With all 8 teams set in the west for playoff participation, who do you think is the most likely to reach the finals? How about the least likely?
Rank them in order of most to least likely.
Here's my crack at it:
1. Edmonton. I feel as though this is their year. McDavid missing a few games late in the year can be a blessing in disguise, with him being 100% in shape and rested come playoffs.
2. Colorado. I could see them winning again, after an off-year last playoffs. Fantastic core. I know goaltending is a bit worrisome, but it's not like they had a top goalie 2 years ago either
3. Vancouver. I thought their team/core did really good in the covid playoffs, as underdogs. Very curious to see the likes of EP, Hughes and co get another stab at playoffs - I think entering as a top team they could do quite well. Demko is having a great year too
4. Vegas. This isn't about them being #8, nor about injuries (we all knew they'd be health come playoffs) - I just don't think they will go back to back. They'll likely do damage but be out by round 2 or 3, maybe even round 1 depending on matchups. It's possible they win again, but I don't think they will.
5. Dallas. A lot of people are very high on them, but for some reason I'm just not as sold.
6. Nashville - I think Nashville is dangerous, and so is Saros. They had a slow start but have been among absolute top teams for a while
7. Winnipg Jets. I have no faith in this core. Helle is pretty good, but doesn't matter. I expect they lose to Colorado in round 1
8. Los Angeles. They will also lose in round 1.
How about you? How do you rank them, most to least likely to reach the finals this year?