They are. They're 3rd in the division. But, it's tight. If Buffalo beats Boston tonight, they're out by 1 point and Sabres are in, although Habs will hold 2 games in hand on Sabres.
Fla is 1 pt behind Habs with a game in hand. TB 2 pts back with 2 games in hand.
It's a big weekend back to back.
Although the division looks like the easier route, you have to think at some point, tampa gets their act together, and join boston as a divisional seed, and the leafs as well. They've actually been making a move since the coaching change, as teams often do.
That leaves the WC spot, where habs are clearly behind, and the WC bar is actually even higher than last year right now. The habs are also pacing below their own mark from last year as it stands.
There were a couple things that had to happen IMO for the habs to enter playoffs this year. The isles and jackets had to take a step back. The jackets have done so, but the isles are still rolling. Not only that, but the flyers have also roared into the picture with a new coaching staff.
So, who exactly are the habs taking out in order to get a spot? I just don't see it.
