I’m taking a look at the East division today in the third part of my mid-season predictions. Largely billed as the toughest division when the division realignment for this season was announced, there are some long-time heavyweights in this division as well as some promising up and coming teams. Let’s take a look at what may be the toughest division this year, in reverse order of the standings (as of Feb 28).
Buffalo Sabres
With some big free agent additions in the offseason, the Sabres expected to be better this year. The Sabres have struggled to score goals this season, with few opportunities generated and a poor conversion rate. While their defensive metrics are decent, they simply aren’t scoring enough.
Current Position: 8th
Predicted Finish: 7th
New Jersey Devils
The Devils are allowing a low number of goals against despite giving up a relatively high rate of scoring chances. It’s allowed them to win a few games despite their own low scoring conversion rate.
Current Position: 7th
Predicted Finish: 8th
New York Rangers
The Rangers underlying numbers are relatively strong and their defense may be enough to keep them in the playoff race. The East is simply too strong this year.
Current Position: 6th
Predicted Finish: 6th
Pittsburgh Penguins
The Penguins aren’t creating the number of scoring opportunities they have in recent years. Their defensive game hasn’t been strong enough to keep pace in a loaded East division.
Current Position: 5th
Predicted Finish: 4th
Philadelphia Flyers
The Flyers sit in the last playoff spot on the strength of their offense. Their rate of converting scoring chances to goals seems too high to be sustainable. If it falls off, their defense may not be strong enough to hold off the Penguins.
Current Position: 4th
Predicted Finish: 5th
New York Islanders
After a trip to the conference finals last summer, the Islanders are chugging along in a tough East division. They are one of the best defensive teams in the league.
Current Position: 3rd
Predicted Finish: 3rd
Boston Bruins
The perennial contending Bruins are once again showing strong defensive numbers, with only the Islanders allowing fewer expected goals against in the division.
Current Position: 2nd
Predicted Finish: 2nd
Washington Capitals
The Capitals offense has carried them to the top of the division, however it will be difficult to sustain their conversion rate. Unlike some of the other offensive teams in the division, the Capitals have a relatively strong defensive as well.
Current Position: 1st
Predicted Finish: 1st
Playoff Prediction:
The Islanders outlast the East and make a repeat trip to the 3rd round of the playoffs.
East Division Stanley Cup Semi-Finalist: Boston Bruins
Other posts in this series:
