , Gagne Briere on first line... DIRTY.. second line Carter, Hartnell, Lupul... DIRTY.. oh as for the defence... faster and more stay at home, perfect for a high offensive team like the Flyers. Cup Finals the Flyers and Calgray(going out on a limb with the flames .. Big Burt has to have a huge year for this to happen)
jan (Posted 2008-09-26 16:34:54)
Some teams made changes in their rosters to improve their team. Some teams look good on paper. It'll take good coaching, players who are willing to work hard to help their team EVERY shift, EVERY period in EVERY game, players staying relatively healthy, players in the minors who can help out when called up, some grit and some heart, and some luck to make the playoffs. Anything can happen. I'm a Sabres fan -- I'm hoping the lessons learned from last season and the changes made with players will help them make the playoffs.
graham (Posted 2008-09-26 15:56:05)
The caps DID beat Philly last year... politics piss me off haha And yeah what's with this Rangers drop of the century?? They'll Finish 6th.
Michael (Posted 2008-09-26 15:39:35)
Montreal is very good on offence but way to soft nearly lost last year to 8th seed and did lose to Philly more because of beating Bruins put on em as compared to how good Philly is.Capitals have Nylander back and would have beaten Philly had he been healthy last postseason.Capitals will be near top if Theodore gives them anything in nets. Devils are not too good this year.If Brodeur does not stand on his head its over for them for sure.You are underestimating the Rangers bigtime,,did you forget they have one of the best goaltenders in hockey??Pittsburgh will pay this year for trading for Hossa,,hope they get what they deserve,,but then again you can,t touch them,,so they get PP after PP.All in All its pretty well another year where we all wish for our team to win for nothing because the Redwings are in a class all by themselves......Can you say back to back cups,,,,?
graham (Posted 2008-09-26 15:32:15)
Hockeyfan1... well, I can't say you're completely... umm wrong? But, wow hahaha. They have been on the decline for the last couple seasons and as I do believe they'll make the playoffs, I get wayyyyy more satisfaction watching them get slapped around like the little... beaches... that they are. Love Spezza, but that's about it. Hopefully one day he plays for a REAL TRUE BLOODED Canadian team... And yes before you ask, I am a Leafs fan, they are going to be untalented on the offensive end no doubt, they most likely won't make the playoffs, but I'd root for any cellar dweller that has HEART over a team like the Sens any day.
lee (Posted 2008-09-26 15:28:46)
ottawa will be better this year, their defence is much improved, redden was a cancer, he went from team canada defenceman to looking like skelator from He-man.
tampa bay would need Marty brodeur in net from them to contend for a playoff spot
Flyerfan52 (Posted 2008-09-26 15:27:21)
Sorry Brad but the only player on the Canuck roster that would be a proper exchange for Carter is Luongo. Of course out there they consider him better than Brodeur and would expect a package of Crosby, Malkin and Fleury from the Pens to consider trading him. And, Briere was moved to the wing so Carter is 2nd line center. He'll also get time on PP and PK. Scary to think a talent like Giroux might not make the team because of depth. I predict 2nd in the east and they win the conference. Also, I'm not pro-Ottawa but think the changes they made will help them. They brought in leadership (like Smith) and got rid of distractions. The team may or not miss Smith but I will.
Ranger RIck (Posted 2008-09-26 15:02:18)
hockeyfan1's objections to your Ottawa placement are hilarious. "Drop in the standings? Maybe. Miss the playoffs? Not a chance." he says. They finished 7th in the standings! Drop more than one spot and they are missing the playoffs.
Chris (Posted 2008-09-26 14:38:19)
iamnewfie1 (Posted 2008-09-25 16:56:54)
Look for pittsburgh and Washington to be ahead of montreal and maybe Boston to surprise ...also Ottawa has too many guns to finish 9Th ,maybe look for them to finsh 7Th with montreal and the islanders battling for the final spot in the east...it will be a tough year for Toronto ...
worst.analysis.ever. The islanders fighting for a playoff spot? hahaha you have got to be kidding me
Brad Bonham (Posted 2008-09-26 14:21:27)
I'm going to make a bold prediction that Philly is going to dearly miss Jason Smith's veteran presence and Jeff Carter will be unhappy with his lack of prime center icetime stuck behind Briere and Mike Richards. So Carter will be forced to play the wing where he won't be as effective. Canucks owner Aquillini will realize that he made A HUGE mistake in hiring an ex-agent to be his GM and hire former Tampa Bay GM and PROVEN Stanley Cup Championship team builder Jay Feaster (DIDN'T BUY IT - Drafted well and made a series of excellent trades) and they didn't play the neutral zone trap so it was actually exciting to watch. Carter can come with Steve Eminger to Vancouver for Kevin Bieksa. We'll even throw in Kyle Wellwood. Hartnell and Downie can beat him up in the dressing room.
Scott R (Posted 2008-09-26 13:56:54)
Hey Adam,
Last year, I doubted your predictions. This year, your analysis looks pretty right on to me. I especially think that you're right about the Flyers depth as what makes them so formidable. It's possible that the leading scorer in the QMJHL, Claude Giroux may not even make the team. and if so their biggest problem is who plays on line if Briere sticks at wing? If I were a coach, I wish I had those problems.
Shane Carroll (Posted 2008-09-26 13:41:53)
Can someone please tell me if Patrick O Sullivan showed up to training camp yet for the kings
steve (Posted 2008-09-26 13:39:40)
Adam, why does the Rangers' makeover give them a chemistry problem, but Tampa Bay's does not?
clouk (Posted 2008-09-26 13:25:18)
flame - i have no problem accessing the western predictions directly in the 'Columns' menu. g'luck.
Flamer89 (Posted 2008-09-26 13:14:10)
Hey, can anyone actually access Proteau's Western Conference predicitions link above? I cannot. Can this be found anywhere else on THN website?
rob c (Posted 2008-09-26 12:53:32)
Pittsburgh>Philly, Montreal and has pwned the Caps for a decade. I think its laughable that people doubt them and their depth chart. Sure were missing major pieces to the puzzle but the absence of gonchar makes it possible to put malkin on the wing closest to sid and when you combine that with either staal, satan or sykora i think you'll find a pp unit that any gm would lose his left nut for. Also Max Talbot is the most underrated 3.4th line center in the game. Janne Pesonen will be a monster.
Hockeyfan1 (Posted 2008-09-26 12:38:27)
I generally don't like to bash writers because everyone is entitled to their opinions but having said that how can you have Ottawa out of the playoffs? If they had not made any changes than yes I would agree but here's the additions: Jason Smith, Alex Auld, Jurku Ruutu, Brad Isbister (maybe), Flip Kuba and Craig Hartsburg as the no BS Coach and the players gone: Ray Emery (cancer in the dressing room, Brian McGratton (see notes on Emery), Wade Reddon (hasn't been the same since Chara left), Mike Commodore (sucked ass in the playoffs) and Cory Stillman (hated to see him go).
In essence they have jetted out all the problem guys and brought in character guys that will only benefit the team performance.
Drop in the standings? Maybe. Miss the playoffs? Not a chance.
clouk (Posted 2008-09-26 12:24:48)
i agree with 'newf', give or take a few spots mind you. Prots, ottawa in 9th place? not such.
*a little sidenote to mike k., go post your comments on the 'angry deuschbag web forum'...and leave the real hockey fans alone. deusch.
DaveNYR (Posted 2008-09-26 12:08:27)
Adam-- It is obvious that you do not have a biased article. Can you be a worthy hockey writer and do not favor one team over another. Being a Ranger fan, I can see that you hate them. Are you a hockey expert? Your picks are suprising (as for all the other teams as well).
Captain Kerr (Posted 2008-09-26 12:04:47)
Looks good to me, but I don't think Tampa will make the playoffs. Replace them with either Ottawa or Carolina (more likely Ottawa).
iamnewfie1 (Posted 2008-09-26 11:55:40)
hey this is for you mile.k ,do you type as you look?...then my mule friend you must be one sorry looking individual...proud to be newfie here and when i last looked this was a free country that one could make a free comment...a lot of people died to give an idiot like you that choice it seems...freedom of speech ,even if you do not like it..so get along and stupid up somewhere else...
Eric (Posted 2008-09-26 11:20:35)
How do you put the Rangers out of the playoffs in 11th place. They have made it the past 3 seasons. Yes, they might have a nearly brand new team but the same defense (maybe even better) and the same old Henrik Lundqvist. Last year offense was their problem and they made the playoffs. This year, the only problem that they might have is chemistry on offense. They are a better, more well-rounded team. I don't see how you allow the devils in the playoffs without adding the Rangers with them, a clearly better team.
Nick (Posted 2008-09-26 10:47:18)
I love the picks except I'd put the rangers in 7th, tampa in 8th and Buffalo missing the playoffs. As a Flyers fan I would have to totally agree. The depth the Flyers have they have the potiental to have 5 30 goal scorers (Richards, Briere, Gagne, Carter, Knuble or even Lupul) there defence is strong , at the moment if you look at it its Kimmo, Coburn, Jones, Eminger, Parent, Ossi, Kukks, and Berard. The last 4 spots have been very competitive throughout training camp and has really been a great boost for the whole defence. Biron has been solid in net, I watch him in London last night, I can't figure out how players score on him, he is a monster in net.The only way the Flyers don't finish tops in the east is if Biron gets hurt for a serious amount of time although J.S Aubin did play well last night. I don't see the Pens doing much considering that have no depth like they did last year, not to meantion Goncher and Whitney hurt for sometime at the start of the year. GO FLYERS GO!!!!!!!!
Rangers57 (Posted 2008-09-26 10:46:23)
Here we are having NOT played (1) regular season game, teams NOT finalizing their roster spots and yet we are talking about who will finish where? Ok I'll bite! While I think the first (4) spots of your picks sound good, it's the next (4) that I have a problem with. Positions 4 thru 8 I think could be grabbed by (not in any order) Boston, Devils, Ottawa, Rangers, Carolina. I don't see Tampa, Sabres, Panthers but we haven't played (1) game as yet. I will wait until possibly 20 or so games into the season before I put my neck in a noose. Too many teams with to many question marks to make any predications right now.
Babare (Posted 2008-09-26 10:07:07)
It's not the offense who sank the Bruins against Montreal but the so-so performance of Thomas. The Bruins outplayed Monytreal in 4 of the 7 games and should have, technically, won that series...
MadH (Posted 2008-09-26 09:52:38)
((((1)Pittsburgh Penguins
2)Montreal Canadiens
3)Tampa Bay Lightning
4)Ottawa Senators
5)Boston Bruins
6)Philadelphia Flyers
7)Washington Capitals
8)New Jersey Devils
9)New York Rangers
10)Carolina Hurricanes
11)Buffalo Sabres
12)Toronto Maple Leafs
13)Atlanta Thrashers
14)Florida Panthers
15)New York Islanders)))))))I don't think the Canadiens are going to finish on top of the east again because Boston is going to be a tougher opponent for them this year. I also don't believe in the total demise of the Senators. The Northeast is going to be tougher then people are predicting. I got the Bolts in third due to the biggest weakness being between the pipes last season. I think Mike Smith that they got at the trade deadline is going to fix that. The Devils and Rangers could flop positions.
G Money (Posted 2008-09-26 09:11:15)
Well Adam, i am shocked that you actually picked Philly to finish first. After the way you kinda bashed them last year. Very much a surprise!! And i do have to appoligize to you for attacking you last year under the alias, adamproteausucks. I had no right. Anyway i think your predictions are pretty much right on the money.
To Kevin, do you really think the Pens will really win the cup?? Come back to earth. 3 guys don't make for winning a cup. They didn't do it last year with the team they had, you really think there gonna do it now after losing half there team.
Brian Kemp (Posted 2008-09-26 08:15:42)
Good picks, but I think the Rangers and the Hurricanes make it in at the expense of Tampa and Buffalo. I also think the Caps are first in the east, for pretty much the same reason that Jay picked the Canadiens to finish first. I think, barring injuries, the Flyers are the team that will come out of the east (Pittsburgh lost too much depth, and the Caps haven't made it out of the first round, yet). Also, how can anyone pick any team other than the Islanders to finish in the basement this year? I mean, Toronto's forwards are AHL at best, but their D is good, as is their goaltending, and the Thrashers at least have a true superstar. What have the Isles got? Prospects, sure, but on their NHL roster, it's a PP specialist as their number 1 D, Mike Comrie as their top center, and a goalie whose last two seasons have ended early due to hip problems. Seriously, no way these guys finish 13th in the conference. More than likely, they are the best bet for Tavares or Hedman.
Red Zepplin (Posted 2008-09-26 00:49:46)
I agree that Ottawa link was ridiculous. I can't believe that actually happened. Now, am I the only one that thinks Tampa is going to be in the running for Tavares this season? They have no defense and suspect goaltending. Other than their first line, they have a whole new team, so their offense isn't even going to come around right away. I think they fall into a big hole early and sneak up to 12th by the end of the season. As for who makes the playoffs, I think Montreal, New Jersey, Washington, Philly, Pittsburgh, Boston, Rangers, Carolina. With it being something close to that order. One the bubble are Ottawa, Buffalo, Florida. I know noone is picking Carolina to make it, but this team seems to bounce back strongly from poor seasons and with a healthy Brind'Amour, Pitkanen in the fold, and another year of maturity for Eric Staal and Cam Ward, I think another bounce back year is not unreasonable.
Ian (Posted 2008-09-26 00:23:45)
Nice see someone pick the Flyers to win the divison. Though I have to defend Zherdev he actually had a very good season last year, he even back checked and everything. He hasn't lit the world on fire, but really he's only had one bad season in 2006-07 (and I've heard that his girlfriend had a miscarriage which wieghed heavily on him). Like I said he hasn't lived up to the superstar potential/projections, but I'm not sure where all this negative stuff people says about him comes from.
David (Posted 2008-09-26 00:08:29)
Tampa looks great on paper. They made a lot of good moves this summer. I say they'll definitely make the playoffs, and I wouldn't be shocked if they won their division.
John (Posted 2008-09-26 00:01:52)
god damn right the flyers are taking the east
Mark (Posted 2008-09-25 23:02:02)
Dan Kelly is dead on. The only problem I think could be the defense.
Mike (Posted 2008-09-25 22:57:46)
Grim offseason woes in Buffalo? Did you miss the long term signings of Gaustad, Pominville, Miller, Roy, Vanek and Hecht? Losing Afinogenov might actually not turn out to be a bad thing.
glenn (Posted 2008-09-25 22:52:31)
I'm a big time Flyers fan but I don't think they are a number one team yet...they were only two games away from missing the playoffs last year, and needed game seven to beat what was arguably an equally as good as , if not better team then philly. Next round montreal was the better team on the ice every game...Biron stole the series. Then we all know what Pitts. did to us...yup handed us our lunch straight-up. No i think Philly has improved but I see them as a 5th or 6th place team.
Tie Domi (Posted 2008-09-25 22:41:55)
Yah, that link is hilarious. Sens fans should be ashamed. I must, against all morals, disagree with the Sens finishing out of the playoffs. I have to think this team has made enough of a turn around in the locker room to get back to the hockey they played two years ago. Drug problem?
Alicia (Posted 2008-09-25 22:26:00)
Great picks. Haha I'll be a total homer about it and agree. But I really picked the Flyers to finish second and the Canadiens to finish 1st. But this definitely works better for me. And the guy way down below me that called Biron a backup must be crazy. You obviously were one of the critics before he started in the playoffs that claimed he's nothing but a backup. He's way more than that. He was their hero in the playoffs. He was amazing. I honestly think the Flyers are a team to beat in the East and can surprise a lot of people this season. They have such great depth up front.
Chris (Posted 2008-09-25 22:12:14)
Not to be rude but mclaus' prediction can't happen. I'm sure it was just a typo though. Any hockey fan knows that the first 3 seeds are determined by the 3 division winners. here is my call in the East
1) Montreal 2) Philadelphia 3) Washington 4) Buffalo 5) Pittsburgh
6) New Jersey 7) NY Rangers 8) Ottawa
Gordon (Posted 2008-09-25 21:51:14)
Did anyone else click on the link? How did the senators players allow that to happen?
mclaus1 (Posted 2008-09-25 21:43:45)
Here are my predictions for the eastern conference 1)Pittsburgh 2)Montreal 3)Philadelphia 4)New Jersey 5)Buffalo 6) Washington 7)NY Rangers 8)Tampa Bay
flo (Posted 2008-09-25 21:34:29)
ha! i want to say it now so i can say an "i told you soo comment later" note this in the off season.... "THE OTTAWA SENATORS DON'T FINISH BELLOW 6TH"... geez just cuz things fall downwards a little, this is a new year, a very new team with some smart young tallent and just watch for some trading coming our way. you'll be lucky if they finish 6th.
pfff... i won't predict anyting else for any other teams cuz it's called "INJURIES"... you just can't predict anymore. an yes i believe in Darth Gerber.
Mike K. (Posted 2008-09-25 21:23:17)
iamnewfie1: your comments on this site are just as dumb as they are on the TSN site.If at the end of the season the Habs are fighting for the final playoff spot,I'll be coming to you for stock market advice.
Dan Kelly (Posted 2008-09-25 20:49:56)
I would think Ottawa over TB but Boston might sneak over them.
Matt (Posted 2008-09-25 20:48:38)
Tampa & Boston over Ottawa are you smoking CRACK!!! The only team to have more consecutive playoff apearances than the sens is detroit and ther just always great. Ottawa will make the playoffs once again and you'll all be wrong.
Eras (Posted 2008-09-25 20:39:29)
lol dave you forgot about Atlanta ;)
Dan Kelly (Posted 2008-09-25 20:37:01)
Love the pics. Flyers depth at forward is untouchable. Young D should be improved over last season and Marty's playoff performance bumps him up a notch this year. Devils will be a bit better this year, and watch out for a disappointing season from the Pens. Also, don't believe all the Caps hype. AO is a phenom. Semin,Backstrom and Green are up and comers but beyond that..... No goalie, suspect D and little toughness.
Flyerfan52 (Posted 2008-09-25 20:36:22)
As guessing goes, here's mine for the East: 1) Habs, 2)Flyers, 3)Caps, 4) Pens, 5) NYR, 6)Sens, 7)Devils & 8)Hurricanes. That's 4 from the division, but it is so good. Sens dumped some decent players but came out stronger. Montreal just is going to over-achieve or ditch in the 100 year (& I'm counting on achieve and then ditch in the playoffs). Caps will keep improving as they mature. Devils are on the way down as Brodeur is the reason they keep making the playoffs. The 'Canes have Brindamour back, the Pens still have Crosby, Malkin and Staal. Rangers also added by subtraction and my handle says who my team is.
dave (Posted 2008-09-25 20:34:55)
1) Toronto Maple Leafs
2) New York Islanders
3) Montreal Canadiens
4) New Jersey Devils
5) Boston Bruins
7) Philli Flyers
6) Ottawa Senators
haha
Lee (Posted 2008-09-25 20:32:46)
these are good predictions, the eastern conference finals will be washington and philly, Pittsburgh lost too much grit, the organization will be singing the blues when teams run Crosby and 'Geno' just like they did before Laraque came from phoenix...montreal's skilled forwards are too soft
washington's question mark is in net, but when they out shoot every team 40-20 it doesn't matter if theodore is in net or Mr. Siv the street hockey goalie
philly is solid all the way through and they have been blessed with hatcher hitting the long-term IR to free up some more money in case of significant injuries or some room to sign sundin half way through the season?
SLocke (Posted 2008-09-25 20:18:04)
i just can't believe that the Leafs are rated above anyone! Ha!
bawston dude (Posted 2008-09-25 20:06:20)
I only have a problem with 2 things on here. The Bolts making it in? With no D and no goaltending? You're dreaming there buddy. They'll be like the Rangers of old. Only worse. Who's going to check the other teams best lines? NOBODY. Who's going to stop the puck after multiple 2-on-1's and 3-on-1's? NOBODY. They'll most likely get shelled for over 250+ goals. You also have Buffalo making it in.....ahead of Carolina and the Rangers? Based on everybody's list and predictions....it only means one thing...anything can happen. Its wide open. Except for the leafs,panthers,thrashers,and islanders. I predict there'll be 5 teams with 100+ points.
krystofur J (Posted 2008-09-25 20:05:55)
Are most you people retarded? The Devils don't lose anyone of significance for a change (other than Brylin) and add some strength down the middle. Rolston's shot and speed will only help the power play and Holik's presence will help Madden and Pandolfo with their defensive responsibilities and improve an already very good penalty kill. Brodeur will go down as the all-time greatest goalie for a reason and with Parise and Martin a year older, they can only get better. The Devils can only go up and for those who don't know, they finished third overall in the conference last year!
Kyle (Posted 2008-09-25 19:52:31)
Wow real undercutting the rangers... i agree they wont be great this year but to say they are not gunna make the playoff let alone come in 11th is silly
daniel (Posted 2008-09-25 19:39:39)
i'm a got out on a limb and say this.1:)new jersey 2:)washington capitals 3:) montreal candiens 4:)philadelphia flyers 5:) pittsburgh penguins 6:) boston bruins 7:) new york rangers 8:) tampa bay lightning. pretty bold prediction but if not in that order the same teams.
Alan (Posted 2008-09-25 19:30:32)
I would love to see my Fly-boys finish first, but I just can't see it happening. They are too inconsistent, and although they do have depth, Biron was not reliable during the season, he only came through in the playoffs.
Adam (Posted 2008-09-25 19:29:55)
I've been saying for months now the Flyers will be the team to beat in the East, it's good to finally have someone agree with me.
TB will miss the playoffs. I do not see how you've got NYR so low, i think they're a sure fire playoff team. I also think that Ottawa is a better team than the bottom teams you've got listed. If they collapse again, they could drop, but I don't predict another collapse like that, so they should be in. I also think Carolina will threaten for a playoff spot... the Bruins will have Bergeron back, but I still believe they'll be closer to the playoff bubble than many seem to... I think Jersey comes in a little later, but I'll never count Brodeur and his gang out until Brodeur is out...
Lastly, I think you may have overestimated Florida, but I guess, as you say, it depends on the play of their budding stars... still I think it's only a matter of how badly they miss the playoffs, regardless of those 3
No question about the bottom 3, I can't imagine anyone having a problem with those ones.
josh (Posted 2008-09-25 18:49:19)
Not bad. I think it might be Montreal, Philly, Tampa, Pittsburgh, New Jersey, Washington, Rangers, Buffalo.
Chris (Posted 2008-09-25 18:34:30)
The top four flip (1.Pitt 2. Wash. 3. Habs 4. Philly) also Tampa and Buffalo should switch....other than that, great predictions.
prashanth (Posted 2008-09-25 18:30:18)
hmmm.... i liked the west predictions much better. I think New Jersey is getting too much credit, Philly will win the division but not be number 1, the Rangers are not getting enough love. Think about it. Last year the Rangers added Gomez and Drury and yet they still finished as high as they did. I think you can go ahead and flip the Rangers and Devils, and then bump the Devils up to 9.
Jeff (Posted 2008-09-25 18:29:53)
I have the flyers finishing first too, they have the best collection of fowards in the East and thats not including Claude Giroux, or James Van Riemsdyk. Devils will finish 8th, Tampa 9th and Rangers 6th, Boston 5th, and Buffalo 7th. I cant believe Adam picked the Rangers to finish 11th, they are deep down the middle, have an elite goalie, some good wingers, and above average defense in redden, staal, girardi, and rosival. Its hard to imagine them missing the playoffs.
Bryce (Posted 2008-09-25 18:11:35)
The predictions are more-or-less what i have. Except, I think the Rangers will squeeze in over the Sabres. The Atlantic is the best division in hockey this year. They will have 4 playoff teams and well, Kyle Okoposo will play on the other one. Ottawa will miss the playoffs and I am not sure if they will even finish in 9th. Gerber and Auld in net with an iffy 'D' and wi 3 and a half good forwards (I'll give Fisher another half if he stays healthy all season) don't equal playoffs.
Flyer guy (Posted 2008-09-25 18:06:10)
While he may not be the second coming of Bernie Parent and winning the division might be optimistic, Biron shouldn't be considered a back up right now. He was very good last year and deserves the benefit of the doubt. This is obviously a huge year in his career.
KTRAIN (Posted 2008-09-25 17:54:33)
There is no way Ottawa misses the playoffs. Hopefully they play the Habs in the first round of the playoffs and show those purse snatchers that regular season success doesn't equal post season success. The Sens have learned their lesson and will play a much tighter checking and hard hitting type of game. Look for Spezza to finally step up and be the two way threat that every team needs as it's number one center.
E Tang (Posted 2008-09-25 17:52:17)
" Jose Theodore might deserve two minutes for lookin’ so good"
lol, man that's funny. This is a great read, and some really good off the wall predictions. Great stuff.
Kevin (Posted 2008-09-25 17:51:40)
Adam, These are some of the worst Atlantic division predictions ever. Penguins not winning division? Flyers winning division with a back up as there starter? Rangers missing the playoffs? Devils making playoffs and as high as they are? WOW alot of dumb predictions Adam. Oh yeah and who is gonna win the cup acording to you the Leafs. Come on Adam you're a great writer but awful predicter. P.S Pens will win the Cup!
Jay (Posted 2008-09-25 17:51:29)
Let me just say it out front: I'm a Pens fan, so I hope I don't sound bitter or bias here.
With all of the problems the Pens have run into this summer, the Flyers very well could be the Atlantic division champions, but they will not be the top of the Eastern Conference. The Atlantic division is simply too competitive. Three of your top five teams were from the Atlantic division, and even though teams play their own divisions less this year with the new schedule, you're still going to see a more even distribution of points among the Pens, Flyers, and Devils. Because of this, I believe that the Canadiens will nab the number 1 spot since they have a less competitive division.
Anyone agree?
John (Posted 2008-09-25 17:20:43)
bow, you're dreaming if you think the Habs are Stanley Cup material. They very well could finish first in the east but talk about a soft team built for the regular season. Do you really think a team like Montreal could win against a team like Dallas? They'd get absolutely destroyed.
bow gagnon (Posted 2008-09-25 17:03:23)
the habs will be first at the end of this year,and will had the 25th cup banner (first one in bell center)by middle of june,just because there's a newfi in boston dont mean they will be higher then the super habs,,,,but good luck anyway,,,,,
... (Posted 2008-09-25 17:02:25)
HAHA "No it rhymes with em" Semin. HAHA
John (Posted 2008-09-25 16:59:13)
Spot on predictions Adam! I like them a lot.
iamnewfie1 (Posted 2008-09-25 16:56:54)
Look for pittsburgh and Washington to be ahead of montreal and maybe Boston to surprise ...also Ottawa has too many guns to finish 9Th ,maybe look for them to finsh 7Th with montreal and the islanders battling for the final spot in the east...it will be a tough year for Toronto ...
Advertisement
What should the Ottawa Senators do?
"Nothing happened there. He had his glove in my mouth, but I didn't bite him."
- Ottawa's Jarkko Ruutu on allegedly biting the hand of Buffalo's Andrew Peters during play Tuesday night.
Our Partners
The Hockey News Corporation. All Rights Reserved © 2008 Transcontinental
Standards: XHTML 1.0 STRICT + CSS 2. V 1.5 17.09.2008
