In the East Boston, New Jersey, Florida Did not see these three teams challenging for playoff spots this year. Many on this board think New Jersey will fade. I don't. Their game plan is very solid with players who know how to finish and a hot goalie in Schneider. The real eye opener is that there are 12 Eastern teams vying for 7 remaining playoff positions. Given how the Rangers played this past December, they have fallen back to the pack. Hopefully, they can rebound and separate themselves from the others. Is there a team capable of knocking off the Washington Capitals? I doubt it. Only injuries to key players will even out the ice rink. In the West Dallas The Stars took some giant strides with their early season success. Of late they have leveled off, but they are a definite playoff team. And the creme de la creme are rearing their usual playoff stand.......it's becoming old hat in the NHL West with the rise of the LA Kings and Chicago Blackhawks; If I were a betting man, I'd say one of these two teams will again be in The Stanley Cup Finals. Doesn't look like any team, maybe Dallas, will challenge these two teams in the West.
