[simmer2]

Most teams have now played around 40% of their games so far this year (with the exception of the Oilers who are big slackers) and the standings are starting to sort themselves out. There have been a few surprises so far, and there are some teams that were expected to be at the top.

Western Conference

1. LA Kings - 47pts

Axel stated when he took over the Kings that he wanted to push for the playoffs and that he has. He's struggled a bit to get Malkin and Kovalchuk performing where their ratings indicate, but he's managed very balanced scoring so far. Chris Mason was a solid pickup and all signs look to a strong 2nd half as well.

2. Minnesota Wild - 45pts

Like every other year, Grant has a contending team. He hasn't had anybody on his team really light it up, but like the Kings he's had balanced scoring throughout his lineup. The Wild will be pushing the Kings the rest of the way for the Western Conference lead.

3. St. Louis Blues - 45pts

The Blues are somewhat of a surprise this year. Not that they haven't had success in the past, but with the new SIM GM Spike wasn't sure how they'd perform. On paper they don't blow you away but the team has had balanced scoring and the acquisition of Jokinen has helped immensely. If they stay consistent, look for them to win the division title.

4. Anaheim Ducks - 46pts

After a shaky start, the Ducks have really turned it on as of late. They are being led by Briere who has played very well this season and is one of the top CPHL scorers. Defensively they've struggled a bit which is odd considering their d-core and goaltending but their offense has been very strong. If they continue surging, look for them to surpass the Kings in the Pacific Division.

5. San Jose Sharks - 42pts

The Sharks have flown under the radar so far this year and they're fine with that. They are getting good production out of Getzlaf and Pominville but more importantly the team defense has been very good; they are 2nd in the CPHL in GA and Thomas is leading the league in both GAA and SV%.

6. Dallas Stars - 42pts

The Stars are a pleasant surprise this year and the main reason for that is their defense, namely Souray. Souray is near the top of the CPHL scoring race as a defenseman and also has a strong +12. Legace has also performed well. Technically though, the Stars are a rebuilding team still so some tough decisions face this team.

7. Edmonton Oilers - 38pts

The Oilers should be higher in the standings if they actually played more games, but right now GM Syl can't be disappointed with the performance so far. They have a well-balanced offense and defense, and they are getting contributions from everyone. Osgood hasn't played great, but he's been good enough so far.

8. Chicago Blackhawks - 38pts

The Hawks are in a playoff spot now but most teams within striking distance have a number of games in hand. The Hawks have had troubles putting pucks in the net and need Lecavalier to start performing better if they plan on making the playoffs. Bryz has been busy in net and is performing above his indicated ratings but needs some help.

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9. Detroit Red Wings - 37pts

The Wings have been playing better hockey as of late but are in the bottom half of team GF and GA. Umberger has been stellar so far and has a great +23 rating, but the rest of the team needs to pick it up for the Wings to sneak into the playoffs.

10. Columbs Blue Jackets - 35pts

The Jackets started off the season very well and are likely higher in the standings even at 10th than many people predicted. This is mainly due to the play of the 1st line, in particular Lombardi who leads the team in scoring. They are 8th in the league in GF and will need that to continue to push for a playoff spot.

11. Phoenix Coyotes - 33pts

After starting the year strong, the Coyotes have fallen back mainly due to a lot of GA...currently they sit 3rd last in the league for GA. Dave Bolland has played very well and Wideman is strong on defense but Roloson needs to improve on his 0.878SV% if the Coyotes are going to make a surge.

12. Calgary Flames - 32pts

The Flames haven't been consistent enough this year to put together a winning streak which has led to them being near the bottom of the standings. They are sitting 27th in GF and need Spezza to step up; less than a PPG by him won't get the Flames anywhere.

13. Vancouver Canucks - 32pts

After a good start, the Canucks have really cooled off as of late. A lack of ability to score goals and letting in too many isn't a good combo. Zajac has been good but guys like Krejci and Rolston have really underperformed so far. Look for some trades fairly soon to try and straighten things out or this team will miss the playoffs yet again.

14. Nashville Predators - 25pts

It was expected the Preds wouldn't be very good this year and they aren't disproving that. They are a rebuilding team who has some solid upcoming rookies and look for them to have a high draft choice come the 2010 Entry Draft. Lack of Cheese space will allow Vic to do much trading near the deadline unfortunately.

15. Colorado Avalanche - 17pts

The Avs knew they'd struggle to make the playoffs this year, but they've even underperformed based on those expectations. On paper this team should be better but sitting dead last in GA won't get you very far. It's a shame the Pens have the Avs 1st round pick as well.