Untitled Document

By: Adam Forman

The Power Rankings reflect team’s position in the standings as well as recent moves, developments, and how well they’ve played since the last power rankings (approximately). They are just for fun and have no value in the league, and they are just the honest opinion of myself, Adam Forman (Carolina GM). Enjoy!

April 27th (EHM Date September 30th)

This Edition	Last Edition	Team	Description
1	N/A	Detroit Red Wings	The two time champs have earned the top spot. This season will get even tougher for Detroit who now has 3 tough division rivals, but arguably the best defensive team is looking to become the first 3-time champs regardless of who stands in their way.
2	N/A	Montreal Canadians	Frank finally got his opportunity for a Cup after successfully beating Ottawa and eventually capturing the East championship. But the Habs were no match for the Wings. Montreal appears to be the frontrunner in the East again, it’s a matter of if his Habs can come out on top (again) in the playoffs and play better in the finals.
3	N/A	St.Louis Blues	New GM, same team. The Blues still have their crazy defensive core in tact, and with the same roster there is no reason why this team won’t finish top 5. But they will be stuck in a horrible 1^st round matchup again unless they can come out on top of the Central Division.
4	N/A	Nashville Predators	After their first ever playoff appearance, the Preds will come back stronger and deeper than ever. We all know that this team will be a top contender one day, but how about this year? It is a strong possibility, they just have to come out of the Central Division alive. The goal in the Central is to finish 1^st or 4^th, but never 2^nd or 3^rd.
5	N/A	Chicago Blackhawks	Predicting the Blackhawks success is difficult. They won the President’s Trophy, only to get swept in round 1 by the 8^th seed. Then they lost their best defenseman to retirement and best defensive forward to UFA. Worst yet, Turco is retiring. This team still has the best offense in the league, but their defense may not allow them to keep up with Detroit, St.Louis, and maybe even Nashville. But hey, finishing 4^th isn’t such a bad thing nowadays.
6	N/A	Los Angeles Kings	The Kings will probably win their division and the 2^nd seed unless San Jose has a big comeback season. But come playoff time, will they be a match for anyone in the Central division? Last year they took down the Avs and Sharks handily, but were no match for the Wings. This year they come back with a whole new lineup including an improved offense, but a much worse defense.
7	N/A	Philadelphia Flyers	The Flyers can’t catch a break. Two seasons ago they seemingly had the Atlantic Division locked up, only to lose it to the Rangers in the final game of the season and lose in round 2. Last year they easily won the Atlantic, but were upset by the Hurricanes, once again preventing them from a shot at the finals. The Flyers have one of the best offenses in the league, so maybe this will be their year. They will lose some players to retirement, but some solid prospects aren’t far from being developed.
8	N/A	Edmonton Oilers	The Oilers lost to the Preds in round 1 last year. They should win the Northeast Division again, but the 6^th seed will only get better and better, and the team is losing some key players to retirement. Basically it will all come down to if they can win that 1^st round matchup, and once they get that out of the way maybe they can make a run.
9	N/A	Ottawa Senators	Is it time to panic in Ottawa? Probably not, but this team did not seem like the best team in PTHL history last year. They were outplayed by the Canadians all year, and more importantly in the playoffs, and had their worst playoff finish probably since they rebuilt many years ago. They still have their core in tact and the Ovechkin/Kasparkov duo will always keep them in contention, but can they retake the East?
10	N/A	Carolina Hurricanes	Carolina had a very up and down season, but got good fast down the stretch. They went from well out of the playoffs into 3^rd place, and then won 2 playoff series and nearly upset the Habs in the conference finals, losing in game 7 OT. The addition of 1^st OA pick Dvorak will just further boost the team’s defense. The Canes accomplished a lot in the playoffs, but will they be up to Phili’s level in the regular season? The teams meet in the season opener.
11	N/A	Toronto Maple Leafs	The Leafs came out very strong and looked like they were at Ottawa’s level for a large portion of the season. But they faded down the stretch, and followed that up by getting swept by the Sens (proof why EHM does not reflect real life). Will they improve on last year? They will have some competition for the 4^th/5^th playoff spot with NYI getting better and NYR making some big improvements over the offseason.
12	N/A	New York Islanders	Here’s your surprise team of the year. Just look at the young core this team is putting together and you will see why. The Isles will almost forsurely make the playoffs this year after missing them by 1 point last year. But how good will they be? They may go as far as to challenge Philadelphia for the division lead.
13	N/A	San Jose Sharks	Never know what to expect of the Sharks anymore. They finish as low as 8^th in the West only to beat #1 Chicago. They still have a fairly solid defensive core, but clearly lack secondary offense. I can’t see them falling out of the playoffs, and maybe they’ll even challenge for the division again, but several teams would like to move into the West playoffs, so the Sharks need to be careful.
14	N/A	New York Rangers	Some nice defensive additions will give the Rangers a boost this year, but it’s hard to say if they can accomplish what they did 2 years ago. The Flyers seem to still have a significant edge, and the Isles are getting good too. Could be a very good, or just plain average for the Rangers,
15	N/A	Colorado Avalanche	This team has to be very, very careful. They dealt away their 2 best defensemen and one of their better forwards, and they were on the playoff edge before that. If any team will slip out of the West playoffs, it will probably be the Avs. They still have a good enough team to grab the 7^th or 8^th spot, but watch out for Minnesota.
16	N/A	Minnesota Wild	An opportunity may be arising, and the Wild have to take advantage. They are getting better, and the Avs are creating an opening. It’s been a long, long time, but the Wild may see a shot at a playoff spot this year.
17	N/A	Washington Capitals	The Caps will get their injured players back this year, which makes the season seem more optimistic. However, it’s really the opposite. The Isles will move in to the playoffs, and the Rangers have improved too. The Panthers will be hot on the Caps tail all year, and although the Sabres figure to drop out with no GM, don’t count them out either. The Caps have some good depth, but too many low defense forwards. They will be in a dog-fight to secure a playoff spot just like last year.
18	N/A	Florida Panthers	Tom is coming very close to ending the curse that Tim and Uncabob brought to this team. It’s been some 7 seasons since they’ve made the playoffs, but the Panthers finally have a team that has a good shot.
19	N/A	Buffalo Sabres	The Sabres made the playoffs for a 2^nd straight season, but will be without a GM this year. The East has more contenders this year, and as a result the Sabres could find themselves out of the playoffs again.
20	N/A	Calgary Flames	Tim is now 0 for 3, somehow he managed to ruin one of the league’s top valued franchises. The team is dangerously close to the cap because of their 4 franchise players, and they don’t even have a full farm yet. They have 2 farmers playing on their pro just to complete their roster. My prediction: the first team to be penalized for going over the cap. The only option for this team is to trade one of the big 4, and because of his age Iggy is the best option. Even with all 4, their depth is decreasing and their defense is getting worse. It’s looking like no playoffs again, and maybe not for a while.
21	N/A	Phoenix Coyotes	The Coyotes will hope to contend for a playoff spot yet again. They are certainly not a favourite to make the playoffs, so they have some work to do.
22	N/A	Dallas Stars	The Stars need to speed up the rebuild! Even though they are acquiring some very good young players, several other teams are building contenders in half the time, and the West is becoming more difficult every year. So the question is how many more seasons until the Stars make the playoffs? This year is a possibility but not looking too likely.
23	N/A	Columbus Blue Jackets	Very quietly and under the radar, the Blue Jackets are building a solid young core. They will have an improved record this year, and may be a playoff contender in the near future.
24	N/A	Tampa Bay Lightning	Trading away youngsters for veterans last year was a big mistake. The Lightning are in a very bad situation now, and will have to rebuild all over again which could take years.
25	N/A	New Jersey Devils	Their getting better, but very slowly. The Devils need to start taking some action to improve their future.
26	N/A	Pittsburgh Penguins	Jeremy is cleaning up the ruins of Uncabob productively. The team now has 8 1sts in the next 2 years. The rebuild will take a few years though.
27	N/A	Anaheim Ducks	A future goalie and some more prospects were added in the draft. Anaheim is moving in the right direction, but they too are a few years away.
28	N/A	Atlanta Thrashers	Another team that made the big mistake of trading away their future for veterans. Atlanta desperately needs to rebuild, and their franchise value spiked last year by trading away their 1^st. Their once young core are approaching their 30’s, and they will simply not be a playoff team for a long time.
29	N/A	Boston Bruins	The Bruins chose the right time to rebuild as they were not going to win anything with their old roster. It will take some time but it is for the best.
30	N/A	Vancouver Canucks	This team was #1 in the rankings when the Power Rankings first begun many years ago. How times have changed. The long road of rebuilding has begun.

Biggest Climb: N/A

Biggest Fall: N/A

February 24th (EHM Date March 26th)

(Previous Ranking in Brackets)

1. Chicago Blackhawks (1)

7 games left, 1 game in hand, and 1 point ahead. The GMless Hawks enter the crucial finish with a small lead over Detroit. If there's any doubt about how important the Presodent's Trophy is this year, the loser faces St.Louis 1st round. Yes that's right, a top 4 team will be eliminated 1st round.

2. Detroit Red Wings (2)

The Cup Champions are looking at a deadly 1st round match if they can't pass the Hawks. They will probably need to win out the last 6 games. It gets worse: St.Louis has a game in hand and could still pass the Wings for home ice advantage. Regardless of where Detroit finishes, they will probably need to beat Chicago at one point or another to get to the finals, so if they are the best, they will prove it in the playoffs (again).

3. St.Louis Blues (4)

We all knew it was coming, and with a win in their next game the Blues will break the tie between them and Montreal and move into 3rd place. Yeah that's right, the top 3 teams in the league are in the same division. But the Blues are looking for more than top 3. They are just 3 points back of the Hawks and 2 back of Detroit with a game in hand on Detroit. A 3rd team is looking for that President's Trophy and the key 1st seed in the West.

4. Montreal Canadians (3)

Ottawa us making a late push but the Habs should hold on to win the East. They have an outside shot at the President's Trophy, but it's not looking so good with 3 teams now ahead of them. So Montreal has finally dethroned the Sens in the regular season... how about the playoffs?

5. Los Angeles Kings (6)

The good thing about being a division leader in the West is that you won't have to face one of the big three, possibly until the conference finals. LA holds a slim lead over Edmonton for 2nd, but even if they fall to 3rd they have the division locked up. However Nashville, San Jose, and Colorado aren't easy opponents. Except to see at least one upset in the West this year.

6. Edmonton Oilers (4)

Look out, here come the Avs. Edmonton's once large lead is down to 3 points and the Avs have a game in hand. Regardless of who wins the division, it appears the Oilers vs Avs could be a 1st round matchup. But home ice will be a factor.

7. Philadelphia Flyers (7)

The Flyers have simply dominated the Atlantic Division this year. They are looking to win it by 30 points with a strong finish. Basically these last 6 games are irrelevant. They have clinched 2nd as Carolin has no chance of catching them, but are a bit too far behind Montreal to catch them. However a potential 1st round matchup has to provide some worries for the Flyers. The Rangers are currently in 7th and they always seem to pull off an upset in the 1st round.

8. Ottawa Senators (9)

They gave it all they had but a late run by the Senators will not be enough to continue their streak. The Sens will finish 4th this year and will have a tough 1st round matchup vs the Leafs. Even if they survive, they will be the underdogs from that point on.

9. Colorado Avalanche (11)

The league's hottest team is making a run for the division, and they have a shot. With a game in hand they need to make up a 3 point deficit.

10. San Jose Sharks (8)

They just clinched a playoff spot but the Sharks have nothing to celebrate about. They are below .500 in their last 10 and if they don't finish strong they will fall below Nashville. Finishing 7th is very important cause no one wants to face the Hawks (or Wings or Blues).

11. Nashville Predators (12)

There it is! The last team to ever make the playoffs in PTHL History has officially clinched a playoff spot for the 1st time. And what better way then to go 8-1-1 in their past 10 games. However it is not time to celebrate yet. They are neck and neck with the Sharks for 7th place, and if they want a betetr chance at a 1st round upset, not playing the Central Divison winner is the key.

12. Toronto Maple Leafs (10)

This will still go down as the Leafs best season since their rebuild, but they were unable to keep up with the Sens for 4th. They will have to win without home ice advantage, but the battle of Ontario is back.

13. Carolina Hurricanes (16)

Not many teams could've predicted that this Hurricane was coming, but the Canes have jumped into the playoffs and opened up a big lead on the division. If they can hold on, the Canes will not only make the playoffs for the first time in 3 years, they will win the division for the first time in 6 years. With younger players improving they are getting better every sim, but they are still a step below the top 4 in the East.

14. Buffalo Sabres (14)

Buffalo has also opened up a big lead of their own. They now have a 5 point lead over Washington and NYR for 6th place. And we all know there is a huge difference between 6th and 7th as it means Carolina instead of Philadelphia in the 1st round. Barring a collapse, we'll be seeing the same matchup that we saw in the NHL East Finals last year.

15. New York Rangers (17)

This is a position the Rangers are used to by now. 7th in the East. If they can hold on, they will be looking to complete another huge 1st round upset. Last time it was over Pittsburgh, now they are looking to take down Phili. But they have to make the playoffs first. Will we see Dan's trademark "If the Rangers don't make the playoffs, I will resign" this year?

16. Washington Capitals (20)

The Caps are about to enter into a crutial stretch. They have 2 games vs Carolina which could make or break them. If they can win the games, they will still have a shot at the division. If they lose the games, they might drop out of the playoffs.

17. Calgary Flames (13)

It's hard to believe but the Flames will miss the playoffs for the first time since the inagural PTHL season. And worst of all, they have major cap issues with 4 guys over 9 mill and locked up for minimum 2 seasons. Tim's gotta do something, and it may have to involve the departure of one of their top players.

18. Minnesota Wild (18)

They gave it a run but the Wild have been eliminated from playoff contention. Guess they'll have to give it a run next year.

19. New York Islanders (21)

The Isles have some work to do but if they can sneak into the playoffs they will be a prime candinate for an upset. The Isles team keeps getting better and are a likely playoff team next year, but they have 3 points to make up this year.

20. Tampa Bay Lightning (23)

The Lightning are still battling hard for a playoff spot. They are 1 point out, but have played an extra game. They desperately need some wins in the final 6 games to sneak in.

21. Phoenix Coyotes (19)

Maybe next year Chad.

22. Florida Panthers (25)

Don't take your eye off the Panthers. They are just 4 points out of the playoffs and are making a run with a 7-3 record recently. It'll take a lot of wins down the stretch but the Panthers aren't going away.

23. Atlanta Thrashers (15)

Oh wow, the Thrashers sank and they sank fast. Worst of all they traded some of their future on the thought that their team was a contender this year. Michael Handzus hasn't done much to help since being acquired. It's an oustise chance but the Thrashers have not been eliminated yet.

24. Boston Bruins (24)

It's safe to say that the Bruins are pretty much done. They have an outside chance but with only 2 wins in their past 10 it's doubtful that they will pass 5 teams and make up 7 points with only 7 games left.

25. Dallas Starts (22)

Looking forward to next season now. The rebuild never seems to end.

26. New Jersey Devils (27)

Mathematically it's possible but the Devils are out of the playoffs. A bigger concern is that they could rise above the bottom 5 and lose out on a shot at the #1 OA pick. An even bigger concern is that they have no GM anymore.

27. Anaheim Ducks (26)

No wins in their past 10 is probably best for this team who needs a top pick in the draft.

28. Columbus Blue Jackets (29)

Another top 3 pick is likely coming to Columbus. Not a good draft but there are at least 3 good players available.

29. Vancouver Canucks (29)

0-10 in the past 10, that summarizes the Canucks season. They really need this top 2 pick.

30. Pittsburgh Penguins (30)

Hey, at least they got to 10 wins before they end of the season.

Biggest Climbs: Washington (+4), Carolina (+3), Tampa Bay (+3), Florida (+3)

Biggest Falls: Atlanta (-8), Calgary (-4), Dallas (-3)

February 9th ( EHM Date February 27th)

(Previous Ranking in Brackets)

1. Chicago Blackhawks (1)

I can understand former GM Aaron's decision to move to the East, but maybe it would've made more sense to finish this season off as Chicago appears to be in much better position to win. Now the best team in the league has no GM, for now.

2. Detroit Red Wings (2)

Detroit is losing ground on Chicago (now 3 points back), so these last 18 games are crutial. Finishing 4th would be very bad as a 1st round matchup with St.Louis is not what the Wings would like. Worst of all, St.Louis is looking for home ice (2 points back and a game in hand).

3. Montreal Canadians (3)

Montreal is now officially running away with the East. Frank has finally conquered the Sens and has massive 13 point lead over the division and 9 points for the conference. In fact the Habs are only 3 back of the Blackhawks. This will be the first time, ever, that the Sens will not win the division.

4. St.Louis Blues (5)

Here they come. The Blues are back in the race for the West, and have a GM now too. If they finish strong we could see the 1 2 3 finish from Central Division teams.

5. Edmonton Oilers (6)

2nd place in the West, something Edmonton has not seen in a long time (if at all?). The Oilers don't have to deal with the Flames anymore, and their only competition is Colorado who is 6 points back. The Northwest appears to be heading to Edmonton barring a stretch collapse.

6. Los Angeles Kings (4)

Hopes for a top finish have faded but the Kings are still tied for 2nd seed (not points) in the West. But until they get a GM, I don't like their playoff chances. San Jose isn't far back, LA has a 4 point lead to work with.

7. Philadelphia Flyers (8)

The Rangers won't be making a last minute comeback for the division this season. Philadelphia has basically clinched 2nd place in the East and Ottawa does not stand in their way of the Stanley Cup. Instead, Montreal is the team to beat. Is Phili up to the challenge?

8. San Jose Sharks (7)

San Jose is still not up to the level of the top teams in the West like previous seasons and is looking at their worst finish in 4 or 5 seasons (6th or 7th). They still have a shot at the division and could finish as high as 2nd with a very good finish. Considering they will not face one of the Central Division elite 3, the Sharks have a decent shot at winning a few playoff series'.

9. Ottawa Senators (9)

The Sens have a new GM but the gao between them and Montreal has become too big to make up. Time to focus on getting home ice vs the Leafs.

10. Toronto Maple Leafs (10)

The Leafs are in a tight battle for 4th place. This has definately been their best season since Dave became GM, we'll see how far the Leafs can go in the playoffs.

11. Colorado Avalanche (11)

The Avs are still looking to move ahead of San Jose and catch up to Edmonton. They will have to play very well to have a shot.

12. Nashville Predators (12)

The race for the playoffs is on. Nashville is still looking to make the playoffs for the 1st time ever. Their past 10 record is the same as Calgary, both under .500. They have a 3 point lead, 2 more games played. It will go down to the wire.

13. Calgary Flames (13)

Timhas to pick up the pace. The Flames have still yet tp get 70 points and are 3 back of Nashville for 8th. They have 2 games in hand, and they need to get minimum 2-3 points from those games.

14. Buffalo Sabres (15)

If Buffalo can stay ahead of just one of Carolina or Atlanta, they will finish 6th in the East and get a very winnable 1st round matchup. Last year was the first ever playoff appearance for this team, this year they are eyeing a series win.

15. Atlanta Thrashers (14)

The Thrashers once secure division lead is gone. A 2-7-1 recent record has cut the lead down to 2 points with an extra game played. The Thrashers can guaruntee a good 1st round matchup if they finish 3rd, but if they don't they will have to hope their record is good enough for 6th cause no one wants to face Phili.

16. Carolina Hurricanes (20)

Three key wins, two over Atlanta and one vs Washington, have brought the Canes to within 2 points of the division lead with a game in hand. Barring a collapse in the last 20 games, Carolina could be making their first playoff appearance in 3 seasons, and it could be on home ice too. The return of Williams and the call ups of Lindvist and Dansereau have made a big difference.

17. New York Rangers (16)

The Rangers are battling for their playoff lives with 4 teams within 3 points. The good news is that the Rangers have game(s) in hand on all of them.

18. Minnesota Wild (21)

Arguably the hottest team in the league right now, the Wild have moved above .500 with only 1 loss in their past 10. But is it too little too late? They are 8 points back of 8th place, but have 3 games in hand. If they play as well as they have recently in the final 20 games, Minny could challenge Nashville and Calgary.

19. Phoenix Coyotes (18)

Only 2 wins in their past 10. Chad's playoff hopes are fading fast. Now even top rival Steve has passed him. At least he's still ahead of Tom though.

20. Washington Capitals (17)

Another team with only 2 wins in the past 10. Washington has now dropped out of the playoffs. Their chances are still good to make the playoffs being only 1 back of the Rangers, but their bid to repeat as division champs is fading.

21. New York Islanders (24)

Youngsters keep getting better. The Isles current lineup is looking strong, so we'll have to see if they can finish strong enough to beat out 4 other teams to get into the playoffs.

22. Dallas Stars (22)

Maybe next year is the year they will make the playoffs.

23. Tampa Bay Lightning (23)

Tampa Bay made a run to get back into the playoff race. They still have a lot of work to do with 3 other playoff bubble teams looking to move in.

24. Boston Bruins (19)

The Bruins keep fading. They are still in the race for the playoffs but have a a lot of other teams in the race with them.

25. Florida Panthers (25)

The Panthers are giving it their all and have played over .500 hockey recently, but next year may have to be the year. They are 5 points back of 8th with 4 teams ahead of them not in the playoffs.

26. Anaheim Ducks (27)

Wow 6-2-2 in their past 10, finally the Ducks have something to cheer about. Unfortunately this drops them out of the top 5 in the draft.

27. New Jersey Devils (26)

Believe it or not the Devils are in the playoff race too, but it's unlikely they contend. 6 points back and in 14th place. A stretch run may not be enough, and it would just drop them lower in the draft.

28. Vancouver Canucks (29)

Canucks are looking at a top 3 pick next year, and a good lottery chance.

29. Columbus Blue Jackets (29)

The Jackets are also looking at a top 3 pick. They have a solid offense but appear to need defense, and this is the draft to get defense.

30. Pittsburgh Penguins (30)

Not the best draft to be #1 as there are virtually no goalies and forward, but there are still 1 or 2 very good defensemen and about 5 or 6 more core d-men available. And Pittsburgh desperately needs defense. With 20 games left, the Penguins are still looking to get to 10 wins and 100 goals.

Biggest Climbs: Carolina (+4), Minnesota (+3), New York Islanders (+3)

Biggest Falls: Boston (-5), Wasington (-3), Los Angeles (-2)

January 30th ( EHM Date February 6th)

(Previous Ranking in Brackets)

1. Chicago Blackhawks (7)

Former Sabres GM Aaron took over a solid team, but credit must be given for putting them over the top. The Blackhawks have the most goals in the league, by far, and are looking unstoppable with only 1 loss in their past 10. My only confusion is why Aaron wants to change teams when his is the best?

2. Detroit Red Wings (1)

The defending Cup champions are tied for 1st, but have played a few extra games. Detroit does not have the offensive skill that Chicaco is showing, but they are right up there with the best defensive teams in the league.

3. Montreal Canadians (15)

Ottawa is struggling, for once they may not win the East. At the beginning of the season, I questioned which of Montreal, Phili, and NYR would take down Ottawa. Now we know. It appears Frank could finally go to the finals with a healthy lead atop the East and the league's fewest goals against.

4. Los Angeles Kings (3)

LA remains in the top 5 and are playing steady hockey despite being without a GM.

5. St.Louis Blues (2)

After a midseason dropoff, the Blues are once again the hottest team in the league. A perfect 10-0 in their past 10, and what's scarier is that they have a GM now. Come to think of it, maybe it's not cause they seem to do better minus a GM. Chicago, Detroit, and St.Louis could end up finishing 1 2 3 in the league, which would be rediculous considering the two division losers could play in round 1 and the winner of that series would face the division winner in round 2. Maybe we should switch to the NBA system where division winners are only guarunteed top 4 spots, not top 3.

6. Edmonton Oilers (9)

The Oilers are a bit off the pace in terms of the top of the West, but they are have a solid lead atop the Northwest Divison and could be looking as a division championship. Lead by the the early MVP favourite Albert Ulschmidt, can the Oilers raise their game one more level to the top of the West?

7. San Jose Sharks (5)

The Sharks are fading. This is not the dominant team we've seen in past years. They sit 6th in the West and have yet to pass 70 points, granted they've only played 53 games.

8. Philadelphia Flyers (6)

May as well hand 2nd place in the East to Phili right now. They have a 19 point lead atop the division, and a 14 point lead over the Southeast leader Atlanta. They question is, can Phili challenge Montreal for 1st place? Either way, they are in good position to make it to at least the conference finals if not further.

9. Ottawa Senators (8)

What happened to the dynasty? Ottawa is 9 points back of Montreal. They are sub .500 in their past 10. And worst of all, GM and former Commissioner Andy has stepped down. So now we ask ourselves, is Ottawa's dominance over the East done?

10. Toronto Maple Leafs (10)

The Leafs will probably not win a division with Montreal in it, but they are keeping up with Ottawa which is impressive. Right now they are tied for 4th in the East. Could the battle of Ontario be the big 1st round matchup this year?

11. Colorado Avalanche (13)

The Avs need to add to their lineup. They sit 7th in the West, but are well back of the top tier teams and are in danger of falling out of the playoffs.

12. Nashville Predators (12)

Nashville is almost the feel good story of the PTHL. We're still waiting to see if the only team never to make the playoffs will get in there this year. Currently they sit 8th, battling with Calgary for a playoff spot.

13. Calgary Flames (4)

Sidney Crosby's solid performance has not been enough for the Flames to stay competitive in the West. They are not in the playoffs, well back of Edmonton, and appear that the best they will do is sneak in and lose in the first round. Tim, any interest in trading Crosby?

14. Atlanta (16)

Well, new GM Andre may have saved Atlanta... for now. The struggling franchise has regained some competitiveness and sits atop the Southeast division. But looking at their core, Heatley, Kovaluchuk, and Lehtonen aren't exactly young anymore. This franchise appears to be decreasing in value despite the revived performance.

15. Buffalo Sabres (19)

It's not a sure thing but the Sabres look playoff bound again. They are well back of 5th but sit in the much better position (6th) and could be looking at a 2nd round appearance (or more?) if they can hold onto 6th.

16. New York Rangers (23)

Welcome back Dan. The Rangers are winning again after a horrible start. Unfortunately it took them a long time, probably too long to move into a top 5 position in the East. But as usual that may be a good thing. If they continue this good play they could be looking at 6th, definately the position this team wants as they could be capable of taking down the better teams in the East, just like last year.

17. Washington Capitals (18)

Wow, this is a deep team but the Caps are struggling and barely hold a playoff spot. Boston appears to be falling too, but Washington needs to play better if they wanna hold onto a playoff spot, never mind challenge Atlanta for 3rd.

18. Phoenix Coyotes (18)

Too bad this team isn't in the East cause they are by far the best team not in the playoffs. Phoenix is 3 games above .500, but the West is rediculous.

19. Boston Bruins (11)

The decline has begun. Boston is an old team and now is out of the playoffs. Time to rebuild.

20. Carolina Hurricanes (14)

A strong start may have been deceiving as the Canes have struggled since November. If it weren't for the PP and PK, they might be out of playoff contention. The good news: youngsters Lindqvist and Dansereau are getting good fast, and Williams is coming off the IL. They have some work to do but Carolina is looking to move into the playoff picture. 4 points back of Washington with 2 games in hand, but a tough road stretch is ahead.

21. Minnesota (21)

Minny's high flying offense is not getting the job done. Minny started the season in contention for the playoffs, but are fading and should finish 11th or 12th.

22. Dallas Stars (22)

Similar to Minny, started off strong, and is now fading. The future is still very bright though.

23. Tampa Bay Lightning (17)

For a while it looked like Tampa could be a playoff team, then they faded. Now a 5-3-2 record in their past 10 has brought them closer, but still a good chunk out. 5 points to make up with 1 less game in hand than Washington, and two other teams (Boston and Carolina) are ahead as well.

24. New York Islanders (25)

The Isles have their top prospects playing in the NHL, so a late push isn't out of the question, but the gap might be too big. Look out next year, Frolik, Sheppard, and soon Nigel Williams will be forces to be reackoned with.

25. Florida Panthers (24)

Improved performances including some high scoring wins won't be enough this year, but Florida is slowly regaining their success which hasn't happened since the dark days of Tim.

26. New Jersey Devils (27)

Once a promising franchise, the Devils appear to be losing value once again. They have fallen in the standings again, and don't appear to have a contending team in the works. At least for now.

27. Anaheim Ducks (29)

Just like their name the Ducks are no longer mighty like they once were. But they appear to be making some progress now.

28. Columbus Blue Jackets (28)

Look at some of the offensive guys Columbus has put together. They might just be a solid team in a few seasons.

29. Vancouver Canucks (26)

Another team who was once the best in the West. Now they are simple a mess.

30. Pittsburgh Penguins (30)

I'll just use my comment from te last edition: "Uncabob can’t find luck with anyone (first Florida, now Pittsburgh). The Pens are the lowest scoring team in the league and are the frontrunners for the #1 pick. Too bad it’s a bad draft." That was about half the season ago and it's all still true.

Biggest Climbs: Montreal (+12), New York Rangers (+7), Chicago (+6)

Biggest Falls: Calgary (-9), Boston (-8), Carolina (-6), Tampa Bay (-6)

December 17th (EHM Date November 14th)

(Previous Ranking in Brackets)

1. Detroit Red Wings (1)

No surprise Detroit has come out flying, 1 point back of 1st and 2 games in hand means the champs are on top of the rankings again. 1st in goals against shows how dominant Detroit’s defense is.

2. St.Louis Blues (3)

They don’t have a GM but they have the talent. St/Louis is the league’s hottest team right now with 8 wins in their past 10 games. #1 PK in the league belongs to the Blues.

3. Los Angeles Kings (10)

Another team with no GM but LA is currently in 1st place. Maybe LA will be a force in the West despite the intense competition.

4. Calgary Flames (11)

Tim is nowhere to be found but maybe that’s a good thing. Calgary is tied for the lead in the Northwest and has 3 games in hand on Edmonton. Last year’s trip to the conference finals may not have been a fluke.

5. San Jose Sharks (9)

San Jose is only 7th in the West but with only 16 games played, they are looking pretty solid with a .688 win %.

6. Philadelphia Flyers (6)

The Senators are not on top of the East. It is Philadelphia after the first 17 games. They have the league’s best PP and are off to a solid 9-4-1-3 start. Is this the year they finally make a push for the finals?

7. Chicago Blackhawks (4)

Decent start for the Blackhawks who are 6th in the West, but they are the league’s top goalscoring team beside Edmonton who has played 3 more games. Will they be able to catch Detroit for the division?

8. Ottawa Senators (2)

I suppose we all except more from the Sens who are off to a good, but not great start. Still they are 1 point back of 1st in the East, but it appears they will not be the favourite for the President’s Trophy this year.

9. Edmonton Oilers (8)

Edmonton is off to an ok start. Tied for the division lead and 1st in goals for but they’ve also played the most games in the league with 21. It appears the battle of Alberta will once again decide the division.

10. Toronto Maple Leafs (12)

Toronto does appear to be one of the top teams in the East this year as they are tied with Ottawa and 1 point back of 1st so far. This could be the year the Leafs win a few playoff series’.

11. Boston Bruins (16)

The Bruins are hanging around in the playoff picture thanks to solid special teams. #2 PP and PK in the league. Is this team capable of finishing 4 or 5, or will they slip down to a bubble team? Better off finishing 6th than 4th or 5th anyway.

12. Nashville Predators (19)

Is this finally the season? The only team never to have made the playoffs might finally get there in season 9. I said the Preds were a powerhouse in the future, how about this year? They are 4 games above .500, though have slowed down after a 5-1 start.

13. Colorado Avalanche (13)

The Avs aren’t in the playoffs but are still over .500. Is that gonna be good enough though? Nashville has entered the playoff picture, and Phoenix, Minnesota, and Dallas aren’t too far behind. Colorado will need a better record to avoid dropping out of the playoffs.

14. Carolina Hurricanes (20)

Forget about the prospects this team picked up in the draft, Carolina has put together a half decent team for this season which currently leads the Southeast, and which won 5 straight before the most recent sim. Carolina appears to be a playoff contender this year, making the deal to trade away their 1st seem like a solid move now, especially considering Schovajsa has developed to a solid 84 defense.

15. Montreal Canadians (7)

Frank is busy and his team record has reflected that. The Habs are off to a disappointing .500 start.

16. Atlanta Thrashers (25)

What’s going on with the Thrashers? Last year they were a mess, this year they are back in the playoff picture.

17. Tampa Bay Lightning (24)

Just like the good ol’ days, it’s a 3-way battle between Tampa, Atlanta, and Carolina for the Southeast lead. Tampa Bay has added a few vets and their record is improving. But Tampa has traded a lot of future away and unless they become a contender, these moves may hurt the team greatly.

18. Phoenix Coyotes (17)

.500 hockey is a good start but it’s becoming clear that it won’t be nearly enough to make the playoffs in the West.

19. Buffalo Sabres (18)

On the contrary, .500 is definitely enough to make the playoffs in the East. At least it is right now.

20. Washington Capitals (14)

Is Washington’s run atop the division over? Like past years, they find themselves behind CAR, TB, and ATL, and are below .500 to start. Lots of time to fix this though.

21. Minnesota Wild (22)

Minny started off strong, but have dropped to .500 recently. Once again .500 is not enough for the playoffs in the West, but the Wild have improved greatly from last season.

22. Dallas Stars (21)

Dallas started off strong too but fell to .500 recently as well. They get better every year but once again the Stars could be saying next year is the year.

23. New York Rangers (5)

What is going on here? The Rangers go from 2nd best team in the East to 3rd worst . They should rebound, but a rough start has the Rangers at a record of 5-9-1-1 and drops them to #23 on the rankings.

24. Florida Panthers (26)

Not a bad start, 1 game under .500. You never know in the East, so if the Panthers can hover around .500 maybe they will have a shot at the playoffs for the first time in years.

25. New York Islanders (15)

The Isles were looking to make the playoffs with their 1st round pick gone, but they haven’t looked too sharp early on with only 14 points. Will they rebound in November and December?

26. Vancouver Canucks (30)

The Canucks got a much needed GM and have actually won a few games (7). But they will not be a contender in the West considering how many teams are at least at .500.

27. New Jersey Devils (23)

The Devils look like they will finish near the bottom of the East. The team needs to pick up some solid prospects.

28. Columbus Blue Jackets (29)

No one was expecting much from the Blue Jackets, at least they have some solid prospects in the organization.

29. Anaheim Ducks (27)

Like I said before the Ducks are rebuilding rather slowly. They've missed the playoffs for 2 or 3 straight seasons and only have a few prospects to show for it. This could be their ranking for years to come.

30. Pittsburgh Penguins (28)

Uncabob can’t find luck with anyone (first Florida, now Pittsburgh). The Pens are the lowest scoring team in the league and are the frontrunners for the #1 pick. Too bad it’s a bad draft.

Biggest Climb: Atlanta Thrashers (9 Spots)

Biggest Fall: New York Rangers (18 Spots)

November 27th (EHM Date October 10th)

1. Detroit Red Wings

The Cup champions are not only the favourite coming in, they have a distinct advantage. The GM’s that built Chicago, St.Louis, and San Jose are now gone, leaving Yannick as the only top West team with the GM that built the team. It looks as though Detroit will have a much easier time this season winning the West.

2. Ottawa Senators

Ottawa appears to have quite average defense this season but has such a strong offense that once again I see no reason why they won’t win the East.

3. St.Louis Blues

Beau’s recent departure brings up the question if St.Louis can remain a contender for the division. They certainly have the roster, but are underdogs to Detroit this season.

4. Chicago Blackhawks

Similar to St.Louis, the team’s long time and only GM Jay left this offseason. Former Sabres GM Aaron took over, and having a GM at all is a big advantage for the Hawks. They are still a top team, but lets see if Aaron can lead them over Detroit.

5. New York Rangers

The Rangers surprised everyone with late season run to win 2nd in the East and make the conference finals. The battle for the division is on once again. Can the Rangers beat out the Flyers two years in a row?

6. Philadelphia Flyers

Phili could not hold off the Rangers last year, but they did win a key first round matchup, then they ran into Ottawa. This year they hope to regain the division, and win more than 1 playoff series. This roster continues to get better, and if anyone is to overtake Ottawa, I’m guessing Phili has the best chance.

7. Montreal Canadians

Montreal could not beat Ottawa for the division and after that ended up losing in the first round so it was a rough finish for the Canadians. Ottawa’s team is still superior but Montreal will give another shot at a division win.

8. Edmonton Oilers

Edmonton is aging. Most key players on this team are over 30, so time is running out to have success in the West. Last year’s 8th place finish was not a good sign, but with several GMless teams maybe Edmonton can capitalize.

9. San Jose Sharks

Long time GM Bachir who lead this team to success in the West is now gone. San Jose has a load of talent as usual, but without a GM it appears they are struggling with a 1-3 start. Now we have to wonder if they will still be a force in the West?

10. Los Angeles Kings

Like San Jose, this team will likely struggle without a GM. Los Angeles can be a top team in the West, but are looking at a 6th-8th place finish now.

11. Calgary Flames

The Flames core is aging and Tim is nowhere to be found. How long until Calgary drops off the map? Crosby won’t be able to carry this team by himself once a few key players retire. And with teams like Dallas and Nashville close to breaking out, someone in the West has to drop out of the playoffs.

12. Toronto Maple Leafs

The Leafs get better as the seasons progress, and nearly pulled off the upset vs the Rangers last year. The question is can they do better than 6th in the East? As of right now, they have to beat out one of Montreal, Phili, or NYR.

13. Colorado Avalanche

It’s hard to believe so many West playoff teams have no GM. Colorado is probably the worst of the bunch, and with Dallas and Nashville getting better, they will some be a non-playoff team. You have to wonder if Phoenix will take their place this year?

14. Washington Capitals

Washington has the easy division win already in place, and last year picked up a solid round 1 win too. But as of now it’s hard to say that they have the talent to beat any of the top teams in the East, with an improved roster that may be the case. We’ll have to see. Enjoy the division while you can, because next year it’s coming back to Carolina.

15. New York Islanders

The Islanders picked up some key talent in the draft, and on top of that made some trades to build a playoff worthy roster. It appears the Isles are looking at a 6th-8th place finish this year.

16. Boston Bruins

The Bruins are quickly aging and with the addition of Allison seem to have put together a decent roster, but don’t seem to have the talent as some other East teams. With some rebuilding teams getting ready to break out, maybe rebuilding is the way to go for the Bruins?

17. Phoenix Coyotes

Is this the Coyotes year? They have not made the playoffs in a while, but with so many GMless teams, maybe they can sneak in there this year.

18. Buffalo Sabres

The Sabres finally made the playoffs last year, but don’t seem as strong this year after a few offseason trades (such as dealing away Schremp and some other depth) and may once again find themselves short of the post-season.

19. Nashville Predators

Nashville is getting better, and had an incredible 19 picks in the draft. They could probably field 2 teams in the future. Now it’s only a matter of time until they become a top team.

20. Carolina Hurricanes

After the 2011 draft, Carolina has built a very strong future, especially defensively with Lindqvist and Clarke added. However it will likely take 1 or 2 years for this talent to develop. With an already solid defense, Carolina should win a few games, but fall short of the playoffs in 9th-11th place. The question as always is will the team score any goals?

21. Dallas Stars

The Stars get better every year and last year it seemed as if they might have a chance at the playoffs. But that faded. This year they will look to improve again, but their defense may not be good enough yet to make the playoffs. Wait until Johnson and Duchak develop. It’s only a matter of time until Dallas kicks one of the current 8 out of the playoffs.

22. Minnesota Wild

All of the sudden the Wild look like they could be playoff contenders. They added a franchise goalie and forward to the equation. They’re offense looks very strong with Semin, Bouchard, Koivu, and Vermette amongst others, but defense is still being built. Minnesota may also be an upcoming power in the West.

23. New Jersey Devils

The Devils have built a half decent team but need to start accumulating good prospects for the future. Good start in this draft with McEachern and trading for Chiasson.

24. Tampa Bay Lightning

The Lightning seem to be half-way through a rebuild. They have a half decent roster but really have a very small chance at making the playoffs. If they could pick up some solid prospects in upcoming drafts, they would have a playoff potential team. But it doesn’t appear that will happen with their 2012 1st gone.

25. Atlanta Thrashers

Atlanta is going in the wrong direction. Franchise players are aging and the team lacks defense. It’s time to pick up some picks and prospects cause they can’t make the playoffs now and things will only get worse.

26. Florida Panthers

Tom is giving this team a bright future very quickly. A few solid picks in the draft and they now have a franchise forward and defenseman. It’s a work in progress.

27. Anaheim Ducks Anaheim is rebuilding rather slowly. At this pace it could be years before they ever have a shot at the playoffs. Would not be surprised to see the Ducks fall close to the basement.

28. Pittsburgh Penguins

Pittsburgh added some solid prospects with some trades but probably do not have the depth or defense to be a playoff contender this season. This team seems to be in a rebuilding mode again.

29. Columbus Blue Jackets

Phil Kessel and a few other solid prospects are new additions. Columbus is looking like another solid team that will rise in the West in a few seasons.

30. Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks need a GM. They have a horrible team now, and a horrible team for the future.

Biggest Climb: N/A
Biggest Fall: N/A

July 10th (EHM Date October 28th)

By: Francis Nelson Jr.

The power rankings reflect team’s position in the standings as well as recent moves, developments, and how well they’ve played since the last power rankings (approximately). They are just for fun and have no value in the league, and they are just the honest opinion of myself, Francis Nelson Jr. (Montreal GM). Enjoy!

This Edition	Last Edition	Team	Description
1	3	St. Louis Blues	If you ever see St. Louis or San Jose outside of the top five, something is seriously wrong. St. Louis is 1^st in the standings and for a good reason. Sophomore goalie Riaboff is playing outstanding goaltending earning a 2.09 GAA and 1 shutout. The defense is playing very well in front of him, allowing only 21 shots per game. They will be battling San Jose all season long for the President’s Trophy and the top ranking.
2	2	San Jose Sharks	Lou Placzkowski has been as solid as ever for San Jose again this year. He’s posted 2 shutouts in 11 games and has a 1.99 GAA. The biggest thing keeping that is keeping Gerges’ Sharks from 1^st in the league is their special teams.
3	13	Colorado Avalanche	Despite (or maybe because of) Darren rarely being around, the Avs are off to one of the best starts, if not their best start ever. They lead a division that includes the likes of powerhouses in Edmonton and Calgary. Their 16 points has them a point out of 1^st place in the league
4	5	Los Angeles Kings	The red light goes on a lot when the Kings hit the ice for both sides. Even so, LA has outscored their opponents 41-38; just enough to net them 16 points in 11 games for a three way tie for 2^nd place in the league with Colorado and San Jose.
5	1	Ottawa Senators	Expected to win the conference, Ottawa has started the season doing just that, but albeit barely. A dismal PP is keeping them from severely dominating the East. They have a big lead in their division. Montreal, Toronto, and Boston will need the help of each other to even have a shot at catching the high flying Sens.
6	6	Calgary Flames	Calgary has been solid in most aspects of the game except their PK units, ranking 28^th in the league. They either need to play more disciplined hockey or change up their PK lines if they want to take back control of their division.
7	9	Philadelphia Flyers	Leading their division and are the biggest threat right now to wrestle the Eastern Conference title away from Ottawa who has won it every year since 1846. They have very good special teams, efficient offense, and a disciplined defense. The only thing that is keeping them in second place is Ottawa’s one tie against Tampa Bay. Philadelphia just needs to keep playing the way they have been playing and they should stay in contention all season long.
8	7	Edmonton Oilers	They have 14 points in 11 games due to their good PP and PK units. Their offense is doing its job, as is the defense. Too bad for them they share a division with stacked Calgary and the Colorado Surprises, er Avalanche.
9	4	Chicago Blackhawks	They have a B- PP and a B+ PK. Their goalscoring offense (45 goals) is offset by their mediocre ablitiy to let in goals (32.) With Detroit battling to move up from 8^th, it will make it hard for Chicago to challenge St. Louis for the Division. That and St. Louis is just that good.
10	20	Washington Capitals	Last season Reierson brought them farther than expected. Can new GM Cary Sumners improve upon that? Right now their defense first approach has them currently leading the GMless division. If they can improve their PP% they can become even more dangerous, especially with Vokun leading the race for the Jennings and possibly the Vezina trophy.
11	10	Detroit Red Wings	Still trying to climb up the pole of power in the West. Currently sitting in 8^th place. They traded Lehtinen for Kilger, and now are looking to trade Kilger for Hejduk. Hejduk could be the second coming for Detroit’s PP from hell. Though losing Kilger on the PK unit could hurt them.
12	26	Dallas Stars	Seasons ago, the team’s owner had considered installing a revolving door on the GM office. Then along came Botelho and he has stayed with them ever since. A few seasons of sitting in the basement is finally starting to pay off, as Dallas has most of the pieces they need to make a playoff appearance. They’ve scored the most goals in the league, but it means little when you are letting in the most goals as well.
13	19	Buffalo Sabres	Buffalo is off to a great start to overachieve this season. They are 4^th in the East, a lot higher than most people expected them to be. Hannu Toivonen needs to keep up his solid play as several teams just below Buffalo in the standings are looking to catch and pass them as the season goes on.
14	15	Pittsburgh Penguins	Someone needs to remind JV that rebuilding teams are supposed to suck. If they can improve their PP just a few percentage points, they could possibly take the division lead away from powerhouse Philly.