Pacific Division 2013-14 NHL Preview and Predictions
1. Vancouver Canucks: New coach could signal a new era, but the departure of Cory Schneider should leave this goaltending unit a bit weaker than it’s been over the last few years. Even if Luongo isn’t the guy, however, there’s too much depth in Vancouver. The twins are playing for a contract, the defensive unit is great as always, and they have two legitimate scoring lines. I think that’s enough for one of the most consistent franchises in hockey to continue being consistent.
2. Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks lost Bobby Ryan and, though they didn’t seem to really care much about keeping him, I think that’s a sizable loss to very good offensive unit. I don’t see the depth they’ve had in the past, and I have questions about the consistency of their goaltending. They’ve got a solid team and it should be another really strong season for Anaheim, but I’m not ready to pencil them into the top of this new division.
3. LA Kings: Jonathan Quick. You don’t really need to say much more about this team. They have a little bit of scoring, some very good defense, and the best goaltender of the western conference. That’s enough for a playoff spot, and maybe more.
4. San Jose Sharks: They’re a hard bunch to read and they’re getting older, but they still have the core that got them to the playoffs so many years. The division should be pretty competitive, but I think the Sharks can compete with the best the West has to offer.
5. Phoenix Coyotes: This is a small-market team that didn’t put the money into the roster to compete with the big boys. They run a good system and have a great goaltender, but where will the scoring come from? This is clearly another tier in Phoenix.
6. Edmonton Oilers: They have a solid, young, exciting offense and the pieces may start falling into place for this team, but without goaltending or experience, I don’t see the Oilers competing for a playoff spot this year. They’ll be annoying to bet against, though, as this fast and loose squad of youngsters is gaining experience and learning to play in the NHL.
7. Calgary Flames: It’s time for a total rebuild in Calgary, only ownership noticed a few years too late. Iginla is gone, netminding is shabby, and this is not a winning team.
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