A bit of separation
#2 – Vegas Golden Knights
Last Week’s Ranking: #2
Record Last Week: 3-1-0
Is Vegas rebounding or will the excitement of the season wear them down? Injuries are certainly a concern. James Neal has missed the last six games with an injured hand, and Reilly Smith is going to miss at least one more game. Vegas has not scored more than four goals in Neal’s absence. The tenor of their current road trip almost changed on Sunday, but a late goal led to an eventual shootout win over Buffalo.
#1 – Nashville Predators
Last Week’s Ranking: #1
Record Last Week: 3-0-1
Three of the Predators’ four games were on home ice. That certainly helps. But, all four games were against teams in the playoffs if the season ended today. There is no doubt Nashville is the NHL’s hottest team. With a seven point lead in the division, and five points in the conference, the Predators are in a prime spot to earn home ice in the playoffs. But, the rest of the season is filled with tests. Ten of their final 14 games are against playoff hopes, including two against Winnipeg and Minnesota, plus Tampa.