Ken's Western Conference Standings Projection for the 2008-09 NHL Season

As the 2008-2009 hockey season draws closer, I felt now would be a decent time to do a preseason projection for the Western Conference.

For those of you who follow my work, I will not be covering the Eastern Conference, as I only follow the east come playoff time. I will not project points, as it is useless.

Instead, I will project all 15 teams, and discuss why they will or will not make the playoffs. Enjoy, and I look forward to the feedback:

1. Detroit Red Wings

An easy first choice. Not since the lockout has a team dominated in every dimension of the game and claimed the title so dominantly. Adding Marian Hossa makes this team eve more dangerous, and they've lost no real high-value players. Detroit will lose in the Conference Finals, doing a far cry better than the Stanley Cup champions before them.

2. San Jose Sharks

The top team in the Pacific claims the crown again this year, having a potent defense and goaltender returning.

The Sharks focused on defense in the offseason. Landing Rob Blake alone is enough to improve the blue line, but with Dan Boyle and Brad Lukowich added as well, this team is dangerous.

If there is ever a year the Sharks could win it all, this is it—but with a new coach and so many changes I fear they fall short yet again at the hands of a Pacific Division rival.

3. Minnesota Wild

In the crazy Northwest Division, this is an almost impossible spot to predict. An educated hockey analyst could look at stats all day and still incorrectly project the Northwest.

Minnesota has shown it has what it takes to be top dog, and they will do it again in '08-09. Their blue line is still too weak to really move them far into the playoffs, but their forwards are dangerous and they've got a solid goaltender in net.

4. Dallas Stars

Another team with few changes. The loss of Norstrom to retirement will slightly hurt the Dallas defensive core, but with energetic youth mixed with great experienced players, this team is potentially one of the most dangerous in the NHL.

A full season of Brad Richards and Sean Avery, along with great goaltending by Marty Turco, could easily flip Dallas over San Jose. Dallas will yet again be the team to stand in the way of the Sharks' Cup. Projected Western Conference Champion, in seven games.

5. Chicago Blackhawks

I must admit, the fifth and sixth spots are where things get crazy. The Blackhawks a young, talented team on the rise in the Central Division.

This season will likely see the rivalry between the Wings and Hawks turn even bloodier with the Winter Classic, and motivate the Hawks to great things. The Blackhawks will get a lesson in playoff success from the Stars, and lose in a one-sided 4-5 matchup.

6. Anaheim Ducks

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?