As I continue my early predictions the hardest part is always trying to figure out what teams that missed the playoffs last year, will make it this year. And of course, in order for one of those teams to have a possibility of making the playoffs, someone from last year has to miss.
In general, we see anywhere from 1-3 new teams in each year….However, this year it feels like there are at least 6 teams who missed out last year which could see the post season…
#1. The Islanders: They were the biggest surprise to NOT make it in 2021-22, but got off to a horrific start after a long road trip to open the season was followed by injuries and a terrible start in the new building…However, the Isles were the best team in Metro over the last three months of the season. Also, they may have the best goalie tandem in the NHL. Add the excitement of a new coach and it is hard to imagine them NOT making the playoffs…
#2. The Canucks: Vancouver, like the Islanders, were VERY good at the end of last season, and their talent level is simply way too high in a relatively weak (but getting stronger) division. With Bruce Boudreau back and if they can stay healthy (they missed over 550 man games last season) the Canucks are almost a guarantee I believe.
#3. The Senators: I love what Ottawa has done, and the excitement level is at an all-time high. It might be a year too soon for them, but their time is coming quickly. I believe the Bruins are big time gearing up for a one-year run here, but their biggest obstacle could be the Sens young legs…
#4. Vegas: The Knights just missed last year, despite being a total train wreck for a large part of the season. The High End talent is there, and honestly i am a VERY big fan of Logan Thompson in goal, With Lehner not playing this year it could fall to Thompson.. Although it is noteworthy that Thompson is the 4th highest paid keeper on this team. I am not sure they have the depth to hang.
#5. Columbus: The Jackets, in ANY other division, would be a serous threat to make the post season..They have a lot more going for them than they have ever had before. And the work ethics is ALWAYS there…If Laine is what Laine can be they are right there. Being fed by Gaudreau will give him ZERO excuses to. At his best, he is right there with Ovechkin and Matthews when it comes to scoring raw talent.
#6. Winnipeg: The Jets are definitely an enigma. Some are going to pick them to make a huge return to the post season, while others could see them heading down the direction of Philly. Our of balance and far short. They have the talent right now to make them scary enough to be included in this list…
Who do you think makes it, and who are they pushing out?
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