The Western Conference will look very similar to the Eastern Conference towards the end of the season. There are a couple of teams that fell short of the playoffs last season that might make a run at the eighth seed again. The last few games of the season will be very interesting. So with no further ado, here is what the Western Conference will look like at the season’s completion.
1. Detroit Red Wings
How does a 115-point, Stanley-Cup-champion-powerhouse get even better? Add someone who helped the team they beat in the finals get there. Marian Hossa, although getting more money than this writer thinks he’s worth, will be a great fit on this amazingly-talented Detroit team.
Dominik Hasek’s retirement will not affect the Red Wings one bit. The addition of goalie Ty Conklin was a great choice by management, as he proved this past season that he is a more-than-reliable backup.
They also have the best defense in the NHL. Detroit’s biggest concern going into the new season is whether or not the post-Cup “hangover” will affect the team’s determination—doubtful.
2. Anaheim Ducks
There are no more questions or doubts within the Ducks’ organization. Uncertainties of whether or not players will return have been dealt with and the Ducks will respond this season.
Jean-Sebastien Giguere was overlooked by many last season, but “Jiggy” put up some great numbers. He finished the season with a .922 save percentage and a 2.12 goals against average in just 58 games.
Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer are the only defensive pairing in the NHL that will give Niklas Lidstrom and Brian Rafalski a run for their money. Assuming that Pronger does not have another “Chris Simon-like” urge, then the Ducks will be atop the extremely competitive Pacific Division.
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