Pacific Division Power Rankings After December

The Vegas Golden Knights have some competition coming in hot in the Pacific. Who's currently the biggest threat to the defending Stanley Cup champs before the new year?
Los Angeles Kings v Vegas Golden Knights
Los Angeles Kings v Vegas Golden Knights / Ethan Miller/GettyImages
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Life has gotten harder for the Vegas Golden Knights after winning the Stanley Cup. Not only do they have a HUGE target in the Pacific Division, but everyone in the NHL is gunning for them. Nobody said it'd be an easy task trying for back-to-back titles.

However, the Golden Knights have handled matters well so far. They're atop the NHL mountain with 49 points, boosted by their hot start. Vegas's scoring depth and aggressive forecheck are proving to be too much for opponents.

So where do they rank in the Pacific Division? What teams are proving to be too much for the NHL? Lettuce break down the big cheeses in the Pacific Division while we warm up our buns for the winter (mmm... burger).

1. Los Angeles Kings

Adrian Kempe, Logan Thompson
Vegas Golden Knights v Los Angeles Kings / Ronald Martinez/GettyImages

Did you know the Los Angeles Kings have the best road record in the NHL (13-2-1)? Forget LeBron James! Hollywood's resident royalty has shown they're the main attraction and will be a tough out for any playoff opponent come spring.

Luckily, the Golden Knights took the season series, 2-1-0, with Thursday's 3-2 win ending a four-game losing streak. If Vegas's goaltending tandem of Adin Hill and Logan Thompson can stay healthy and competent, the Kings will have their hands full in a potential matchup.