Elevation

This was a comment posted in response to the "musts" post that I wanted to make sure everyone had a chance to read as its well thought out and researched.

Every single roster player has to step up his game at least one notch..
This is the tightest playoff race that I can remember.... and it's simple... those teams who step it up are in... those who don't are out.. Remember separation will come in the next couple of weeks.. Here is my assessment of everyone's chances...

Phoenix Coyotes

Trajectory: UP

Playoff birth probability: 85%

Assessment: Playing some of their best hockey as of late (hottest team in the West right now), putting away top teams and have momentum, I am predicting a playoff birth.

Edmonton Oilers

Trajectory: UP

Playoff birth probability: 50%

Assessment: 7-3-0 in last 10 games, getting points (even ugly points) and starting to get momentum. The Oilers have the talent to go on a run, but will they?? First 10 games after the break will be crucial..

Vancouver Canucks

Trajectory: DOWN

Playoff birth probability: 50%

Assessment: 2-4-4 in last ten… If the lack of chemistry continues the Nucks are toast. If Luongo and Sundin turn up the heat this could be the team to watch in the West. The first 10 games after the break are make it or break it for this team.

Anaheim Ducks

Trajectory: DOWN

Playoff birth probability: 60%

Assessment: Let’s just say it JSG is not playing his best hockey.. the ducks are 4-6-0 in the last ten and they are struggling.. However with the talented veterans on this team (Teemu will soon return) you know they are going to have a good ending to their season.

Minnesota Wild

Trajectory: DOWN

Playoff birth probability: 40%

Assessment: Minnesota’s key ingredient Defense has been missing as of late, this team is just not deep enough (especially when it comes to forwards) to make it. I expect them to slowly fall off..

Columbus Blue Jackets

Trajectory: UP

Playoff birth probability: 55%

Assessment: Need to finish their chances, and improve the PP/PK. If the Jackets are able to turn up the heat they should be able to take advantage of their 11 of 13 at home and secure a little bit of a buffer.

Dallas Stars

Trajectory: Stable

Playoff birth probability: 60%

Assessment: Shocked, that’s all I can say.. Watching last year’s playoffs the Stars where the 2nd best team in the league. I was sure they would be in the top 3 at this point in time. They have too much potential and quality to miss the playoffs, I am predicting a comeback for the Stars. I wouldn’t rule out a run to the conference finals.

Colorado Avalanche

Trajectory: DOWN

Playoff birth probability: 35%

Assessment: Too old and too little organizational depth. After the all-star brake the competition will turn it up a notch and the Avs won’t be able to keep up.

Los Angeles Kings

Trajectory: DOWN

Playoff birth probability: 25%

Assessment: They have a good nucleus of rookies, but they are still 1 to 2 years away from making an impact.

Nashville Predators

Trajectory: DOWN

Playoff birth probability: 25%

Assessment: Years of budget cuts are finally starting to catch up with the Preds (3-7 in the last 10), they might have an upward spasm (trading a D for an FW) but they are simply unable to get enough momentum to catch up with the other teams.

St Louis Blues

Trajectory: DOWN

Playoff birth probability: 2%

Assessment: Injuries, bad luck and lack of depth beyond the 2 lines all add up to a rebuilding mentality. Look out for the Blues in 2011.

Great read Eplagge! I appreciate the post!

Game back on tomorrow!

-LTL