The playoff picture is very messy and will only get messier in the closing weeks of the season. Martin Brodeur’s return in New Jersey has sparked the Devils’ play, while the return of Sean Avery has Rangers fans hoping for similar results. Let me know where you agree, or disagree, with the rankings.
1. New Jersey Devils (43-20-3) – Marty Brodeur’s return went much better than Tiger Woods’ did. The NHL’s best goalie is just three wins and four shutouts away from becoming the all-time leader in both categories.
2. Detroit Red Wings (44-15-8) – Despite losing to Nashville 8-0 and to Columbus 8-2, Detroit has lost just five times since the start of February.
3. San Jose Sharks (43-12-10) – If San Jose wants to do any damage in the playoffs, then Patrick Marleau is going to have to step his game up. He has just three points in his last 10 games and the Sharks are 5-4-1.
4. Boston Bruins (43-16-9) – Speaking of slumps, Marc Savard, once a potential MVP candidate, has not scored a goal in 14 games and the Bruins are 4-8-2 in that span.
5. Philadelphia Flyers (36-19-10) – There is a big debate about who will be starting in net for the Flyers in the playoffs; but Philly fans shouldn’t be worried regardless of the decision, because Danny Briere will be returning to the lineup very soon.
6. Washington Capitals (41-21-6) – Alex Ovechkin leads the NHL in goals with 47 and shots with 427; two strong reasons why he’ll be taking home his second consecutive MVP at the end of the season.
7. Calgary Flames (39-22-6)– What do you get when you add Olli Jokinen to Jarome Iginla and Michael Cammalleri? A line that has combined for 88 goals so far this season.
8. Chicago Blackhawks (37-19-9) – The Hawks are experiencing a little case of the injury bug, but all of the key components will be ready come playoff time.
9. Pittsburgh Penguins (36-26-6)– When a coach is fired it can be either a very good thing or a very bad thing. Since Michel Terrien was fired on February 15 the Pens have gone 9-1-1...you be the judge.
10. Vancouver Canucks (34-23-8) – The only way to tell the Sedin twins apart is by looking at their point totals; Daniel has the edge 64-60.
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