The Puck drops on the 2013/14 NHL season tonight so let's take a look into the future and see what to expect, and a few story lines to watch out for.
Where are They Now?: One of the biggest story lines heading into the new season is undoubtedly divisional
realignment. Common sense, finally, prevailed and Detroit and Columbus were
moved to the Eastern Conference. There are now four Divisions, two in each
conference, instead of six and a revamped playoff format to promote divisional
rivalries. On the whole the moves will help fans see their team in a decent time slot
and ensure that teams will visit every city at least once a year. While many note that
there is an imbalance between the East and West, 16 teams vs. 14, this is just
whining for the sake of it. The top teams will still be there in the end.
Capital Pains? : The loss of long time captain Daniel Alfredsson to new division rival Detroit will usher in a
new era in the nations capital. Detroit also added Stephen Weiss from Florida and look to
make a serious run in the East. Ottawa however, should not be taken lightly. They are a
young team with a lot of energy and a lot to prove. Playing with a chip on their shoulder after
being slighted may be a very good motivator.
Have we met? : The Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers pulled off a coach swap, sort of. It wasn't
as if they traded them, but Alain Vinegault is now the boss in New York and John Tortorella
is now, loudly, calling the shots out west. Both teams failed to reach expectations last season
so it will be up to these men to turn them around.
Avalanche Warning: The Colorado Avalanche look to improve upon a dismal season with Patrick Roy now
taking over coaching duties. There should be no problem with players being to what is
expected of them from the fiery coach who looks to parlay his junior success into the
NHL. Helping him will be first overall pick Nathan McKinnon who will be expected to
add some scoring punch right away. The Avalanche have fallen a long way from the
glory days of Sakic and Roy, now these two look to lead them back to playoff glory.
Hybrid Icing: How it's called will be vital, but it's no doubt this will help prevent injuries that occur from what
is one of the most dangerous plays in the game and will help pick up the pace as well.
Stanley Cup: I think the Pittsburgh Penguins will finally get back to the top of the mountain. They have the
depth and skill, all they need is solid goaltending and I believe Marc-Andre Fleury can and will
bounce back from some less than stellar, Ok downright awful, playoff performances.
Who do you see taking home the big prize? What are you looking out for? As always, let me know...
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