Pacific Division Power Rankings: Playoff Chase Edition
The Stanley Cup Playoffs are nearly upon us! Where do the Vegas Golden Knights stand in the grand scheme of things?
1. Vancouver Canucks
The Vancouver Canucks are atop the Pacific Division and cruising. They're on the fast track to the division title and possibly home-ice advantage throughout the Western Conference portion of the playoffs.
But the bigger question is if the Canucks can handle the playoff pressure. The Pacific Division leaders have an effective age of 28.5, which isn't too young for a hockey team. However, with young players like Quinn Hughes and Elias Petterson at the helm, playoff inexperience can be worrisome.
2. Edmonton Oilers
Currently, the Edmonton Oilers sit comfortably in the second spot in the Pacific Division. They've done a better job of getting production for players not named Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
In fact, their leader in goals is none other than Zack Hyman. The Toronto native is tied for second in the NHL with 51 goals, boosting the Oilers offensively. Many NHL fans have been skeptical of the Oilers winning a Stanley Cup, even with the two best players in the world. But with their winger stepping up, that narrative might change this season.
3. Vegas Golden Knights
With Adin Hill out due to an injury, the Vegas Golden Knights called up Jiri Patera from the minors. The Czech goalie had the daunting task of taking on a red-hot Nashville Predators team on Tuesday. While he did everything he could to hold off the Predators, Vegas lost in overtime, 5-4.
Still, the Golden Knights are back in third in the Pacific Division with 88 points. The defending champions are getting back to their fundamentals at the right time, making them a dangerous playoff team once again.
4. Los Angeles Kings
The Los Angeles Kings have fallen into the last Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. That's despite winning four straight heading into Thursday's game against Edmonton.
Suddenly, the Kings have to worry about the Blues behind them. While Los Angeles is five points ahead, St. Louis is 7-2-1 in their last ten games. A sudden cold streak can knock the Kings out of playoff contention if they're not careful.
5. Seattle Kraken
Entering Thursday's game against the Anaheim Ducks, the Seattle Kraken are at 71 points. They're far away from the playoff picture and would need a miracle to simply get in. At the moment, Seattle natives are thinking about the upcoming Mariners season.
Still, it's not to say there haven't been any bright spots. Aside from their Winter Classic victory, the Kraken have young stars like wingers Jared McCann and Eeli Tolvanen. This young group is growing into their own and will arrive sooner than most people think.
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