Pacific Division Rankings: Where is the Love?
With the playoff race heating up, it's time to show the Pacific Division's top dogs some love. Here's what you should love about these teams.
February is either the best month for people or the worst. You either have a partner that you absolutely love, you're trying to find that special someone, or you're all by yourself. The good news for Vegas Golden Knights fans is they still have the Stanley Cup, which is better than any love story.
However, Vegas's love story is in peril. Having lost five of their last six, the Vegas Golden Knights are in danger of losing their one true love. For the fans, they don't want to see a bad ending.
Still, there's plenty to love about the Golden Knights. The Pacific Division deserves a good story, too. Therefore, we shall focus on what each fanbase should love about their team. Pucker up!
1. Vancouver Canucks: Capitalizing On Their Success
Not many people expected the Vancouver Canucks to be successful this season. But when they skyrocketed to the top of the NHL standings this season, British Columbia was all smiles. Those smiles grew when the Canucks acquired Elias Lindholm from the Calgary Flames. With the young group growing and veteran leadership on board, things are looking up for Vancouver.
2. Vegas Golden Knights: Being Stanley Cup Champions
Yes, things are looking rough for the Vegas Golden Knights right now. However, they're still the defending Stanley Cup champions. They do have a key player coming back named Jack Eichel, which will help their forward depth as well. Acquiring an additional forward or two would be nice. However, players are returning for the Golden Knights.
3. Edmonton Oilers: Finally Getting Scoring From Other Players
When you think of the Edmonton Oilers, you think about Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. That's a given. However, you should also think about Corey Perry, who has five points during his Oilers tenure (three goals, two assists). The former Hart trophy winner is giving hope to Edmonton fans, especially with their title window closing.
4. Los Angeles Kings: Playing Better
Remember when the Los Angeles Kings were lost and had no direction? They wound up firing Todd McLellan, which ended up working for them. They're 7-2-1 in their last ten games, gaining ground on the Edmonton Oilers and putting pressure on the other teams in the Pacific Division, sans Vancouver.
5. Calgary Flames: Better Offense
The Calgary Flames are selling this season. That's a given. However, their offense has caught... on fire. In the past three games, the Flames have scored 15 goals. Led by Jonathan Huberdeau (one goal, three assists), Calgary has some hope for next season as they look to rebound towards playoff contention.