Another thing to consider is the downward trajectory of other teams in the division. LA, SJ, ANA, and VAN aren't getting better any time soon. LA is getting older, slower, and more crippled by salary cap. SJ loses Thornton and Marleau to UFA or retirement soon. Perry and Getzlaf don't dominate like they used to but it's still too early to count them out. Keep in mind that they will be 34 when Monahan is 25, Gaudreau is 26, Bennett is 24, and Tkachuk is 22. EDM will find a way to mess things up. Phoenix has much further to go than Calgary. I think Calgary, starting next season, will have a good chance of making the playoffs for several years due to a lack of competition in the division. Once you get to the dance, anything can happen.
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