1. Detroit Red Wings
Since the start of this season, the Wings have shown that they are a dominant team. They provide much offense in Zetterberg, Datsyuk, and Holmstrom. Detroit even has production from the quiet players like Cleary and Flippula. The defense can't get much stronger. Detroit also has the best one-two punch in goaltending in the league with Hasek and Osgood. Look for the Wings to make it far.
Player to Watch: Pavel Datsyuk
2. San Jose Sharks
The Sharks have had some struggles over the course of the year; especially with Marleau and Cheechoo not producing. San Jose still comes out every game and plays it knowing they need the W. They’ve shown how powerful of a squad they can really be on the road going 16-4-3 thus far in away games.
Player to Watch: Joe Thornton
3. Anaheim Ducks
Anaheim might have gotten off to the slowest start of these top contenders, but they have once again found their way to the top. With youngsters like Getzlaf, Kunitz, and Perry and veterans such as Pronger, Niedermayer, Weight, Bertuzzi, and Schneider, the Ducks will be a fearsome team come playoff time.
Player to Watch: Ryan Getzlaf
4. Minnesota Wild
The Wild, unlike the Ducks, got out to the best start in hockey going 7-0-1 until losing to the Calgary Flames 20 days into the season. Minnesota has been a team that falls to the bottom of their division then come back up to the top. The Wild, arguably in the best division in hockey, needs to keep up with the pace of their division rivals Vancouver and Colorado if they want to remain in the hunt. The Wild are one of the teams to beat at home attaining a 15-7 record in the Xcel Energy Center.
Player to Watch: Marian Gaborik
5. Columbus Blue Jackets
After several years of missing the playoffs since they joined the league, the Blue Jackets are headed in the right direction this year. Columbus is becoming a hockey city and recognizing their Jackets as a playoff team. Without many big named players, the Blue Jackets still find a way to get the job done, especially at home. Columbus has hung around the playoff picture all year, and trust me, they aren’t done yet. Expect to see the Blue Jackets fighting for 5-7 spot in the playoffs.
Player to Watch: Rick Nash
6. St. Louis Blues
The Blues have completely turned their team around from last year with solid additions. Brad Boyes, Paul Kariya, and their teammates are getting the jobs done and it shows in the standings. Other than the Red Wings, the Blues are a team to beat in the Central division. St. Louis have proved themselves this year that they are capable of a respectful season and are hopefully they’ll end up in the playoffs.
Player to Watch: Brad Boyes
7. Vancouver Canucks
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