While several of the top teams in the league made some big changes this summer, last year’s Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning made just one roster move and GM Steve Yzerman is hoping the chemistry this franchise gained through winning last year will carry over into the upcoming hockey season.
Despite winning the cup, ESPN has the franchise third in their latest power rankings, mostly due to a lack of player movement, but Yzerman knows what it takes to win games and is doing what he thinks is best for his organization.
Anaheim was on or near the top of the rankings all year last season and lead the way into training camp with the top spot according to ESPN. With several moves this summer to add depth to an already deep squad, the Ducks are favorites to win a championship and bring a title back to Southern California.
Calgary was one of the best stories in the game as the Flames rose from obscurity to gain a top-8 spot in the Western Conference. With Dougie Hamilton now in the mix, the biggest question for the squad is in the net, but after their rise last season, fans are expecting another trip to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
One team to watch early in the year is Edmonton as the team has several talented youngsters ready to breakthrough. They rank just 21st in the latest NHL power rankings, but new general manager Peter Chiarelli added depth on the back line and with a bit of luck, the Oilers could finally break their playoff drought and give the loyal fans something to cheer about over the next few months.
