The eighth and final playoff spot in both NHL conferences is up for grabs, and at this point it seems like nobody wants it. The Leafs continue to struggle after dropping a 2-1 decision to San Jose and barring an epic comeback from Tampa Bay will be passed by Winnipeg who are also chasing Florida for the Southeast division lead. Winnipeg could go from 9th to 3rd if the can catch the Panthers. It is also possibly that none of the southwest teams would be any better than 8th but because they won the division would be rewarded with home ice advantage. Any one of these teams could back into the playoffs with those around them playing so lousy. Also in the mix are the Capitals who have far and away the most talent and shouldn't be in this mess. but Dale Hunter finds his team struggling to find consistency and this weekend with games against Montreal Friday and Toronto Saturday will go a long way in determining the fortunes of these teams and what they do come the trade deadline on Monday.
Out West LA made a bold move acquiring Jeff Carter in an effort to propel them into the playoffs. The Coyotes, Stars, Flames and Avalanche are all in the hunt for the last two spots, and don't look know but the Anaheim Ducks are starting to gain momentum reminiscent of last years run into the post season and are right there with them. The amount of parody in the league is great and these races make for an incredibly exciting finish to the season. The fact is one team will have to step up and earn it in the west while in the east it looks like simply the best of a bad lot will be rewarded with a spot in the second season.
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