Dan Murphy picks the teams that will make the NHL playoffs. Well, in the West at least.
It's that time of the year for predictions, so I thought I better get one out before it's too late. And since I'm feeling lazy today I am only going to predict the playoff teams from the Western Conference. Feel free to mock these picks and submit your own. But remember, sticks and stones...
Also, did anyone see Scott Burnside's power rankings on ESPN? Take a peek. I'm wondering if old Burnsy spent a weekend with Marc Emery before hashing those stinkers out. I read Burnside whenever he writes (which is a lot) and I usually like his stuff.
However this time I believe he's way off. He has the Canucks at No. 17. I may be a bit of a homer here, but I can't see how anyone can possibly believe the Lightning, Kings, Panthers and Oilers will finish ahead of Vancouver. Maybe one of those squads; but all four? No way.
Also the Devils at No. 24 and Stars at No. 26 are way too low. But I guess that's why they call it opinion.
With that said, here goes.
WESTERN CONFERENCE PLAYOFF TEAMS
Sharks: Scary, scary team. Incredible offence. Good mix on defence. Solid coaching. And remember, this is regular-season rankings I'm talking about.
Wings: Until someone finishes ahead of them in the Central, I will go with the Wings. Loss of Jiri Hudler and Mikael Samuelsson will hurt.
Canucks: Taking Canucks over Flames in NW because I think Roberto Luongo is on the rise and Miikka Kiprusoff is not.
Blackhawks: What's not to love about this young, talented, speedy team? For me, only one thing. Cristobal Huet. Not sold.
Flames: Robyn Regehr-Jay Bouwmeester pairing quite possibly the best in the NHL. Mike Cammalleri's goals will be missed but I think Jarome Iginla will help anyone's stats on that line.
Ducks: One incredible line. Another solid line. Versatile defence despite the loss of Chris Pronger and Francois Beauchemin. Two capable keepers.
Blues: Love their youth. Like their grit. Paul Kariya and Erik Johnson healthy a huge plus. Goalie Chris Mason needs another strong season to make me a believer.
Oilers: Weren't great last season and still needed to collapse down the stretch to miss the playoffs. I like them better than CBJ, DAL and LAK who will be there 'til the end.
Finally, don't forget to follow me on Twitter. I'll be posting regularly from Canucks practices and pre-game skates.
And for those of you wondering who that is in my profile photo, it is none other than MMA heavyweight Cheick Kongo at UFC 62. And yes, the wallpaper is of my grandfather -- John Garrett.
