One way or another
This is where things really get interesting for me. While the Nashville Predators have a sizable lead in the conference, any of the next three teams could overtake them. All three had good weeks, but many of their opponents are out of the hunt.
#4 – Minnesota Wild
Last Week’s Ranking: #4
Record Last Week: 3-1-0
Three wins means six points, and that is what the Wild needed in order to stay in the hunt. Outscoring your opposition 16-9 helps, but none of the teams they played are even close to making the playoffs. Carolina was their best opponent, and the Wild won 6-2. But the loss to Edmonton on the road gives me pause.
#3 – Winnipeg Jets
Last Week’s Ranking: #3
Record Last Week: 3-1-0
The Jets finished the week with the same record as the Wild. Thankfully, six points separate the two in the standings because their weeks were almost identical. Winnipeg is on a six-game road trip to the East Coast. Their one loss came at the hands of the playoff-hopeful Philidelphia Flyers. But they beat the Devils, Rangers, and Hurricanes.