I think Tampa did suffer some major changes, and Boston does have an amazing system. Boston is showing a little bit of strain in the Swayman situation and I think it’s a toss up between the two on who slips. I could easily be wrong and Boston grabs a top 3 spot. Then you swap in TB battling for a wild card and the overall pic doesn’t change drastically in terms of what Detroit has to accomplish. Ottawa now has the commitment for the new arena and ownership is pressing hard to build a new culture. It’s a fascinating division to step back but in terms of following Detroit a very difficult climb. Progress within will have to be met with regress in the periphery (opinion).
- Jeremy Laura
I agree that the top 3 spot in the division doesn't matter because the Wings basically have no shot at it although i think the top 3 stay that way with Tampa fighting for a WC spot.
The Metro division i see one change with Devils taking the Islanders spot and them fighting with Tampa, Detroit, Ottawa, Washington, Pittsburgh and Buffalo for the two WC spots. Feels like whichever team doesn't suffer key injuries and has players that perform up to standards or better will get those two spots.