Pacific Division
In what could be the best series in the opening round, the Vegas Golden Knights are currently slated to face the Edmonton Oilers. These would be must watch games with the likes of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Jack Eichel all competing each night. Add Jonathan Marchessault for good measure into the mix just to see him rip some shots.
The Oilers have obvious flaws to their game. Luckily for Coach Jay Woodcroft, they have some time before the post season begins to figure out how to spread their offensive production and more importantly, how to fortify their back end. The Oilers need goaltending as Jack Campbell has been a bust, setting the Oilers back and seeing them struggle between the pipes just like they’ve experienced in previous seasons.
The NHL latest entry, the Seattle Kraken have made big strides since their inaugural season last year. They now appear poised to not just enter the post season for the first time, but even win a round. If the season were to end today, it would be up to the Los Angeles Kings tasked with slowing them down.
The Kings came out of the gate firing on all cylinders this season but have recently stumbled significantly. They have won four of their last thirteen games. If Los Angeles continues at that pace, they may find themselves outside the playoff picture looking in. However, if LA is the team that the Kraken lines up to face for their first post season puck drop, Seattle could be licking their chops.