NHL Central Division Predictions: Blues, Blackhawks, Preds
Patrick Kane might just be the most interesting hockey player in America. These rape allegations where counsel has dropped out and a mother has lied about evidence tampering have complimented his illustrious history of drinking and beating cab drivers quite nicely. Still, can the Chicago Blackhawks continue their impressive run of deep playoff pushes? Can the St. Louis Blues repeat as divisional champions?
1. St. Louis Blues (103 pts): I really like the Blues’ system. I think they’ve got a relentless defense and strong goaltending. While they traded away an American hero this offseason, I think system play will keep them atop this division. They’re consistent, and a safe bet for the playoffs.
2. Nashville Predators (101 pts): I like that the Preds are back. I love Pekka Rinne, I love this city, and I love this team. With a healthy captain I think they make a hell of a run at the playoffs last year. Oh well – but I think they’ll have another shot at it this year.
3. Chicago Blackhawks (100 pts): Chicago is a really good hockey team. They have goaltending, offense, two-way players, and a winning culture. Can they do it again? I don’t know. I think at some point you run into cap problems, lose the guys that got you there, and fall short or expectations. Still, I think this will be a good year for the Hawks.
4. Winnipeg Jets (97 pts): Winnipeg is a really tough place to play and now that the divisions are aligned properly the Jets have looked sharp. Crazy fans, a solid team, and a lot of fun. I think they’re a playoff team again in 2016.
5. Minnesota Wild (93 pts): I don’t like the Minnesota Wild. It’s mostly because Zach Parise left my Devils to go home to the icy tundra, but I also think they lack depth and have inconsistent goaltending. I think they overachieved last year. I know – I’m a hater.
6. Dallas Stars (92 pts): This division may simply prove too tough for the Stars. Someone is going to get cannibalized by this wealth of talent, and I think it’s them. They have an exciting team, but they haven’t been able to sustain winning with the current roster. I don’t like their chances to sneak in this year.
7. Colorado Avalanche (88 pts): The Avs are speedy, but they’ve been markedly inconsistent and are young. I think they’ll be highly competitive again, but with the talent of the division they play in, I think they might finish last through little fault of their own.
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