Here is the other half of my report card in regards to the Western Conference.

My grades are based on overall performance and whether the team has lived up to, exceeded, or failed to meet preseason expectations.

Anaheim Ducks:

This just might be the toughest team to grade so far in the entire NHL. Sure, they are sitting fifth in the conference, but who thinks they should be higher?

It's hard to say, considering how well the Sharks are playing. Fourth or fifth is as high as the Ducks are going to finish. Ryan Getzlaf is having a stellar season, and the emergence of Bobby Ryan is just what the Ducks thought he would do.

The special teams are not great, but the goaltending is solid as usual in Anaheim. They are above .500 on the road so that helps their grade to this point.

Grade: B

Calgary Flames:

This hockey team knows how to win and win mean. Everyone in the organization, from the G.M. to the coach, to the players always seem to have a chip on their shoulders and enjoy beating up on other teams.

Finally, the Flames have found secondary scoring in the form of Mike Cammelleri. Jarome Iginla is one of, if not, the best leaders in the NHL, and everyone around him is better with him on the team. Kipper is solid between the pipes, and the defense is rock solid.

In my mind, this team should be mentioned in the same breath as San Jose and Detroit, and I don't think any team can defeat them in a seven-game playoff series.

Grade: A

Chicago Blackhawks:

Who expected this team to excel with the way they have been doing? One of the best home teams in the entire league, the 'Hawks look very similar to the Penguins of 2007-08—middle of the pack in special teams and nobody in the top 30 scoring in the NHL.

This team wins as a team and loses as a team. They have proved that with good coaching, anything is possible.

I can't see the Hawks do too much damage in the playoffs, but just making it to the second season is a great improvement for this club. The 'Hawks should be a top team in the West for many years to come.

Grade: A

Colorado Avalanche:

The Avs didn't have high expectations for this season, but even with that said, they still have had a season to forget.

With two goalies who are nothing more than backups and an aging captain who is often injured, the Avalanche have had to rely on their young stars to carry the team. They have also failed at this however.

With Ryan Smyth at 40th overall in points, that is the highest ranking player they have.

Less than stellar special teams, I'm not surprised that this team is 14th in the conference.

Grade: D

Columbus Blue Jackets:

Last on the power play and middle of the pack on the penalty kill, this team should be better.

Great goaltending in the form of super rookie Steve Mason has kept this team in the running for the final playoff spot in the West.

Rick Nash has lived up to the pressure of being a star player, but as long as they continue to allow more goals than they score, it will be yet another long summer for the Jackets.

Grade: C-

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