Rounding out the cream of the crop is never an easy task, but hey, someone’s gotta do it.  So if you’re looking for the very best teams in the NHL you’ve come to the right place. Here we go:

Ottawa (7-1)– After goaltender Martin Gerber’s fantastic start to the season, a healthy Ray Emery may have to wait for his chance to see some action, now that his wrist has healed.  Nothing wrong with a little healthy competition for that starting goaltender’s spot, especially when your team’s offense is the best in the Eastern Conference.

Minnesota (5-0-1)– On a similar note, goalie Niklas Backstrom has been superb ever since he came over from Finland last year; yet if he ever needs a rest, backup netminder 23-year-old Josh Harding has posted three shutouts in his eight career starts.  Not bad for the youngster.

Detroit (5-2-1)– Somehow, someway, Detroit remains one of the elite teams year after year.  The ageless Dominik Hasek and Chris Chelios, combined with the dynamic duo in Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk have kept them at the top of the standings.

Philadelphia (5-1)– The one truly surprising team on this short list, the Flyers seem to have gotten their act together quickly after their embarrassing performance last year.  After losing his starting job in Buffalo a couple years ago, goalminder Martin Biron seems to have adapted quite well to his new home in Philly. Blame Canada?

Colorado (4-2)– Red hot forward Paul Stastny has carried his team early on with 13 points through the first six games.  After an impressive rookie season (28G 50A 78PTS), it seems as though the 21-year-old Stastny will steer clear of the sophomore slump.

There you have it.  The abridged power rankings.  Word.

Mo West

• ‹ previous
• 110 of 431
• next ›