Pacific Division Power Rankings: Playoff Chase Edition

The Stanley Cup playoffs are nearly upon us, which means contending teams are cranking up the intensity. No lolly-gagging or horsing around here; otherwise, you'll get left in the dust. That's where the Vegas Golden Knights are, for they're third in the Pacific Division.

So where do the defending champions sit in the grand scheme of things? Who else is in front of the Golden Knights at the moment? Here's a quick dive into where the top Pacific Division teams stand in the playoff race.

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.