Yeah. Intense games at the end of the season that actually mean something.
I know those games stopped for Ottawa around November despite declaring themselves off season champions for 3 years in a row…but maybe next year you’ll see what they’re like?
I don't think so, I believe the top 5 spots are spoken for in the Atlantic, the order might change, because Stamkos, Montour, Kane and Reinhart are all prominent free agents.
But even if they all left I don't think that's enough to bump any of Ottawa Buffalo or Montreal into the top 5.
And if anybody says "what if Domi and Bertuzzi leave Toronto?"
First off as long they have Matthews, Marner Nylander and Tavares the offense is fine.
Secondly they had Knies score 15 goals this year, Robertson score 15 goals this year and Bobby Mac score 15 goals this year.
Those 3 are 21, 22 and 27, Robertson and Bobby Mac didn't play a full season this year, chances are all 3 score 20+ next year meaning the offense will likely not be impact.
Point is the top 5 in the Atlantic is absolutely stacked, games for the bottom 3 won't mean much for a while.