Nashville Predators: Strong performances lead to Predators climb in Power Rankings
Juggling act at the bottom of the list
Still not ranked: Chicago Blackhawks
This has nothing to do with my feelings toward the Blackhawks. Sure, you won’t believe me, but it is true. I am just not sold on who you are right now. Corey Crawford is carrying you at the moment. Take away the 10 goals in your opening game, and you are being outscored. And, while you have some recent wins, they have come against Carolina, Pittsburgh (who I am not sure what to think about this year), and the New York Rangers. Loses to Montreal and Philadelphia are not resume builders.
Number 8: Colorado Avalanche
Last Week: Not Ranked.
As things stand tonight, the Avalanche sit in a point out of second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. With wins over the Washington Capitals and Detroit Red Wings, Colorado is showing they are better than last season.
In six of their last nine games, the Avalanche scored four or more goals. They are on pace for 264 goals on the season, an increase of 98 goals over last year. Maybe trading Matt Duchene helped the locker room. New defensemen Samuel Girard certainly looks to be what we thought he could be.
What is surprising is the fact Colorado sits ninth in the NHL in even strength scoring. That is helping them to a 4-3-1 record in November. Can the team keep up the pace? Or will the youthful Avalanche fade into the background as the season progresses?
Number 7: Anaheim Ducks
Have to give them credit. They win at home and win on the road. It may have taken a nine-round shootout versus the San Jose Sharks last night, but a win is a win. And, that give the Ducks the top Wild Card spot in the West.
Can they compete against the top teams, however? Four straight loses to the NHL’s best suggests not. Their next few games include the surprise Vegas Golden Knights and Winnipeg Jets. Both at home. They follow that up with a tough six-game road trip. If they survive, they will be well on their way to a playoff spot.