Re: NHL Predictions
Impossible to predict. Right now in the West, it appears that every team has a shot at the playoffs. In the East, it looks like only the Capitals, Hurricanes, and Rangers have no chance - Florida and Buffalo's chances are slim as well (and Pittsburgh but don't tell them that).
The reason I say it's impossible to predict is because no one is coming back with a stable roster of offense and defense that they can rely on. The Flames were great in the playoffs in 03-04, but on paper their lineup is very average. Philadelphia made some huge moves this summer but they've lost at least seven and maybe as many as ten players from their playoff run in 03-04. Toronto, who was always contending pre-lockout, lost six future Hall of Famers but picked up 2 guys who would've been HOFers if not for injury, as well as Jeff O'Neill.
But there are some teams who've stayed stable.. so my prediction is the Anaheim Mighty Ducks and Ottawa Senators meet in the 2005-06 Stanley Cup Finals, with the Senators winning in 6.
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