In what's arguably the toughest division in hockey, the Flames, Wild, Canucks, Avalanche, and Oilers will all jockey for position against one another.
Here's a look at what to expect from the NHL Northwest in the 2007-2008 season.
1. Calgary Flames
After earning 96 points and a playoff berth last season, the Flames look to make a deeper run into the postseason in '07-'08.
The Flames hired Mike Keenan this offseason, a coach known for getting the most out of his players. Keenan boasts an impressive 569-457-140 record with 12 different NHL franchises.
After signing a five-year contract extension, team captain Jarome Iginla will be the go-to guy for a Calgary offense that got off to a slow start last year. Around him is a strong supporting cast of Alex Tanguay, Matthew Lombardi, Kristian Huselius, and Daymond Langkow.
If the Flames are to have a big year, they'll need their offensive stars to get off to a quick start.
On the blue line, the Flames were hit with the loss of Hamrlik, Stuart, and Zyuzin. Replacing them with Aucoin and Sarich, Calgary will look to establish a physical brand of play.
The partnership of Dion Phaneuf and Robyn Regehr should help.
Blessed with size and speed, Phaneuf will be counted to log the lion’s share of minutes. Regehr is a solid defensemen who can be used in all types of situations.
Between the pipes is former Vezina Trophy winner Miikka Kiprusoff, who will be looking to build on his 40 wins and seven shutouts a season ago.
As long as Kiprusoff can stay healthy, the Flames will have a chance to win each and every night.
Prediction
It will be essential for Calgary to do well against their division foes if they're to battle for a high seed in April. “Iron Mike” will deliver the winning tactics that former head coach Jim Playfair never could.
Expect a first place finish in a very tough division.
2. Minnesota Wild
Minnesota will be look to avoid another quick playoff exit after being swept by the Cup-winning Anaheim Ducks last season.
The Wild will rely on solid defense and goaltending—and a frustrating style of play that no opponent wants to face.
Slovakian superstar Marian Gaborik needs to stay healthy if the Wild are to take their game to the next level. Gaborik has only averaged 59 games per season over a three-year span.
When healthy, the duo of Gaborik and veteran forward Pavol Demitra gives the Wild plenty of offensive punch. Brian Rolston will also be counted on to produce goals after tallying 31 last year.
The Wild defense thrived under head coach Jacques Lemaire. Rising stars Nick Schultz and Brent Burns lead a shutdown unit, and Kim Johnsson will be looking for a better year after posting just 22 points in 76 games.
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