NHL Season Preview: Eastern Conference

A couple of days ago we dealt with the Western Conference, and tonight we get to deal with the Eastern Conference. So, here we go!

Atlantic Conference:
New Jersey Devils
New York Islanders
New York Rangers
Philadelphia Flyers
Pittsburgh Penguins

When you talk about this division, you have so much to talk about. Crosby, Malkin, Kovalchuk, Parise, Fleury, Broduer, Tavares, Richards, Lundqvist. This is a loaded division. The Pens have had a rough start in their new arena, but you know that they'll rebound. Though the loss of Sergei Gonchar is not something that should be taken lightly. Philly, you know, must be brimming with confidence after their playoff run. And if their new young goalie continues on his good beginning, then they could be the next cup champs. Islanders will still stink, and the Rangers could sneak in if they are very, VERY lucky. We could probably see 3 playoff teams from this division again. But, in the end, I think our division winner may be the one returning to the cup finals. Most people are going to ride the Pens or the Devils;

Division Winner: Philadelphia Flyers

Northeast Division:
Boston Bruins
Buffalo Sabres
Montreal Canadiens
Ottowa Senators
Toronto Maple Leafs

Another very decent division. Though the Leafs have been down and out from the beginning, I think that they may be THE Eastern Conference dark horse that comes out to play. J.S. Giguere is an outstanding goalie that has won a Stanley Cup and a Conn Smythe (of course not in the same year). Hard to look down on the Sabres while they have Ryan Miller, thought their offense has a lot left to be desired. The Habs, I bet, will still probably make the playoffs, but I doubt they win this division. Look for the Bruins to repeat.

Division Winner: Boston Bruins

Southeast Division:
Atlanta Thrashers
Carolina Hurricanes
Florida Panters
Tampa Bay Lightning
Washington Capitals

I don't think that there is any secret about who is going to win this division. The Capitals have been one of the best teams in the NHL for the last few years, yet always come up short in the playoffs. The question isn't whether or not that Caps win this division, it's whether or not they will win the President's tropy, the entire Eastern Conference, and the Stanley Cup. Plus, 2 teams from Florida in the NHL? I mean, come on. Move one of these guys back to Canada where they appreciate their hockey. Easy choice.

Division Winner: Washington Capitals.
Though watch for tampa to make a run at the playoffs. This team is much better than they were.