NHL Northeast Prognostications

Admittedly, I am a Sens fan. I pride myself, however, on being able to take a step back and present a realistic view of how the 2008-09 season will play out. 

The Northeast division will be an interesting one this year. With the exception of the Maple Leafs and Sabres, the other teams (Boston, Montreal and Ottawa) will all have a legitimate shot at first place in the division. It seems that everyone has flaws, it will just depend on which teams' flaws are exploited the most.

Here are my predictions:

First place - Montreal Canadiens (103-108 points)

Second place - Ottawa Senators (95-100 points)

Third place - Boston Bruins (93-98 points)

Fourth place - Buffalo Sabres (87-92 points)

Fifth place - Toronto Maple Leafs (65-70 points)

Montreal Canadiens

There is no more rebuilding to do in Montreal. The time is now, and as part of a growing theme in the NHL, they need their young talent to perform as well (if not improve) on last year.

The biggest question is with Carey Price. Personally, I feel that he is the "real deal," but I have been wrong before. If the youngsters can click, this team will be scary—fast and skilled, and with the addition of "The Rock" they will all feel about two inches taller.

Ottawa Senators

If you listen to all the "experts," Ottawa's window of opportunity has closed. I completely disagree. Although I believe Montreal has surpassed them in talent, I think they will be a team that will be tough to play against EVERY game.

They may not finish first, but they will be a team that no one will want to play in the playoffs. Defence is much improved, and much tougher—but will they be able to score enough? We'll leave that up to the pizza line.

Boston Bruins

Other than what I believe is below-average goaltending, this is my sleeper pick. With Bergeron back, Savard healthy, and overall team toughness, I think the Bruins are going to surprise a lot of people this year.

Look for them to keep their eyes and ears open for an available, affordable goalie. They are crossing their fingers that Fernandez can do the job—but it WILL blow up in their faces.

Buffalo Sabres

Miller is great, this team is average. They have some skill, but they are a little short in virtually all categories. They have decent speed but lack toughness and defence.

Miller will steal a few games for them, but they will finish in fourth. Not bad enough to join the Tavares-Hedman sweepstakes, but not good enough to make the playoffs.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Where do I begin? Clearly rebuilding—and although they would never admit it, wanting to finish dead last in the league or at least very close to it.

I even get the feeling that Fletcher will try to figure out which other teams are just as bad, early in the season, so that he can trade what little talent the Leafs do have for first rounders. He probably has Atlanta and the New York Islanders on speed dial.

I don't think Antropov or Toskala, or even Kaberle will be in Leafs jerseys by the end of the season.

Well, there it is. Just my opinions, but it will be interesting to revisit this around Christmas time. That's the fun of it, you just never know. Let me know your feelings, and whether I've touched a nerve.