St. Louis Blues
For a team that missed the playoffs last year, the Blues didn't add much of anything to their hockey club. While they started strong last season, the faded quickly in the second half. Now they have lost Erik Johnson for the season and have not been able to replace him. The Blues need to make some roster moves if they hope to contend for a playoff spot this season. The only promising thing about the Blues this year is their new alternate jersey.
4th place
Nashville Predators
Again another team that hasn't really made any additions. I believe their goaltending is still a little questionable with Dan Ellis. He'll have to have a great year for the Preds to compete with the likes of the Wings and improved Hawks
3rd place
Columbus Blue Jackets
Many additions to a team that again, started strong and faded late. New players include; RJ Umberger, Kristian Huselius, Andy McDonald, and Raffi Torres. Also Mike Commodore and Fedor Tyutin on the backend. On paper the Jackets look like a playoff team, but they do have to face the Wings, Hawks, Ducks, Sharks, Wild, and Stars a total of 28 games this year. I'm picking them to miss the playoffs, but just barely.
2nd place
Chicago Blackhawks
Toews and Kane are ready to be top players in the league now and with Brian Campbell on "D" and Huet in net the Hawks seem ready to jump back into the playoffs this year. It might be a tight squeeze but they should make it. Expect Khabibulin to be moved at some point this season.
1st place
Detroit Red Wings
The Stanley Cup champions are the same team as last year, except they've added the biggest offensive threat against them in the Finals last season. Don't think there will be much of a Cup hangover here as many players may get the attitude of, "Lets win it for Hossa". Scoring, defence, goaltending, the Wings may be the best TEAM ever...
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