So we are over half way through the season and playoff partners are being set. Where do things stand now?
Eastern Conference
1. New Jersey Devils vs 8. Carolina Hurricanes
2. Pittsburgh Penguins vs 7. Montreal Canadiens
3. Florida Panthers vs 6. Toronto Maple Leafs
4. Tampa Bay Lightning vs 5. Philadelphia Flyers
The top 3 positions seem to be a race between Jersey, Pitts and Florida. Any losing streak could hurt one of these teams chances at the #1 in the East. 5 points separate 8th place from 4th place with Detroit a mere 3 points out of 8th. Anything can happen here but it is close, if not set, on the top 8.
In the West the top 8 is pretty much set with Colorado 4 points back of the final spot and hoping the Oilers blow a tire down the stretch. Dallas and San Jose appear to be fighting for #1 with positions 6 thru 3 a possible dogfight.
Western Conference
1. Dallas Stars vs 8. Edmonton Oilers
2. San Jose Sharks vs 7. St Louis Blues
3. Anaheim Ducks vs 6. Calgary Flames
4. Minnesota Wild vs 5. Columbus Blue Jackets
Now is the time to decide, am I in, or am I out, what are your chances of moving up 2 or 3 spots or falling out of the race?
Trade deadline is not far away.Make your moves!