15. Tampa Bay: 4-3-1 (9 points)
GA have been an problem (23rd) and they lost some depth this offseason but Tampa should be able to keep these issues at Bay, even if they have to Palat all the stops at some Point.
Random Note: I predict that Kucherov’s injury is going to be long term, TB is going to add a ton of salary in the meantime, and, when the cap isn’t an issue in the postseason, all of these players are going to be ready and eligible. Heh, like that’s possible
14. Philadelphia: 4-2-1 (9 points)
Philadelphia took some Flyers on vets (Brassard, Yandle, Atkinson) who have all impressed this year. Love Ryan Ellis but he’s battled injuries the last few years and has missed four-straight games. Healthy, that’s a nice D! (Got to be a better way to say that)
Random Note: Appreciation for Sean Couturier (699GP, 177G, 452P, 52FO%, 52.3CF%). And those stats are tempered by modest production from ages 19-24; he’s a flat-out (Philly) stud
13. Detroit: 4-3-2 (10 points)
5th in GF with Vrana on the IR and without Bertuzzi full-time is very impressive but I see an impending goalie Greiss-is. If Nedeljkovic steps up, there’ll be another tough Atlantic club Larkin around.
Random Note: Lucas Raymond joins Troy Terry as another player with two first names who leads their team in scoring (it’s been a slow week, what can I say)
12. Columbus: 5-3 (10 points)
Wise men say Elvis Merzlikins’ gaudy numbers (1.98 GAA, .939 SV%) have swayed doubtful fans of Blue Jackets (and shoes). No more suspicious minds.
Random Note: Elvis has not yet left the building.