Even as Stanley Cup champions we receive little to no respect. The Tampa Bay Lightning are still a legitimate contender even going is on the 7th or 8th seed in the East. We have 5 skaters with 30+ goals and one of, if not the, best offensive defenseman in the leauge. If our tenders and powerplay show up, watch out.
That being said, I do not want to play Ottawa. Regardless of their play in these last few weeks, they are a team to be feared. Their offensive prowess is unmatched. Their defense is top notch and, if Hasek is healthy, they will finally have the one key piece missing from playoff years past: a tried and tested playoff goaltender. If Hasek is hurt and they have to rely on Emery they might take a fall in the first or second round.
New Jersey right now is just deadly. With a win tonight and some losses from their divison rivals (Rangers and Flyers), the Devils will have home ice advantage in the first round of the playoffs, a very dangerous thing for their 6th seeded opponent.
The Sabres may be the dark horse every one is looking past. They are the only team in the East right now with a padlock on their position. No matter what happens tonight, they will be 4th place. They have had time to prepare for their potential opponent longer than any other team. With great goaltending and excellent speed, they will be a threat in the postseason.
From the East: Devils
The west is a little different. Top to bottom are 8 of the best teams in the league. Nashville started off the season on a tear and finally leveled out about midway through the season. However, they are still a powerful opponent. They can beat you with speed. Their breakout from their own zone is poetry in motion.
Detroit is first for one reason and one reason only: their division is an utter disgrace. Thanks to the new rules set in the offseason, they had the pleasure of playing the St. Louis Blues, Chicago Blackhawks and Columbus Blue Jackets a whopping 8 games a piece. That's 24 games and 48 points. They took advantage of this, but, they are still a competitor. With bob knows how many years of combined playoff experience on their roster, they will still be a threat.
Calgary is by far and away the most solid team in the conference. Not especially excelling in one area, they are the true all around team: goaltending, defense and offense.
From the west: Calgary
Final: Devils in 7
And Buffy, I know your pain. The first 10 years for the Lightning were almost unbearable. You have to look for a silver lining in the season just so you have a reason to watch next year. So congrats to Crosby. He and Ovechkin are just amazing players to watch. When the Capitals came down to TB, I actually cheered when Ovechkin scored a goal. That guy is good.
Yes, I am a hockey fan even though we can't put ice outside for longer than 30 seconds here.
Edited, Tue Apr 18 11:57:38 2006 by Mearyk