NHL Western Conference: Midseason Rankings

Once again the Canucks are inching their way into the playoffs this year. Like I’ve said before, the Northwest division is one of the toughest one to compete in and Vancouver have found themselves in all over the standings so far this season. If the Canucks want to continue their success they must have to learn to be more consistent. In their last 10 games, the Canucks put up a 5-5-0 record, not good if enough if they want to make the playoffs.

Player to Watch: Daniel Sedin

8. Nashville Predators - Nashville is another team that got off to a slow start. But they have picked it up lately going 6-2-2 in their last 10 games. Despite having an average of 14,000 fans per game, the Preds still shine at home. Nashville fans, get up and support your team, they are in the hunt.

Player to Watch: J.P. Dumont

9. Dallas Stars

The Stars have fallen in their division in the past few weeks as a result of losing seven of their last nine. Dallas is a team that can easily, with a boost from their offense, be a threat to the top contending teams. If Dallas can once again find their strengths and eliminate their weakness they will be among the top come playoff time.

Player to Watch: Brendan Morrow

10. Phoenix Coyotes

The Coyotes are easily the biggest surprise of the year so far. They showed nothing at all last year and have fought their way back in the playoff hunt this season. In their last 10 games, they post a 7-3-0 record. If they keep up this solid work they can find themselves fighting for the 7th or 8th spot in April. Phoenix have found a goaltender in Ilya Bryzgalov but they need to keep up the offensive streak. The Coyotes also found major potential in youngsters such as Peter Mueller and Matrin Hanzal.

Player to Watch: Shane Doan

11. Colorado Avalanche - The Avalanche have been in a major slump lately which is why they are ranked among the bottom in the Western Coference. We all know what the Avalanche can do, but without Joe Sakic and Ryan Smyth can they succeed? The answer is yes. Colorado has two goalies that can get the job done and an offense with scoring from Paul Stastny, Marek Svatos, and Wojtek Wolski. Don’t let the young ones get to you, because the Av's have plenty of other that can lead them to yet another successful season.

Player to Watch: Paul Stastny

12. Calgary Flames

The Flames are also among the teams with a lot of potential, but can’t finish. Calgary has so much offensive power, strong defense, and goaltending that we might still find them sitting atop the Northwest division at the end of the season. All they need to do is keep fighting and find their way back in it.

Player to Watch: Jarome Iginla

13. Edmonton Oilers

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