Where are the difference makers?

[WingsOverAvs]

The realignment has me worried about taking a playoff spot. We've got a hot Boston team, Toronto, and a growing Sens team to deal with. Not to mention dealing with a new set of teams and playing styles.

Realignment probably helps DET. Less travel. Eastern style of hockey tends to be more wide open (less defensive skill). The cap crunch helps DET too. Holland made sure to avoid a potential mess while teams like PIT/PHI/BOS are going to be shedding contracts like snake skin just to get under the cap