Washington Capitals 2008-09 Outlook

WASHINGTON CAPITALS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Jose Theodore, G (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Colorado Avalanche)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Matt Cooke, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Penguins)
Steve Eminger, D (Traded to the Philadelphia Flyers)
Cristobal Huet, G (Signed as a free agent with the Chicago Blackhawks)
Olaf Kolzig, G (Signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Lightning)

2007-08 Season Finish: 1st Southeast Division, 3rd Eastern Conference, 94 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Lost 4-3 to the Philadelphia Flyers in Quarterfinals

2008-09 Prediction: 1st Southeast Division, 3rd Eastern Conference

The Washington Capitals were one of the most improved teams in the NHL during the 2007-08 season. After a slow start that saw the Capitals in last place in the Eastern Conference and the league in early November, Bruce Boudreau was brought in to replace Glen Hanlon as head coach. The Capitals had a strong finish to the season, just managing to squeeze past the Carolina Hurricanes for a playoff spot, and as a result, became the first team in NHL history to make the playoffs after being in last place in the league at any point during the same season. The Capitals figure to be a competitive team in the Eastern Conference during the 2008-09 season, especially with their highly talented offense. Alexander Ovechkin, one of the premier stars in the league, gives the Capitals lots of goal-scoring talent, offensive skills, and an excellent shot. Youngsters Alexander Semin and Nicklas Backstrom bring lots of offensive potential, passing skills, and goal-scoring talent. Michael Nylander and Viktor Kozlov provide the Capitals with plenty of veteran depth and offensive experience, while Sergei Fedorov gives the team a decent two-way forward with good offensive skills. Matt Bradley and Donald Brashear give the Capitals two physical forwards with lots of gritty play, while Chris Clark provides plenty of toughness and goal-scoring skills to the forward lines. Brooks Laich and Tomas Fleischmann give the team two offensively talented forwards who can score goals, while Boyd Gordon and Eric Fehr bring decent offensive depth to the Capitals. David Steckel and Quintin Laing also bring plenty of offensive depth and experience to the team. Prospects Chris Bourque, Francois Bouchard, and Oskar Osala will look to make the team at training camp on their fine offensive skills and potential. While the Capitals have plenty of young talent on offense, the addition of another veteran forward for depth could be beneficial to the team.

The Capitals defense did not change much over the summer, with the only departure being Steve Eminger via trade with Philadelphia, and should be just as competitive during the 2008-09 season as it was in 2007-08. Mike Green, who enjoyed a very productive season in 2007-08, is fast becoming the top player on the Capitals defense with his fine offensive skills and physical play. Tom Poti and Brian Pothier both provide plenty of offensive talent and toughness to the Capitals' defense, while Jeff Schultz brings plenty of offensive upside to the blueline. John Erskine gives the Capitals a rugged defenseman with lots of toughness, while Milan Jurcina brings plenty of defensive depth to the team's defense. The Capitals will likely see prospects Karl Alzner and Sami Lepisto vie for a roster spot at training camp on their fine offensive play. The addition of a veteran defenseman to the blueline could be beneficial to the Capitals young defensive corps.

The Capitals' goaltending changed completely following the 2008 playoffs, with trade deadline acquisition Cristobal Huet signing with Chicago and long-time starting goaltender Olaf Kolzig signing with Tampa Bay. Upon losing the two goaltenders, the Capitals immediately signed Jose Theodore via free agency. Theodore, who struggled during the 2006-07 season, greatly improved his game last season with the Colorado Avalanche. Theodore gives the Capitals solid depth and experience in goal. Brent Johnson, who was the Capitals' backup goaltender until the acquisition of Huet, will return as the backup for the 2008-09 season. Johnson gives the Capitals solid depth and veteran experience in goal. Prospects Simeon Varlamov and Michal Neuvirth could challenge Johnson for the backup role at training camp on their fine goaltending skills.

STRENGTHS

• Lots of talented young players on offense.
• Plenty of physical bodies on defense.
• Solid, experienced goaltending.

WEAKNESSES

• Could use a little more veteran depth on offense.
• Need more veteran depth on defense.

Vancouver Canucks 2008-09 Outlook

VANCOUVER CANUCKS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Nolan Baumgartner, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Dallas Stars)
Steve Bernier, RW (Acquired in a trade with the Buffalo Sabres)
Rob Davison, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the New York Islanders)
Pavol Demitra, C (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Minnesota Wild)
Darcy Hordichuk, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Carolina Hurricanes)
Ryan Johnson, C (Signed as a free agent, previously with the St. Louis Blues)
Kyle Wellwood, C (Claimed off waivers from the Toronto Maple Leafs)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Luc Bourdon, D (Deceased)
Brad Isbister, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Ottawa Senators)
Trevor Linden, C (Retired)
Aaron Miller, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Brendan Morrison, C (Signed as a free agent with the Anaheim Ducks)
Markus Naslund, LW (Signed as a free agent with the New York Rangers)
Byron Ritchie, C (Signed with HC Geneve-Servette of the Swiss National League)
Ryan Shannon, RW (Traded to the Ottawa Senators)
Mike Weaver, D (Signed as a free agent with the St. Louis Blues)

2007-08 Season Finish: 5th Northwest Division, 11th Western Conference, 88 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 5th Northwest Division, 13th Western Conference

After a late season collapse that saw the Vancouver Canucks miss the 2008 playoffs, it appear that changes to the team were imminent. Early in the summer, general manager Dave Nonis was fired and replaced by Mike Gillis. Shortly after free agency began, the Canucks saw the retirement of Trevor Linden and the departures of Brendan Morrison and Markus Naslund, depleting the team's already questionable offense. Heading into the off-season, the biggest need the Canucks had to address was the lack of scoring forwards and offensive depth. While the team was able to add a little offensive depth over the summer, the team is still in desperate need of some scoring forwards. Twins Daniel and Henrik Sedin remain the Canucks two best forwards. They bring lots of offensive skill, goal-scoring and passing talent, and depth to the team and they seem to get better every season. Newcomer Pavol Demitra, signed via free agency, gives the Canucks lots of offensive depth and skill, and could likely see his numbers increase if he plays on a line with the Sedins. Steve Bernier gives the Canucks a solid, young scorer with plenty of offensive promise, while Kyle Wellwood brings the Canucks a decent amount of offensive potential even though he is a bit susceptible to injury. Taylor Pyatt and Ryan Kesler both bring the Canucks a fair amount of offensive skill, goal-scoring talent, and toughness. Alex Burrows, Jeff Cowan, and newly acquired Darcy Hordichuk give the Canucks lots of toughness, physicality, and gritty play. Ryan Johnson and Matt Pettinger give the Canucks plenty of offensive and veteran depth, while Mason Raymond shows lots of offensive talent and potential. The Canucks have plenty of promising offensive prospects who will look to make the team at training camp, including Michael Grabner, Jason Jaffray, Rick Rypien, Juraj Simek, and Jannik Hansen, who played impressively for the Canucks during the 2007 playoffs.

The Canucks defense remains one of the strongest parts of the team, despite the tragic death of Luc Bourdon in a motorcycle accident back in June. Mattias Ohlund and Sami Salo both bring lots of offensive talent to the Canucks' blueline, while Ohlund also brings lots of physical play to the team's defense. Willie Mitchell and Kevin Bieksa both bring lots of hard-hitting play and physicality to the Canucks' blueline, while Lukas Krajicek gives the team decent defensive depth and toughness. Rob Davison gives the Canucks a physical presence on the blueline, while Nolan Baumgartner provides plenty of veteran depth. Also, look for youngster Alexander Edler to provide an offensive spark to the team's defense, as he has promising offensive skills. While the Canucks have promising defensive talent in prospects Nathan McIver, Patrick Coulombe, Taylor Ellington, Yann Sauve, and James Sharrow, they will all likely play the season in the minors given the Canucks depth on defense. With the number of physical bodies the team has on defense, they will likely be a physical team in the defensive zone during the 2008-09 season, but could use another offensive defenseman for depth and help on the power play.

The Canucks' goaltending will likely be the strongest part of the team for the 2008-09 season with Roberto Luongo set to return as the starting goaltender. Luongo is one of the most talented goaltenders in the league today and gives the Canucks lots of depth in goal. In a highly unusual and irregular move by team management, Luongo has been named captain of the Canucks. While the NHL allows goaltenders to be named team captains, they cannot act as team captains. Willie Mitchell has been designated the player who will deal with the officials on game nights in place of Luongo. Curtis Sanford will likely be the Canucks' backup goaltender for the 2008-09 season on his solid play and depth. However, promising goaltending prospect Cory Schneider could look to secure the backup role at training camp on his fine talent.

STRENGTHS

• Lots of physical players on defense.
• Solid depth in goal.

WEAKNESSES

• Lack solid scoring depth beyond their first line.
• Need more offense on defense.
• Could be forced to trade some of their minor league talent to improve their offense.

Toronto Maple Leafs 2008-09 Outlook

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Jeff Finger, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Colorado Avalanche)
Mikhail Grabovski, C (Acquired in a trade with the Montreal Canadiens)
Niklas Hagman, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Dallas Stars)
Ryan Hollweg, LW (Acquired in a trade with the New York Rangers)
Curtis Joseph, G (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Calgary Flames)
Jamal Mayers, RW (Acquired in a trade with the St. Louis Blues)
Mike Van Ryn, D (Acquired in a trade with the Florida Panthers)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Scott Clemmensen, G (Signed as a free agent with the New Jersey Devils)
Bryan McCabe, D (Traded to the Florida Panthers)
John Pohl, C (Signed with HC Lugano of the Swiss National League)
Andrew Raycroft, G (Contract bought out, Signed as a free agent with the Colorado Avalanche)
Mats Sundin, C (Unsigned Free Agent)
Darcy Tucker, RW (Contract bought out, Signed as a free agent with the Colorado Avalanche)
Kyle Wellwood, C (Claimed off waivers by the Vancouver Canucks)
Andy Wozniewski, D (Signed as a free agent with the St. Louis Blues)

2007-08 Season Finish: 5th Northeast Division, 12th Eastern Conference, 83 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 5th Northeast Division, 14th Eastern Conference

The Toronto Maple Leafs will be looking for their first playoff birth during the 2008-09 season since 2004. However, the team is currently going through a rebuild and is not likely to finish among the top teams in the league. The Maple Leafs unloaded several veteran players over the summer in an effort to get younger, with the most notable departure being Mats Sundin, who is contemplating retirement. If Sundin were to return to the Maple Leafs, the team would get a huge boost to their offense with his offensive talent, goal-scoring skills, and leadership. Even if Sundin does not return to Toronto, there are plenty of quality forwards ready to step up for the Maple Leafs. Nik Antropov, who had a career season in 2007-08, brings the team lots of offensive talent, two-way play, and toughness, and could figure to be one of the Maple Leafs top scorers for the 2008-09 season. Jason Blake, who struggled a bit last season, gives the Maple Leafs a quality scorer with plenty of offensive depth and will look to improve his play in the new season. Alexei Ponikarovky gives the team plenty of offensive depth and skill, while youngsters Jiri Tlusty and newly acquired Mikhail Grabovski provide the Maple Leafs with lots of offensive upside and talent. Niklas Hagman brings plenty of veteran depth and goal-scoring skills to the team, while Matt Stajan gives the Maple Leafs a capable two-way center. Alex Steen gives the team decent offensive talent and the potential to be a goal-scorer, while Dominic Moore brings good offensive depth and two-way talent. Ryan Hollweg, Ben Ondrus, Jamal Mayers, and Mark Bell all provide lots of toughness and gritty play to the Maple Leafs' checking lines. Bell, once a promising offensive player, has been in decline for the past couple of seasons and will miss about half of the 2008-09 season serving a jail sentence for drunken driving. Boyd Devereaux gives the Maple Leafs good, veteran depth, while Robbie Earl and Jeremy Williams give the team two promising offensive forwards. The Maple Leafs have several talented prospect forwards who will look to make the team at training camp on their fine offensive skills, including Darryl Boyce, Alex Foster, Brent Aubin, and Nikolai Kulemin. To improve their chances of making the playoffs in 2008-09, the Maple Leafs could look to add a couple of top-six forwards to their roster, especially if Mats Sundin does not return to the team.

The Maple Leafs lost a lot of offensive experience on their blueline after trading veteran Bryan McCabe to the Florida Panthers. However, McCabe was seen as expendable due to his high salary and management's desire to trim some payroll. Even with the departure of McCabe, the Maple Leafs still have plenty of talented defensemen. Tomas Kaberle gives the Maple Leafs a wealth of offensive talent on defense, as well as veteran depth and leadership, while Pavel Kubina also brings lots of offensive skill and toughness. Newcomer Mike Van Ryn, acquired from Florida in a trade, gives the team plenty of offensive skill on the blueline even though he is a bit prone to injury, while Jeff Finger brings the Maple Leafs toughness and some offensive potential. Youngster Anton Stralman gives the team a promising blueliner with plenty of skill, while Carlo Colaiacovo and Ian White bring lots of defensive depth to the Maple Leafs, though Colaiacovo, like Van Ryn, is a bit susceptible to injury. As with their offense, the Maple Leafs have several talented defensive prospects who will look to make the team at training camp, including Jonas Frogren, Staffan Kronwall, Jaime Sifers, and Luke Schenn. While Toronto has plenty of offensive defensemen on their blueline, the addition of a veteran defenseman or two for depth could be beneficial to the team.

Vesa Toskala returns as the Maple Leafs' starter for the second straight season. Toskala enjoyed a fine season in 2007-08 and played well for the team. Backup Andrew Raycroft, who struggled mightily last season, had his contract bought out early in the summer as was replaced with one-time Maple Leafs goaltender Curtis Joseph. The addition of Joseph gives the team plenty of veteran depth in goal and could easily jump into the starter's role if Toskala should struggle. However, Joseph's age could keep him from playing a lot of games during the 2008-09 season and he could face competition at training camp from prospect Justin Pogge.

STRENGTHS

• Good mix of veterans and young players on offense.
• Lots of offense of defense.
• Solid goaltending.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more goal-scorers on offense.
• Need more veteran and defensive depth on defense.
• Not a lot of high-caliber prospects in the minors.

Tampa Bay Lightning 2008-09 Outlook

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Brandon Bochenski, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Nashville Predators)
Matt Carle, D (Acquired in a trade with the San Jose Sharks)
Adam Hall, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Pittsburgh Penguins)
Andrew Hutchinson, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the New York Rangers)
David Koci, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Chicago Blackhawks)
Olaf Kolzig, G (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Washington Capitals)
Zenon Konopka, C (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Columbus Blue Jackets)
Ryan Malone, LW (Acquired in a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins)
Andrej Meszaros, D (Acquired in a trade with the Ottawa Senators)
Vaclav Prospal, LW (Acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers)
Mark Recchi, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Atlanta Thrashers)
Gary Roberts, LW (Acquired in a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins)
Radim Vrbata, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Phoenix Coyotes)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Dan Boyle, D (Traded to the San Jose Sharks)
Mathieu Darche, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Buffalo Sabres)
Marc Denis, G (Signed as a free agent with the Montreal Canadiens)
Andreas Karlsson, C (Signed a contract to play in Europe for the 2008-09 season)
Filip Kuba, D (Traded to the Ottawa Senators)
Brad Lukowich, D (Traded to the San Jose Sharks)
Craig MacDonald, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Columbus Blue Jackets)
Alexandre Picard, D (Traded to the Ottawa Senators)
Brian Rolston, RW (Acquired in a trade with the Minnesota Wild, later signed with New Jersey)
Andre Roy, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Calgary Flames)
Tim Taylor, C (Retired)

2007-08 Season Finish: 5th Southeast Division, 15th Eastern Conference, 71 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 3rd Southeast Division, 9th Eastern Conference

The Tampa Bay Lightning were probably the most active team when free agency began on July 1st. After finishing in last place in the league for the 2007-08 season, the team revamped itself on offense, defense, and goaltending in order to ice a more competitive team for the 2008-09 season. The Lightning's offense underwent the most changes, with many talented forwards brought in through free agency and trades. The two best forwards in Tampa Bay remain Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St. Louis. Lecavalier is one of the top forwards currently in the NHL, and he brings the Lightning lost of offensive skill and depth as well as lots of leadership and toughness. St. Louis gives the team plenty of offensive depth and goal-scoring skills. The Lightning signed one of the most coveted players on the free agent market this summer when they acquired the rights to Ryan Malone in a trade with Pittsburgh. Malone gives the Penguins lost of offensive depth and physical play. Returning to the team after a brief stint with Philadelphia is Vaclav Prospal, who brings excellent goal-scoring skills and veteran depth to the Lightning. Radim Vrbata provides the team with good offensive depth, while Jussi Jokinen gives the Lightning an excellent shooter, particularly in a shootout, and capable goal-scorer. Michel Ouellet brings plenty of offensive depth and toughness to the team, while veteran Mark Recchi brings lots of offensive talent, veteran depth, and leadership to the Lightning. Gary Roberts, Evgeny Artyukhin, Chris Gratton, David Koci, and Nick Tarnasky all give the team lots of physicality and gritty play, while Ryan Craig provides decent offensive skills and a bit of toughness. Adam Hall, Jeff Halpern, and Jason Ward all bring plenty of offensive depth and skill to the Lightning's checking lines. The Lightning have a few prospect forwards who could likely make the team at training camp. 2008 1st overall pick Steven Stamkos seems a sure bet to make the team, while Blair Jones and Brandon Segal may find it tough to make the team given the depth on offense. Given the Lightning's abundance of forwards, it's likely that several will be assigned to the minors to start the season, while a few could be used as trade bait to improve their defense.

While the Lightning stacked up on forwards during the summer, the team neglected to add veteran depth to their defense and decided to go with younger defensemen to build their blueline. Matt Carle and Andrej Meszaros were both added via trades at the cost of Dan Boyle, Brad Lukowich, and Filip Kuba. However, Carle brings decent offensive skills to Tampa Bay's blueline, while Meszaros also provides good offensive talent and a bit of toughness. Paul Ranger also gives the team a decent offensive blueliner with some physicality, while Shane O'Brien brings lots of toughness and gritty play to the team's defense. Mike Lundin and newcomer Andrew Hutchinson both provide the Lightning with decent defensive skills. Given the lack of defensive depth on Tampa Bay's blueline, prospects Vladimir Mihalik, Janne Niskala, and Matt Smaby could all have a good chance of making the team at training camp. With the team lacking veteran talent on their blueline, the logical choice for the Lightning would be to trade one or more of their excess forwards for defensive help. If Tampa Bay fails to land an experienced blueliner early in the season, the team will likely find itself struggling to keep goals out of the net.

To solidify their goaltending, the Lightning added veteran goalie Olaf Kolzig via free agency. Kolzig gives the team plenty of veteran depth and experience, those his age is starting to catch up with him as he struggled at times last season in Washington. Backing up Kolzig for the 2008-09 season will be Mike Smith. He gives the Lightning a solid backup and has plenty of promise to possibly be their starter. Prospects Karri Ramo and Riku Helenius could challenge Smith at training camp for the backup role, but both will likely spend the season in the minors given Smith's experience.

STRENGTHS

• Lots of quality depth offensively.
• Plenty of quality, young defensive talent.
• Solid depth in goal.

WEAKNESSES

• Have way too many forwards signed to NHL contracts.
• Lack experience on defense.
• Head coach Barry Melrose hasn't coached in some time.

St. Louis Blues 2008-09 Outlook

ST. LOUIS BLUES

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Matt Foy, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Minnesota Wild)
Chris Mason, G (Acquired in a trade with the Nashville Predators)
Mike Weaver, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Vancouver Canucks)
Brad Winchester, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Dallas Stars)
Andy Wozniewski, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Toronto Maple Leafs)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Mike Johnson, RW (Signed with Kolner Haie of Germany)
Ryan Johnson, C (Signed as a free agent with the Vancouver Canucks)
Jamal Mayers, RW (Traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs)
Martin Rucinsky, LW (Signed with HC Sparta Praha of the Czech Extra League)
Hannu Toivonen, G (Signed with Ilves Tampere of the SM-Liiga of Finland)
Matt Walker, D (Signed as a free agent with the Chicago Blackhawks)

2007-08 Season Finish: 5th Central Division, 14th Western Conference, 79 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 5th Central Division, 14th Western Conference

The St. Louis Blues have been a rebuilding team since the lockout ended in 2005. Rather than rebuild the team through veteran talent via free agency, the Blues are preferring to build their team with prospects. The Blues are not likely to be a playoff contending team next season, but with the growing young talent they have, could be a competitive team once again in a few years. Paul Kariya, one the Blues' top offensive players, brings the team lots of goal-scoring skills, offensive depth, and leadership, while veteran Keith Tkachuk provides the team with lots of toughness and offensive skills. Brad Boyes and Andy McDonald give the Blues two talented, goal-scoring forwards with good passing skills. Lee Stempniak and David Perron give the Blues two talented forwards with lots of offensive upside who will likely play for the team for years to come. David Backes brings lots of physicality and offensive talent to the Blues forward lines, while Jay McClement provides decent offensive depth. Dan Hinote, Cam Janssen, D.J. King, and Brad Winchester give the Blues three very tough and gritty forwards, while Matt Foy and Yan Stastny bring decent offensive depth. The Blues have several talented and promising prospect forwards who will look to make the team at training camp, including Patrik Berglund, T.J. Oshie, Lars Eller, and Tomas Kana. While the Blues have plenty of young forwards with lots of offensive talent, the addition of a few veteran forwards for depth could be beneficial to the team.

The Blues' defense suffered a huge loss as training camp opened with a knee injury to Erik Johnson that will likely see him miss the entire 2008-09 season. Johnson brings plenty of toughness and offensive skills to the blueline that will be sorely missed in the new season. Eric Brewer and Barret Jackman are two rugged defenseman who bring lots gritty play and defensive skills to the Blues' defense. Jay McKee and Mike Weaver bring lots of defensive depth and veteran talent to the blueline, while Jeff Woywitka and Andy Wozniewski give the Blues some decent defensive depth. With the injury to Johnson, 2008 first round draft pick Alex Pietrangelo could very well make the team. Pietrangelo plays with a good, physical edge and has lots of offensive upside. Prospects T.J. Fast, Roman Polak, and Steve Wagner will look to make the team at training camp on their fine defensive skills. As with their offense, the Blues have some decent young talent on their blueline, but the addition of a veteran defenseman or two, particularly and offensive defenseman, could significantly improve their defense.

Manny Legace had a decent season as the Blues' starting goaltender in 2007-08, but looked shaky at times. Hannu Toivonen, who had a very disappointing 2007-08 season, would have been Legace's backup for the 2008-09 season but opted to sign over in Finland and was replaced via trade with Chris Mason. Legace and Mason will likely share the goaltending duties for the 2008-09 season, unless one goaltender outshines the other. The Blues have decent goaltending depth with Legace and Mason and either one can easily step into the starters' role if the other should struggle or get sidelined with an injury.

STRENGTHS

• Plenty of good, prospect forwards.
• Lots of toughness on defense.
• Plenty of solid, veteran depth in goal.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more veteran players for depth on offense.
• Need more offense on defense.
• Could use more veteran players on defense.

San Jose Sharks 2008-09 Outlook

SAN JOSE SHARKS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Rob Blake, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Los Angeles Kings)
Dan Boyle, D (Acquired in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Brad Lukowich, D (Acquired in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Curtis Brown, C (Signed with Kloten Flyers of the Swiss National League)
Brian Campbell, D (Signed as a free agent with the Chicago Blackhawks)
Matt Carle, D (Traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Sandis Ozolinsh, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Patrick Rissmiller, LW (Signed as a free agent with the New York Rangers)
Craig Rivet, D (Traded to the Buffalo Sabres)
Alexei Semenov, D (Unsigned Free Agent, Invited to San Jose's Training Camp as a Tryout)

2007-08 Season Finish: 1st Pacific Division, 2nd Western Conference, 108 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Won 4-3 against the Calgary Flames in Quarterfinals
Lost 4-2 to the Dallas Stars in Semi-Finals

2008-09 Prediction: 1st Pacific Division, 2nd Western Conference

The San Jose Sharks enjoyed a late season surge in 2007-08, losing only two games after the trade deadline on February 26 and were among the favorites to win the Stanley Cup. However, the team struggled in the playoffs and was bounced in the second round by the Dallas Stars. After making some changes to the team during the off-season, mainly on defense, the Sharks look to be a better team than last season and could likely be among the favorites to win the Stanley Cup in 2008-09. Joe Thornton gives the Sharks one of the best playmakers and passers in the game. Coupled with his goal-scoring talent and toughness, Thornton is easily one of the most skilled players in the game. Jonathan Cheechoo, Milan Michalek, and Patrick Marleau give the Sharks three skilled goal-scorers with lots of offensive depth, though Marleau's offensive production has been in decline for the past few seasons. Joe Pavelski and Devin Setoguchi are quickly emerging as legitimate goal-scorers on the Sharks' offense and will likely be staples on the team's forward lines for years to come. Ryane Clowe and Torrey Mitchell give the Sharks two offensively talented forwards with a lot of toughness, though Mitchell is going to miss at least the next eight weeks with two broken bones in his lower left leg that he suffered during a training camp scrimmage. Jeremy Roenick, one of the most outspoken players in the league today, gives the team lots of leadership and offensive depth, while veteran Mike Grier brings lots of speed and talented two-way play to the team. Marcel Goc provides plenty of offensive depth for the Sharks, while Jody Shelley brings lots of rugged and gritty play to the team as an enforcer. The Sharks have plenty of talented, young forwards who will look to make the team at training camp on their fine offensive skills, including Logan Couture, Lukas Kaspar, Riley Armstrong, Tom Cavanagh, and Tomas Plihal, who is currently on a training camp tryout. While the Sharks have plenty of young, offensive talent on their forward lines, the addition of a veteran forward or two for depth could be beneficial to the team come playoff time.

The Sharks saw several changes made on their defense during the first few days of free agency, including the departure of the highly skilled Brian Campbell. To replace Campbell and address the need for an offensive defenseman, the Sharks acquired Dan Boyle in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Boyle brings the Sharks lots of offensive skill and depth on the blueline, especially on the power play. The Sharks defense also got a lot tougher with the addition of Rob Blake via free agency. Blake gives the Sharks lots of leadership, defensive depth, and physical play on defense. Kyle McLaren and Doug Murray also give the Sharks two gritty and rugged defensemen. Brad Lukowich provides the team with plenty of defensive depth, while Christian Ehrhoff and Marc-Edouard Vlasic give the Sharks rising offensive potential on the blueline. Prospects Nick Petrecki and Derek Joslin could look to earn a roster spot at training camp on their fine defensive talent. While the Sharks have plenty of physical bodies on the blueline, the addition of another offensive defenseman could prove beneficial to the team.

Evgeni Nabokov enjoyed a career season in 2007-08 as the Sharks starting goaltender and will look to have another fine season in 2008-09. One of the top goaltenders in the league, Nabokov is a very talented and solid goaltender that's tough to beat. Brian Boucher, signed late last season for depth going into the playoffs, enjoyed a fine performance in the few games he played. He was resigned over the summer to be the Sharks backup goaltender for the 2008-09 season. Boucher is a solid netminder who could easily take over as the starter for Nabokov if he should struggle or suffer a lengthy injury during the 2008-09 season.

STRENGTHS

• Plenty of quality goal-scorers on offense.
• Very physical defense with plenty of veteran depth.
• Solid goaltending.

WEAKNESSES

• Could use another veteran forward or two for depth.
• Could use a bit more offense on defense.

Pittsburgh Penguins 2008-09 Outlook

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Matt Cooke, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Washington Capitals)
Ruslan Fedotenko, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the New York Islanders)
Eric Godard, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Calgary Flames)
Danny Richmond, D (Acquired in a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks)
Miroslav Satan, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the New York Islanders)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Ty Conklin, G (Signed as a free agent with the Detroit Red Wings)
Adam Hall, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Marian Hossa, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Detroit Red Wings)
Georges Laraque, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Montreal Canadiens)
Ryan Malone, LW (Traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Gary Roberts, LW (Traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Jarkko Ruutu, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Ottawa Senators)

2007-08 Season Finish: 1st Atlantic Division, 2nd Eastern Conference, 102 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Won 4-0 against the Ottawa Senators in Quarterfinals
Won 4-1 against the New York Rangers in Semi-Finals
Won 4-1 against the Philadelphia Flyers in Eastern Conference Finals
Lost 4-2 to the Detroit Red Wings in Stanley Cup Finals

2008-09 Prediction: 3rd Atlantic Division, 5th Eastern Conference

The Pittsburgh Penguins enjoyed a fine performance in the 2008 playoffs, but were unable to defeat the more experienced Detroit Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Finals. As free agency approached this past July, many of the players central to the team’s playoff success were eligible for unrestricted free agency and Penguins lacked the salary cap space to retain them all. The Penguins managed to keep unrestricted free agents Brooks Orpik, Pascal Dupuis, Mark Eaton, and Jeff Taffe, and resigned restricted free agents Evgeni Malkin and Marc-Andre Fleury to long-term extensions. The team was unsuccessful in retaining Marian Hossa, Ryan Malone, Gary Roberts, Georges Laraque, Jarkko Ruutu, Adam Hall, and Ty Conklin. The Penguins were able to find suitable replacements for most of the departed players, and should still have a competitive team on the ice for the 2008-09 season. Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin remain the Penguins two best forwards, as well as among the two most talented players in the NHL. Crosby brings the Penguins superb passing skills, fantastic vision on the ice, and a great goal-scoring ability, while Malkin gives the team outstanding offensive skills and a terrific goal-scoring ability as well. Petr Sykora gives the Penguins excellent offensive talent and veteran depth, while Jordan Staal brings decent goal-scoring skills and toughness to the forward lines. To make up for the offensive skills lost with the departure of Hossa, the Penguins signed Miroslav Satan via free agency. The team is hoping that Satan’s goal-scoring talent and offensive depth will be able to match that of Hossa. Pittsburgh is also hoping that newly acquired Ruslan Fedotenko will be able to contribute the same offensive numbers that some of the other departed players put up last season. Maxime Talbot and Tyler Kennedy had fine seasons in 2007-08 and will look to improve on their offensive skills in 2008-09. Pascal Dupuis gives the Penguins a decent, checking line forward, especially when killing penalties, while Jeff Taffe gives the team decent offensive depth on the checking lines as well. Newcomers Matt Cooke and Eric Godard give the Penguins lots of toughness and gritty play, while the latter will look to fill the enforcer’s role last held by the departed Georges Laraque. Prospects Keven Veilleux, Ryan Stone, Chris Minard, Dustin Jeffrey, and Connor James will all look to make the team on their fine offensive talent. While the Penguins should have no problems with their offensive play in the new season, the addition of another scoring forward could be beneficial to the team, especially if Satan and Fedotenko can produce the desired numbers.

The Penguins saw little change to their defense over the summer, which will likely be as competitive as it was last season. The team got some bad news recently with Sergei Gonchar being sidelined indefinitely with a dislocated shoulder. His offensive skills will be sorely missed, especially on the power play. The Penguins will likely look to within to replace Gonchar, possibly with Kris Letang or even Alex Goligoski. Letang and Goligoski have decent offensive skills, but will have to improve them significantly to fill Gonchar’s shoes. Ryan Whitney could be another option to replace Gonchar, as he has decent offensive talent as well. Hal Gill and Brooks Orpik give the Penguins two hard hitting and physical defensemen who are not afraid to mix it up with the opposition. Darryl Sydor, Mark Eaton, and Rob Scuderi all give the Penguins decent defensive depth and talent on the blueline. Prospects Paul Bissonnette and Danny Richmond will look to make the team at training camp on their toughness and gritty play.

Marc-Andre Fleury and Dany Sabourin will be the goaltending tandem for the Penguins during the 2008-09 season. Fleury enjoyed a fine season in 2007-08 and will look to do so again during the new season. Sabourin, who saw some action last season as the backup to Ty Conklin when Fleury was injured, is a very capable backup for the Penguins. His fine play from last season will likely carry over into the new season.

STRENGTHS

• Very strong team offensively.
• Lots of defensive depth.
• Strong goaltending.

WEAKNESSES

• Could use another goal-scoring forward.
• Need more offense on defense.

Phoenix Coyotes 2008-09 Outlook

PHOENIX COYOTES

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Todd Fedoruk, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Minnesota Wild)
David Hale, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Calgary Flames)
Jeff Hoggan, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Boston Bruins)
Olli Jokinen, C (Acquired in a trade with the Florida Panthers)
Brian McGrattan, RW (Acquired in a trade with the Ottawa Senators)
Garth Murray, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Florida Panthers)
Kurt Sauer, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Colorado Avalanche)

NOTABLE LOSSES
David Aebischer, G (Signed with HC Lugano of the Swiss National League)
Keith Ballard, D (Traded to the Florida Panthers)
Brendan Bell, D (Signed as a free agent with the Ottawa Senators)
Nick Boynton, D (Traded to the Florida Panthers)
Marcel Hossa, LW (Signed with Dynamo Riga of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Niko Kapanen, C (Signed with Ak Bars Kazan of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Mathias Tjarnqvist, LW (Signed with Rogle BK of the Swedish Elite League)
Radim Vrbata, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Craig Weller, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Minnesota Wild)
Blake Wheeler, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Boston Bruins)
Mike York, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Columbus Blue Jackets)

2007-08 Season Finish: 4th Pacific Division, 12 Western Conference, 83 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 4th Pacific Division, 11th Western Conference

The Phoenix Coyotes have been a rebuilding team for the last few seasons, opting to rebuild through their prospects instead of free agency. The Coyotes have drafted several quality players who will help make the team more competitive, though it still could take a few seasons as these players gradually improve. The team greatly improved their offense over the summer by acquiring Olli Jokinen in a trade. Jokinen brings much needed offensive experience and leadership to the young Coyotes team. Team captain Shane Doan provides lots of toughness and offensive skills to the team, while Steven Reinprecht brings good vision, passing skills, and depth to the forward lines. Young forwards Peter Mueller, Kyle Turris, and Martin Hanzal will look to improve upon their impressive seasons in 2007-08 and will likely be among the Coyotes' high scorers during 2008-09. The Coyotes will have lots of toughness on their forward lines this season. Daniel Carcillo and newcomers Todd Fedoruk, Brian McGrattan, Jeff Hoggan, and Garth Murray give the Coyotes some of the most aggressive forwards in the Western Conference and will ensure that their young players get lots of protection on the ice. Enver Lisin, Daniel Winnik, and Joel Perrault will also give the Coyotes plenty of offensive depth on their checking lines next season. The Coyotes have plenty of talented prospects who will look to earn roster spots on the team at training camp, including Kevin Porter, Brett MacLean, Mikkel Boedker, and Viktor Tikhonov. While the Coyotes have lots of promising, young players on the team, the addition of a veteran forward or two for depth could be beneficial to the team.

The acquisition of Olli Jokinen cost the Coyotes the services of promising Keith Ballard and veteran Nick Boynton, but the team still has plenty of quality defensemen for the upcoming season. Ed Jovanovski and Derek Morris bring lots of offensive skill, veteran leadership, and toughness to the Coyotes defense. Kurt Sauer gives the Coyotes a physical and gritty player on the blueline, while Zbynek Michalek and David Hale provide the team with decent defensive depth. Youngsters Keith Yandle and Matt Jones provide the Coyotes with lots of promising offensive talent and defensive skills, respectively. Prospects Jonas Ahnelov, Nick Ross, and Sean Zimmerman will look to make the team at training camp on their promising defensive talent.

Ilya Bryzgalov begins his first full season as the Coyotes' starting goaltender and will look to have a fine season in 2008-09. The Coyotes' improved their play after acquiring Bryzgalov off waivers from Anaheim last season, showing more confidence on the ice with an experienced goalie in net. Mikael Tellqvist will likely be the backup for the Coyotes this season. His fine goaltending skills make him a good choice for the backup role. Al Montoya, who tried unsuccessfully for years to crack the New York Rangers lineup with his goaltending talent, could challenge Tellqvist for the backup role at training camp.

STRENGTHS

• Lots of promising, young offensive talent.
• Very physical team at both ends of the ice.
• Capable and experienced goaltending.

WEAKNESSES

• Could use another veteran forward or two for depth.
• Need more offense on defense.

Philadelphia Flyers 2008-09 Outlook

PHILADELPHIA FLYERS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Arron Asham, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the New Jersey Devils)
Jean-Sebastien Aubin, G (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Anaheim Ducks)
Steve Eminger, D (Acquired in a trade with the Washington Capitals)
Glen Metropolit, C (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Boston Bruins)
Ossi Vaananen, D (Signed as a free agent, previously playing in Europe)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Jesse Boulerice, RW (Unsigned Free Agent)
Jim Dowd, C (Unsigned Free Agent)
Rory Fitzpatrick, D (Signed as a free agent with the Florida Panthers)
Denis Gauthier, D (Traded to the Los Angeles Kings)
Triston Grant, LW (Traded to the Nashville Predators)
Sami Kapanen, RW (Retired)
Jaroslav Modry, D (Will Play in Europe for 2008-09 Season)
Vaclav Prospal, LW (Traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Jason Smith, D (Signed as a free agent with the Ottawa Senators)
Patrick Thoresen, LW (Will Play in Europe for 2008-09 Season)
R.J. Umberger, RW (Traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets)

2007-08 Season Finish: 4th Atlantic Division, 6th Eastern Conference, 95 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Won 4-3 against the Washington Capitals in Quarterfinals
Won 4-1 against the Montreal Canadiens in Semi-Finals
Lost 4-1 to the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Eastern Conference Finals

2008-09 Prediction: 4th Atlantic Division, 8th Eastern Conference

After finishing among the worst teams in the NHL in 2006-07, the Philadelphia Flyers had a complete turn-around in 2007-08, making it all the way to the Eastern Conference finals before being ousted by the Pittsburgh Penguins. While the Flyers lost a few of their players who were instrumental in getting the team to the third round of the 2008 playoffs, the Flyers still have a quality team set for the 2008-09 season. Mike Richards is quickly becoming the top player on the Flyers' roster. His superb offensive talent, toughness, and rising leadership skills will be valuable to the team for years to come. Jeff Carter is also fast becoming an elite player on the Flyers' team. His goal-scoring ability and offensive skills make him a vital part of the Flyers' offense. Simon Gagne and Daniel Briere bring lots of offensive skill, veteran depth, and goal-scoring talent to the team. Mike Knuble and Scott Hartnell bring plenty of toughness, veteran depth, and goal-scoring talent to the forward lines, while Joffrey Lupul provides lots of offensive depth. Arron Asham, Steve Downie, and Riley Cote give the Flyers three rugged and gritty forwards for their checking lines, while Scottie Upshall brings lots of toughness to these lines. Newcomer Glen Metropolit gives the Flyers a decent two-way forward for their checking lines as well. The Flyers have plenty of talented prospects who will look to make the team at training camp. Claude Giroux, James van Riemsdyk, and Andreas Nodl will look to make the team with their offensive talent, while Matt Clackson will look to crack the lineup with his rugged play.

The Flyers' defense looks to be as competitive next season as it was last season despite the loss of some veteran defensemen. Kimmo Timonen brings a wealth of offensive experience and skill to the Flyers' defense, while Randy Jones brings offensive promise to the blueline. Braydon Coburn and Ossi Vaananen bring lots of toughness and rugged play to the Flyers' defense, while newcomer Steve Eminger gives the team plenty of defensive depth. With Mike Rathje and Derian Hatcher on injured reserve, Ryan Parent and Lasse Kukkonen will likely see more playing time throughout the season. Prospects Kevin Marshall and Luca Sbisa could also get an opportunity to make the team at training camp given the injuries to the Flyers' blueline. However, the Flyers could choose to look to the remaining free agents or the trade market to acquire a defenseman to replace Hatcher and Rathje. If the team chooses this option, they should look to acquire an offensive defenseman, as they could use more offense on the blueline.

The Flyers will go with Martin Biron and Antero Niittymaki as their goaltending tandem this season. Biron had a solid season with the Flyers in 2007-08 and will likely do so again in 2008-09. Niittymaki is solid backup to Biron and also has plenty of experience. Niittymaki will miss the start of the season due to an injury, so newcomer Jean-Sebastien Aubin will fill in as the backup until he returns. Aubin, a solid backup, will likely play in the minors when Niittymaki returns from injury.

STRENGTHS

• Lots of goal-scoring talent on offense.
• Plenty of physical defensemen.
• Solid goaltending.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more offense on defense.
• Operating close to the salary cap forces the team to sacrifice roster players to add depth to other areas.

Ottawa Senators 2008-09 Outlook

OTTAWA SENATORS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Alex Auld, G (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Boston Bruins)
Brendan Bell, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Phoenix Coyotes)
Brad Isbister, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Vancouver Canucks)
Filip Kuba, D (Acquired in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Alexandre Picard, D (Acquired in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Jarkko Ruutu, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Pittsburgh Penguins)
Ryan Shannon, RW (Acquired in a trade with the Vancouver Canucks)
Jason Smith, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Philadelphia Flyers)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Mike Commodore, D (Signed as a free agent with the Columbus Blue Jackets)
Ray Emery, G (Buyout, later signed with Europe)
Martin Lapointe, RW (Unsigned Free Agent)
Brian McGrattan, RW (Traded to the Phoenix Coyotes)
Andrej Meszaros, D (Traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Wade Redden, D (Signed as a free agent with the New York Rangers)
Luke Richardson, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Randy Robitaille, C (Unsigned Free Agent)
Cory Stillman, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Florida Panthers)

2007-08 Season Finish: 2nd Northeast Division, 7th Eastern Conference, 94 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Lost 4-0 to the Pittsburgh Penguins in Quarterfinals

2008-09 Prediction: 4th Northeast Division, 12th Eastern Conference

The Ottawa Senators started the 2007-08 season very strongly and played well during the first half of the season. During the second half of the season, the team's play started to deteriorate, due largely to Ray Emery's distracting temper tantrums and off-ice antics. At one point near the end of the season, the Senators were in danger of losing a playoff spot, but were able to hang on and secure the 7th spot. After their disappointing sweep in the first round of the playoffs at the hands of the Pittsburgh Penguins, changes to the team were imminent. Ray Emery's contract was bought out, Craig Hartsburg was brought in as head coach, and several players were let go via free agency. Due to the high salaries of several returning players, the Senators were only able to bring in affordable depth via free agency and will likely rebuild the team through prospects. The Senators' top line of Daniel Alfredsson, Dany Heatley, and Jason Spezza returns for the 2008-09 season, and will once again likely be one of the top offensive lines in the NHL. Alfredsson brings lots of veteran leadership and offensive experience to the team, while Heatley and Spezza give the Senators lots of goal-scoring talent and offensive prowess. Antoine Vermette and Chris Kelly bring lots of offensive talent to the team, while Mike Fisher brings lots of veteran depth and two-way play to the Senators' forward lines. Dean McAmmond and Brad Isbister give the Senators lots of veteran depth and offensive experience on the checking lines, while Nick Foligno and Ryan Shannon provide lots of promising talent on these lines. Chris Neil, Shean Donovan, and newcomer Jarkko Ruutu give the Senators lots of toughness and gritty play on their forward lines. Cody Bass and Josh Hennessy got their first tastes of NHL action last season and will look to bring their offensive talent to the Senators forward lines in 2008-09. Prospects Jesse Winchester, Danny Bois, Ilya Zubov, and Alexander Nikulin will look to make the team at training camp on their offensive skills. The Senators could be in the hunt for more scoring forwards as the new season approaches, as they lack any quality scorers beyond Alfredsson, Heatley, Spezza, Vermette, and Fisher. If no quality forwards can be had by trade, they may have to look at the few remaining quality veteran forwards left on the free agent market.

The Seantors defense took a bit of a hit with the departures of Wade Redden, Andrej Meszaros, and Mike Commodore, but were able to find adequate replacements via trade and free agency. Newcomers Filip Kuba and Alexandre Picard, both acquired via trade from Tampa Bay, bring the Senators decent offensive skills and depth on defense. Free agent acquisitions Jason Smith and Brendan Bell bring lots of toughness and offensive promise, respectively, to the team. Chris Phillips brings lots of veteran depth, offensive skill, and leadership to the Senators blueline. Christoph Schubert gives the Senators lots of offensive talent and toughness, while Anton Volchenkov brings lots of defensive skill and ruggedness. The Senators could see prospects Tomas Kudelka and Brian Lee vie for positions on the blueline at training camp with their fine defensive talent. The Senators could use more veteran depth on their blueline, and have invited Luke Richardson to training camp for that reason. If Richardson fails to make the team, they could turn to other unsigned veteran defensemen.

With the departure of Ray Emery, Martin Gerber will be called upon to be the starting goaltender. Gerber struggled a bit in his first season with Ottawa in 2006-07, but improved his play greatly in 2007-08. His decent goaltending skills make him a good choice as the Senators' starter. Alex Auld will likely be the backup goaltender next season and could be elevated to the starter's role if Gerber should struggle. Auld showed plenty of promise when he first entered the league with Vancouver, but has jumped around the league a bit that last few seasons. While the other teams he played for never gave him enough of a chance to prove himself, the Senators appear willing to give Auld a chance to hone his skills. If Auld should struggle, prospects Jeff Glass and Brian Elliott could be adequate replacements for the backup role, as they have plenty of promise.

STRENGTHS

• Have one of the top scoring forward lines in the NHL.
• Plenty of rugged players could give the team an edge in physical contests.
• Plenty of young, offensive talent.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more quality scoring forwards.
• Need more offense on their defense.
• Need more veteran players on defense.

New York Rangers 2008-09 Outlook

NEW YORK RANGERS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Dan Fritsche, C (Acquired in a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets)
Dmitri Kalinin, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Buffalo Sabres)
Markus Naslund, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Vancouver Canucks)
Wade Redden, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Ottawa Senators)
Patrick Rissmiller, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the San Jose Sharks)
Aaron Voros, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Minnesota Wild)
Nikolai Zherdev, RW (Acquired in a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Sean Avery, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Dallas Stars)
Christian Backman, D (Traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets)
Josh Gratton, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Nashville Predators)
Ryan Hollweg, LW (Traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs)
Jaromir Jagr, RW (Signed with Avangard Omsk of the Kontinental Hockey League)
David LeNeveu, G (Signed as a free agent with the Anaheim Ducks)
Marek Malik, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Brendan Shanahan, RW (Unsigned Free Agent)
Martin Straka, C (Signed with HC Plzen of the Czech Extra League)
Jason Strudwick, D (Signed as a free agent with the Edmonton Oilers)
Fedor Tyutin, D (Traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets)

2007-08 Season Finish: 3rd Atlantic Division, 5th Eastern Conference, 97 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Won 4-1 against the New Jersey Devils in Quarterfinals
Lost 4-1 to the Pittsburgh Penguins in Semi-Finals

2008-09 Prediction: 1st Atlantic Division, 2nd Eastern Conference

The New York Rangers were one of the busiest teams during the off-season, revamping their roster through a series of trades and free agent signings. Perhaps the Rangers' biggest loss over the summer was the departure of Jaromir Jagr to the Kontinental Hockey League. To replace Jagr, the Rangers immediately signed long-time Vancouver Canuck forward Markus Naslund via free agency. Naslund brings a wealth of veteran leadership and offensive depth to the team's forward lines. Returning forwards Scott Gomez and Chris Drury give the Rangers a lot of goal-scoring talent and offensive depth. Looking to add another scoring forward to their lineup, the Rangers acquired Nikolai Zherdev from the Columbus Blue Jackets. Zherdev gives the Rangers another solid scorer and plenty of offensive talent. Nigel Dawes, coming off of an impressive rookie season in 2007-08, could likely land a top-six role this season with his fine offensive talent. Brandon Dubinsky enjoyed a decent rookie season in 2007-08 as well with his offensive skills and toughness. Petr Prucha, who struggled offensively last season, will likely see playing time on the checking lines, where he can provide some decent offensive depth, while Dan Fritsche, acquired from Columbus via trade, brings the Rangers good offensive depth. Colton Orr and newcomers Patrick Rissmiller and Aaron Voros give the Rangers lots of toughness and grittiness, while Ryan Callahan and Blair Betts both bring decent offensive depth to the Rangers checking lines. The Rangers have lots of prospects who will look to make the team at training camp with their fine offensive talent, including Lauri Korpikoski, Greg Moore, Alexei Cherepanov, Artem Anisimov, and Hugh Jessiman. The Rangers are still looking for another top-six forward and are rumored to be interested in Mats Sundin, though they would have to dump considerable salary in order to sign him, as they are currently close to the salary cap. Brendan Shanahan has expressed interest in returning to the Rangers, and the team could sign him if Sundin remains undecided on his future in the coming weeks.

The Rangers defense got a lot stronger over the summer with the acquisitions of Wade Redden and Dmitri Kalinin via free agency. Redden brings lots of offensive experience and veteran depth to the team, while Kalinin too brings offensive depth and experience. Michal Roszival provides the Rangers' defense with lots of offensive skill and toughness, while Dan Girardi brings good offensive depth to the blueline. Paul Mara and Marc Staal both provide good defensive depth and plenty of toughness to the team's defense. Prospects Bobby Sanguinetti and Corey Potter will look to make the team at training camp, but could likely spend most of the season in the minors given the Rangers' depth on defense. While the Rangers' blueline is loaded with offensive talent, the acquisition of a physical defenseman could be beneficial to the team.

The Rangers' goaltending was the only part of the team that did not get a facelift over the summer, as Henrik Lundqvist and Stephen Valiquette return as the goaltending tandem. Lundqvist, who is quickly becoming one of the elite goaltenders in the NHL, had a fine season in 2007-08 and will likely improve his play in 2008-09. Valiquette played decently last season when called upon to replace Lundqvist despite his lack of experience. It's likely Valiquette will not play many games next season, but is still a suitable backup goaltender for the team.

STRENGTHS

• Have plenty of quality, goal-scoring forwards.
• Lots of offense on defense.
• Have a very solid and strong starting goaltender in Lundqvist.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more physical bodies on defense.
• Could use a more experienced backup goaltender.

New York Islanders 2008-09 Outlook

NEW YORK ISLANDERS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Mark Streit, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Montreal Canadiens)
Doug Weight, C (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Anaheim Ducks)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Shawn Bates, C (Buyout)
Bryan Berard, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Rob Davison, D (Signed as a free agent with the Vancouver Canucks)
Wade Dubielewicz, G (Signed with Ak Bars Kazan of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Ruslan Fedotenko, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Penguins)
Aaron Johnson, D (Signed as a free agent with the Chicago Blackhawks)
Miroslav Satan, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Penguins)
Josef Vasicek, C (Signed with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl of the Kontinental Hockey League)

2007-08 Season Finish: 5th Atlantic Division, 13th Eastern Conference, 79 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 5th Atlantic Division, 13th Eastern Conference

After barely making the playoffs in 2006 and missing them in 2007, the Islanders are in the midst of rebuilding their team with youth. The Islanders, who have struggled to ice a quality team over the past 15 years, will likely finish near the bottom of the league for the 2008-09 season. Even though the Islanders will probably not be a competitive team next season, they still have some decent players on their team. On offense, Mike Comrie is likely their strongest asset. He brings plenty of offensive depth and skill to a rebuilding Islanders team. Bill Guerin provides the Islanders with lots of leadership, veteran depth, and goal-scoring talent, while veteran Doug Weight brings lots of offensive depth and skill to the team's forward lines. Trent Hunter brings the Islanders plenty of goal-scoring experience, while veterans Mike Sillinger and Richard Park provide lots of veteran depth to the team. Sean Bergenheim, Andy Hilbert, and Jon Sim give the Islanders decent offensive depth with their toughness and two-way play. Last season's newcomers Kyle Okposo, Frans Nielsen, and Blake Comeau could likely see roster spots on the Islanders' top forward lines with their offensive talent and potential, especially Okposo, who is projected to be a physical, scoring forward. The Islanders have plenty of young, offensive talent who will look to secure roster spots on the 4th line, or possibly better, at training camp, including Sean Bentivoglio, Jeremy Colliton, Ben Walter, and Jesse Joensuu. While the Islanders are in rebuild mode and are doing so through their prospects, the addition of a few scoring forwards would be very beneficial to the team, especially if they have any hopes of making the playoffs.

The Islanders' defense got a bit stronger over the summer with the acquisition of Mark Streit via free agency. Streit brings the Islanders' defense lots of offensive skill and depth. Brendan Witt and Andy Sutton provide the team's blueline with lots of toughness and gritty play. Radek Martinek, Freddy Meyer, Chris Campoli, and Bruno Gervais all bring the Islanders lots of defensive depth and experience, which should be vital to their penalty kill. Prospects Jack Hillen and Brett Skinner will look to challenge these four players for roster spots on the blueline at training camp. While Streit gives the Islanders much needed talent on defense, the addition of another offensive defenseman or two could really improve the team defensively and on the power play.

Rick DiPietro returns once again as the Islanders' starting goaltender for the 2008-09 season. A talented player with excellent skills, DiPietro is a solid goalie who will be a mainstay in the Islanders' net for years to come, especially with his current 15 year contract. The backup goaltender for the Islanders next season will likely be Yann Danis, signed as a free agent over the summer for depth. However, Joey MacDonald or Peter Mannino could win the backup role at training camp with solid goaltending skills.

STRENGTHS

• Plenty of good offensive prospects.
• Solid starting goaltender in Rick DiPietro.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more offensively skilled veteran forwards.
• Need more offense on defense.
• Lack an experienced backup goaltender.

New Jersey Devils 2008-09 Outlook

NEW JERSEY DEVILS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Scott Clemmensen, G (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Toronto Maple Leafs)
Fedor Fedorov, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously playing in Europe)
Bobby Holik, C (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Atlanta Thrashers)
Brian Rolston, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Minnesota Wild)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Arron Asham, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Philadelphia Flyers)
Sergei Brylin, LW (Signed with SKA St. Petersburg of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Richard Matvichuk, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Karel Rachunek, D (Signed with Dynamo Moscow of the Kontinental Hockey League)

2007-08 Season Finish: 2nd Atlantic Division, 4th Eastern Conference
2007-08 Playoffs: Lost 4-1 to the New York Rangers in Quarterfinals

2008-09 Prediction: 2nd Atlantic Division, 4th Eastern Conference

The New Jersey Devils have been one of the top teams in the NHL since winning their first Stanley Cup in 1995. Over the last 13 years, the club has been able to ice quality teams with a good mix of talented veterans and quality prospects. The Devils' offense has consisted of quality scorers over the last decade, and the 2008-09 season will be no exception. Zach Parise is fast becoming an offensive force in the NHL and has yet to hit his potential. His superb offensive talent and goal-scoring ability will vital to the success of the Devils in the future. Longtime Devils Brian Gionta and Patrik Elias provide the team with lots of veteran depth, offensive skill, and goal-scoring talent. The Devils brought back a couple of former players over the summer to add depth to their offense. Brian Rolston and Bobby Holik bring the team plenty of offensive and veteran depth. Dainius Zubrus and team captain Jamie Langenbrunner provide lots of offensive experience and goal-scoring depth to the Devils' roster as well. John Madden and Jay Pandolfo bring lots of valuable two-way play to the team, especially on the penalty kill, while Travis Zajac provides the Devils with rising offensive skills, especially on the power play. David Clarkson and Mike Rupp provide the team with lots of grit and toughness on the checking lines, while Rod Pelley and Fedor Fedorov bring decent offensive depth. The Devils have plenty of quality offensive prospects in Nicklas Bergfors, Nick Palmieri, Kevin Cormier, and Petr Vrana, though it's likely these forwards will play most of the 2008-09 season in the minors given the team's talented, veteran depth.

The Devils' defense took a hit last summer with the departure of Brian Rafalski, but their blueline still contains plenty of quality players. Colin White brings lots of toughness and veteran experience to the team's defense, while Paul Martin's offensive skills on the blueline are quickly on the rise. Johnny Oduya is also quickly becoming one of the Devil's top offensive defensemen, while veteran Bryce Salvador brings lots of grittiness and rugged play to the blueline. Sheldon Brookbank also brings lots of toughness to the team, while Andy Greene and Mike Mottau provide plenty of defensive depth. With Vitaly Vishnevski being assigned to Russia to free up salary cap space, the Devils could see a couple of prospects vie for spots on the blueline at training camp. Matthew Corrente and Mark Fraser will look to make the team on their talented defensive play. While the Devils have plenty of physical defensemen on their blueline, the addition of an offensive defenseman could be beneficial to the team, especially on the power play.

Future hall-of-famer Martin Brodeur will likely steal the show once again for the Devils during the 2008-09 season. He has been one of most consistent and talented goaltenders of all time, and seems to get better every season despite his age. Brodeur will likely play nearly every game once again for the Devils this season, who shows no signs of wearing down. Veterans Kevin Weekes and Scott Clemmensen will likely battle for the backup role at training camp, though neither will likely see much play during the 2008-09 season. Prospect Jeff Frazee could challenge both veterans for the backup role at training camp with his fine goaltending skills.

STRENGTHS

• Very deep and talented offense contains a good mixture of veterans and youngsters.
• Plenty of rugged and gritty defensemen.
• Have one of the strongest and most consistent goaltenders in the league.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more offense on defense.
• Team tends to struggle when playoff time arrives.

Nashville Predators 2008-09 Outlook

NASHVILLE PREDATORS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Triston Grant, LW (Acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers)
Josh Gratton, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the New York Rangers)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Brandon Bochenski, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Martin Gelinas, LW (Unsigned Free Agent)
Jan Hlavac, LW (Signed with Linkoping HC of the Swedish Elite League)
Darcy Hordichuk, LW (Traded to the Carolina Hurricanes, later signed as a free agent with the Vancouver Canucks)
Chris Mason, G (Traded to the St. Louis Blues)
Alexander Radulov, RW (Signed with Salavat Yulaev Ufa of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Marek Zidlicky, D (Traded to the Minnesota Wild)

2007-08 Season Finish: 2nd Central Division, 8th Western Conference, 91 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Lost 4-2 to the Detroit Red Wings in Quarterfinals

2008-09 Prediction: 3rd Central Division, 10th Western Conference

The Nashville Predators faced an uncertain future during the summer of 2007 with the pending sale to Jim Balsillie, who wanted to move the team to Hamilton, Ontario. After the deal feel through, the team was purchased by local investors who decided to keep the team in Nashville. Looking to keep the players' salary low, team management has opted to sign inexpensive, young talent rather than expensive veteran talent. As a result, the Predators were not very active during free agency this summer, but still have quality group of talented players, especially on offense. With Alexander Radulov's departure to the Kontinental Hockey League, Jason Arnott is perhaps the top forward on the Predators' roster. He brings the team lots of veteran depth, offensive talent, and rugged play. Veterans David Legwand and Steve Sullivan provide lots of offensive skill to the team's forward line, though the latter missed all of last season with a back injury and could likely miss more time during the new season. J.P. Dumont and Martin Erat enjoyed fine seasons in 2007-08 and will likely do so again next season, as both are just hitting their offensive potentials. Radek Bonk, Vernon Fiddler, and Jed Ortmeyer provide the Predators with solid, offensive depth on their checking lines, while Scott Nichol, Jordin Tootoo, and Jerred Smithson bring lots of grittiness and physicality. Young forwards Triston Grant, Josh Gratton, and Rich Peverley will look to make the team at training camp, but will likely face lots of competition from the Predators top prospects. Ryan Jones, whom the team views as a top-six forward, could likely make the team, as well as Antti Pihlstrom, Patric Hornqvist, Mark and Mike Santorelli, Nick Spaling, and Cal O'Reilly. While the team is loaded with offensive prospects, the team could use a veteran forward or two for depth. There have been rumors that the Predators are interested in singing Mark Parrish or Glen Murray to add veteran depth to the team.

The Predators lost a bit of veteran depth and offensive experience on their blueline with the departure of Marek Zidlicky, but still have plenty of talented defensemen. Shea Weber and Ryan Suter are quickly establishing themselves as the two top defensemen on the Predators with their offensive talent and physical play. Dan Hamhuis and Greg de Vries both provide the team with quality, defensive depth and toughness. Ville Koistinen and Greg Zanon give the team plenty of defensive depth on their 3rd defensive pairing. Youngsters Kevin Klein, Jonathan Blum, Teemu Laakso, and Cody Franson will look to make the team at training camp on their fine defensive talent.

Dan Ellis had a breakout season in 2007-08, and as a result, earned himself the starter's role late in the season. His fine performance in the playoffs against Detroit instilled enough confidence in Predators' management to sign him to a multi-year deal and trade away former starter Chris Mason. The backup role will likely fall to one of the Predators prospect goaltenders. Pekka Rinne, Mark Dekanich, and Chet Pickard will all showcase their fine goaltending skills to earn the backup position for the 2008-09 season. The Predators lack an experienced goaltender and could consider acquiring one if any of their current goaltenders struggle during the season.

STRENGTHS

• Team has lots of talented young forwards.
• Rugged defense.
• Plenty of quality goaltending prospects.

WEAKNESSES

• Could use one or two veteran forwards for depth.
• Need more offense on defense.
• Lack an experienced goaltender.

Montreal Canadiens 2008-09 Outlook

MONTREAL CANADIENS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Marc Denis, G (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Tampa Bay Lightning)
Robert Lang, C (Acquired in a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks)
Georges Laraque, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Pittsburgh Penguins)
Alex Tanguay, LW (Acquired in a trade with the Calgary Flames)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Mikhail Grabovski, C (Traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs)
Corey Locke, C (Traded to the Minnesota Wild)
Michael Ryder, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Boston Bruins)
Bryan Smolinski, C (Unsigned Free Agent)

Mark Streit, D (Signed as a free agent with the New York Islanders)

2007-08 Season Finish: 1st Northeast Division, 1st Eastern Conference, 104 Pts.

2007-08 Playoffs: Won 4-3 against the Boston Bruins in Quarterfinals

Lost 4-1 to Philadelphia Flyers in Semi-Finals

2008-09 Prediction: 1st Northeast Division, 1st Eastern Conference

The Montreal Canadiens were one of the most dominant teams in the Eastern Conference during the 2007-08 season, but struggled in the playoffs, nearly losing to the Boston Bruins in the 1st round before losing in five games to the Philadelphia Flyers in the semi-finals. After some offensive upgrades over the summer, the Canadiens will look to have another fine season in 2008-09, their 100th season in existence. Looking for a high-scoring forward, the Canadiens acquired Alex Tanguay from the Calgary Flames. Tanguay gives the Canadiens lots of offensive depth and experience. He will likely join Saku Koivu and Alex Kovalev on the top line. Guillaume Latendresse, Christopher Higgins, and Tomas Plekanec give the Canadiens lots of offensive talent and depth and enjoyed fine seasons in 2007-08. They will look to improve their fine play in 2008-09. Lacking veteran experience at center, the Canadiens recently acquired Robert Lang from the Chicago Blackhawks. Lang will give the Canadiens plenty of goal-scoring talent and veteran depth. Brothers Andrei and Sergei Kostitsyn enjoyed fine rookie seasons last year and will likely improve in 2008-09. They bring plenty of offensive talent and toughness to the team, respectively. Maxim Lapierre, Tom Kostopoulos, Steve Begin, and newcomer Georges Laraque all bring plenty of toughness and gritty play to the Canadiens forward lines. The Canadiens have plenty of high-quality prospects who will look to make the team at training camp. Kyle Chipchura, Max Pacioretty, Greg Stewart, and Matt D'Agostini will all look to secure roster spots on the 4th line at training camp.

The Canadiens lost a bit of offensive talent on their defense after the departure of Mark Streit via free agency, but their blueline is still stocked with plenty of talented players. Andrei Markov provides the team with lots of offensive talent and veteran depth. The Canadiens have plenty of rugged defensemen in Roman Hamrlik, Mike Komisarek, Francis Bouillon, Ryan O'Byrne, and Josh Gorges. Their toughness and gritty play makes them a valuable part of the team's defense. Mathieu Dandenault brings plenty of speed and veteran depth to the team's defense, while longtime Canadien Patrice Brisebois brings veteran experience and grit to the team. While the Canadiens have lots of rugged and gritty players on their defense, the team could use an offensive defenseman on the blueline, especially on the powerplay.

Goalie phenom Carey Price will begin his first full season as the Canadiens starter in 2008-09. Price played exceptional for the Canadiens last season, showing that he will be an elite goaltender in the NHL with his fine play. Jaroslav Halak will be Price's backup next season, giving the Canadiens two talented goaltenders to backstop the team. Both goalies show lots of promise, but their inexperience could hurt the Canadiens come playoff time. Marc Denis was brought in via free agency for veteran depth, but his degrading play over the past few seasons likely won't carry the Canadiens far if they have to rely on him at any time during the season.

STRENGTHS

• Very talented, high-scoring offense.
• Rugged defense.
• Lots of high-quality prospects.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more offense on defense.
• Goaltenders don't have a lot of experience at the professional level.
  

Minnesota Wild 2008-09 Outlook

MINNESOTA WILD

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Marc-Andre Bergeron, D (Acquired in a trade with the Anaheim Ducks)
Andrew Brunette, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Colorado Avalanche)
Corey Locke, C (Acquired in a trade with the Montreal Canadiens)
Antti Miettinen, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Dallas Stars)
Owen Nolan, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Calgary Flames)
Craig Weller, RW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Phoenix Coyotes)
Marek Zidlicky, D (Acquired in a trade with the Nashville Predators)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Keith Carney, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Pavol Demitra, C (Signed as a free agent with the Vancouver Canucks)
Todd Fedoruk, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Phoenix Coyotes)
Matt Foy, RW (Signed as a free agent with the St. Louis Blues)
Sean Hill, D (Signed with EHC Biel (Switzerland))
Mark Parrish, RW (Buyout)
Branko Radivojevic, RW (Signed with Spartak Moscow of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Brian Rolston, RW (Traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning, later signed with New Jersey Devils)
Chris Simon, LW (Signed with Vityaz Podolsk Chekhov of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Aaron Voros, LW (Signed as a free agent with the New York Rangers)

2007-08 Season Finish: 1st Northwest Division, 3rd Western Conference, 98 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Lost 4-2 to the Colorado Avalanche in Quarterfinals

2008-09 Prediction: 4th Northwest Division, 9th Western Conference

The Minnesota Wild enjoyed a fine season in 2007-08, but saw an early exit in the playoffs after their offense fell apart against the Colorado Avalanche. The Wild may find it difficult to repeat their success of last season in 2008-09 after losing several of their top offensive producers via free agency. However, Minnesota still has plenty of offensive skill to keep themselves a competitive team. Marian Gaborik enjoyed a fine season offensively in 2007-08 and will look to do so again this season. His goal-scoring ability and offensive talent make him a valuable part of the team. With Gaborik in the final year of his contract and facing unrestricted free agency in 2009, his talent would be missed on the Wild's offense should they lose him to free agency. Pierre-Marc Bouchard and Stephane Veilleux provide the Wild with fine offensive talent and great passing skills. Newcomer Andrew Brunette had a bit of a down season with Colorado in 2007-08, but he could see his offensive numbers improve with his return to the Wild. His offensive skills and veteran depth will be valuable to a team that saw the departures of Pavol Demitra, Brian Rolston, and Mark Parrish. Mikko Koivu brings the Wild plenty of rising offensive talent and passing skills, while Eric Belanger provides decent two-way play on the team. Newcomer Antti Miettinen gives the team good offensive depth on their forward lines. Owen Nolan brings the Wild lots of offensive depth, veteran leadership, and toughness, while tough-guy Derek Boogaard and newcomer Craig Weller provides lots of grittiness. Youngsters James Sheppard and Benoit Pouliot will look to improve on their fine offensive talent next season and could likely do so on the Wild's top forward lines. Prospects Cal Clutterbuck, Petr Kalus, and Corey Locke will look to make the team at training camp on their rising offensive skills. While the Wild should be able to roll a few decent forward lines during the new season, they should look to add a high-scoring top-six forward to make up for the offensive talent lost over the summer.

The Wild's defense could provide the team with plenty of offense during the 2008-09 season, as they have stocked their blueline with several offensive defensemen. Brent Burns enjoyed a highly productive season offensively in 2007-08. He will likely improve on his play this season while also providing a bit of physical play. Marek Zidlicky, acquired from Nashville via trade, and Marc-Andre Bergeron, acquired from Anaheim via trade, provide the Wild's blueline with plenty of offensive talent and veteran depth. Kim Johnsson and Martin Skoula bring plenty of veteran depth and defensive experience to the Wild's defense, while Nick Schultz provides lots of toughness and gritty play. With Kurtis Foster facing a long recovery after breaking his left femur in a collision last season, the Wild will likely have an open spot on defense for one of their prospects. Eric Reitz, John Scott, and Clayton Stoner will all look to fill that defensive void during the 2008-09 season. With plenty of offense on Minnesota's blueline, the addition of a physical defenseman could help them in their chase for the playoffs.

Niklas Backstrom returns as the team's starting goaltender next season, and will likely see a fine season in 2008-09 as his talent continues to improve. Josh Harding will be in the backup role again next season and is a suitable backup to Backstrom with his solid goaltending depth.

STRENGTHS

• Plenty of physical forwards.
• Lots of offense on defense.
• Solid goaltending.

WEAKNESSES

• Need another high-scoring top-six forward.
• Could use more toughness on defense.
• Not a lot of highly-touted prospects.

Los Angeles Kings 2008-09 Outlook

LOS ANGELES KINGS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Denis Gauthier, D (Acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Flyers)
Matt Greene, D (Acquired in a trade with the Edmonton Oilers)
Brad Richardson, C (Acquired in a trade with the Colorado Avalanche)
Jarret Stoll, C (Acquired in a trade with the Edmonton Oilers)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Rob Blake, D (Signed as a free agent with the San Jose Sharks)
Michael Cammalleri, RW (Traded to the Calgary Flames)
Dan Cloutier, G (Buyout)
Kevin Dallman, D (Signed with Barys Astana of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Jeff Giuliano, LW (Signed with Dinamo Minsk of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Jon Klemm, D (Signed with EHC Straubing (Germany))
Ladislav Nagy, LW (Signed with Severstal Cherepovets of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Scott Thornton, LW (Retired)
Lubomir Visnovsky, D (Traded to the Edmonton Oilers)
Brian Willsie, RW (Signed as a free agent with the Colorado Avalanche)

2007-08 Season Finish: 5th Pacific Division, 15th Western Conference, 71 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 5th Pacific Division, 15th Western Conference

The Los Angeles Kings have been a rebuilding team for the past few seasons and will still be doing so during the 2008-09 season. The Kings have acquired several high-profile players through the draft the last few years, which should make them a competitive team in the future. Anze Kopitar has quickly emerged as the Kings’ top offensive player. His offensive skill and goal-scoring ability will only get better every season, thus making him a very important part of the rebuilding Kings. Dustin Brown is also emerging as one of Los Angeles’ top offensive players. His goal-scoring ability, offensive talent, and toughness make him a valuable asset to the Kings. Alexander Frolov and Patrick O’Sullivan also bring a wealth of offensive and skill to the Kings’ forward lines. Jarret Stoll, acquired from Edmonton early in the summer, struggled offensively last season, but will look to improve his fine offensive skills on a young Los Angeles roster. Veterans Michal Handzus and Derek Armstrong bring good offensive depth and some toughness to the Kings roster even though both players struggled a bit offensively last season. Kyle Calder brings veteran depth and toughness to the Kings’ offense despite his declining offensive production, while Raitis Ivanans provides the team with a lot of grittiness. Young forwards Brian Boyle, Teddy Purcell, Brady Murray, and Matt Moulson did not see much playing time on a veteran Kings roster in 2007-08, but with the departure of several of those veterans, all four players will likely secure roster spots on the 3rd and 4th lines to improve their offensive skills. Newly acquired Brad Richardson will likely get a chance to play on these lines during the 2008-09 season as well. Prospects Trevor Lewis and Oscar Moller will look to make the team at training camp on their fine offensive talent. While Los Angeles has lots of promising offensive talent, they could use more veteran players to mentor the young forwards. With the Kings currently under the salary cap minimum, they could afford to add several veteran players to give them more depth on offense.

The Kings’ defense looks to become the strongest part of their team over the next few seasons with the number of high-profile defensive prospects they have. Los Angeles lost a lot of star power on their blueline over the summer after trading Lubomir Visnovsky to Edmonton and losing Rob Blake to San Jose via free agency. Tom Preissing and Denis Gauthier are now the most experienced defensemen on the team. Preissing brings lots of offensive experience to the Kings’ defense, while Gauthier provides lots of toughness and gritty play. Highly-skilled youngster Jack Johnson gives the Kings a lot of toughness on defense and his offensive potential will be valuable to the team’s blueline in the future. Matt Greene, acquired in a trade with Edmonton, gives the Kings a lot of toughness on defense as well. Defensive prospects Thomas Hickey and Drew Doughty could make the team this season on their highly anticipated offensive skill. Prospect Colton Teubert will look to make the team at training camp on his gritty, defensive play. With the Kings seeking more veteran experience, there have been rumors that the team is interested in acquired Mathieu Schneider from Anaheim, who need to free up salary to resign Teemu Selanne. Schneider would give the Kings plenty of veteran depth and offensive skill on defense.

Los Angeles’ goaltending remains the shakiest part of the team, as they lack an experienced goaltender. Jason LaBarbera, who will likely be the starter for the 2008-09 season, doesn’t have a lot of experience as a starting goaltender, but could still carry the team. The backup will likely be either Erik Ersberg or Jonathan Bernier, though it’s likely Ersberg could be the backup, as the Kings want to give Bernier adequate time to develop in the minors given his highly-touted potential.

STRENGTHS

• Lots of high quality prospects on offense and defense.
• Plenty of toughness on defense.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more veteran depth on offense.
• Need more offense on defense.
• Goaltenders have very little experience.

Florida Panthers 2008-09 Outlook

FLORIDA PANTHERS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Keith Ballard, D (Acquired in a trade with the Phoenix Coyotes)
Nick Boynton, D (Acquired in a trade with the Phoenix Coyotes)
Rory Fitzpatrick, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Philadelphia Flyers)
Bryan McCabe, D (Acquired in a trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs)
Cory Stillman, LW (Signed as a free agent, previously with the Ottawa Senators)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Jassen Cullimore, D (Unsigned Free Agent)
Magnus Johansson, D (Signed with Atlant Mytischy of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Olli Jokinen, C (Traded to the Phoenix Coyotes)
Branislav Mezei, D (Signed with Barys Astana of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Steve Montador, D (Signed as a free agent with the Anaheim Ducks)
Garth Murray, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Phoenix Coyotes)
Jozef Stumpel, LW (Buyout, later signed with Barys Astana of the Kontinental Hockey League)
Mike Van Ryn, D (Traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs)

2007-08 Season Finish: 3rd Southeast Division, 11th Eastern Conference, 85 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 4th Southeast Division, 11th Eastern Conference

The Florida Panthers will be looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 2000 next season, but it’s likely though aspirations may have to wait a year or two as the team continues to rebuild. The loss of Olli Jokinen is a he blow to the Panthers’ offense, but the team still has plenty of other players who provide some jump to the forward lines. After trading Jokinen, the Panthers immediately signed free agent forward Cory Stillman from Ottawa. Stillman brings lots of offensive skill and depth to the team. Young forward Nathan Horton, coming off of consecutive 62 point seasons, is a rising force on the Panthers’ offense. His offensive skills and toughness will be valuable to the team in the coming years. Rostislav Olesz is another offensively talented forward who will bring plenty of skill to Florida’s forward ranks for years to come. Brett McLean, Radek Dvorak, and Ville Peltonen bring lots of needed veteran depth to the Panthers’ young offense, and all three could likely play on the 2nd line this season. Richard Zednik will look to make his return to the ice next season after suffering a series slash to the throat by an ice skate during a game with the Buffalo Sabres. Zednik offensive skill and veteran depth will be valuable to the rebuilding Panthers. Stephen Weiss and David Booth bring plenty of offensive depth to the Panthers and will look to improve their numbers next season. Wade Belak and Gregory Campbell give Florida a lot of grit and toughness to their checking lines, while Kamil Kreps brings offensive talent and depth. The Panthers have plenty of talented, young prospects who will look to make the team at training camp. Michael Frolik, Drew Larman, Shawn Matthias, Michal Repik, and Anthony Stewart will all look to secure roster spots with their rising, offensive potential. While Florida has plenty of good, rising talent on offense, the team lacks veteran depth at center and could use another numbers-producing winger. Additions of these types could significantly increase the Panthers’ chances of making the playoffs in 2008-09.

The Panthers’ defense improved greatly over the summer and now boasts a wealth of talented players. Acquired in a trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Bryan McCabe brings a combination of offense, veteran depth, and toughness to the Panthers’ defense. Jay Bouwmeester also provides the Panthers’ defense with lots of offense and toughness, though the 2008-09 season could be his last with the team, as he is eligible for unrestricted free agency in 2009 and appears to be growing restless with the team’s slow rebuilding. Keith Ballard, acquired in a trade with Phoenix, and Cory Murphy give Florida’s defense plenty of offense and speed. Bryan Allen, Nick Boynton, and Karlis Skrastins all bring veteran depth and toughness to the Panthers blueline. Prospects Keaton Ellerby and Peter Aston will look to make the team at training camp on their fine defensive play and toughness.

Tomas Vokoun and Craig Anderson return as the Panther’s goaltending tandem to start the 2008-09 season. Vokoun played decent behind a relatively inexperienced defensive unit last season and will likely see his play improve with a more experienced blueline this season. Anderson enjoyed a fine season as backup to Vokoun, one of his finest in his NHL career. He could easily step into the starter’s role if Vokoun were to be sidelined with a lengthy injury. Propsects David Shantz and Tyler Plante will look to show off their improving skills at training camp, but will likely spend next season honing those skills in the minors.

STRENGTHS

• Plenty of skilled prospects on offense.
• Good blend of offense and toughness on their defense.
• Good goaltending depth.

WEAKNESSES

• Need more veteran experience on offense.
• Team has been in rebuild mode for too many years.

Edmonton Oilers 2008-09 Outlook

EDMONTON OILERS

NOTABLE ADDITIONS
Gilbert Brule, C (Acquired in a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets)
Erik Cole, LW (Acquired in a trade with the Carolina Hurricanes)
Jason Strudwick, D (Signed as a free agent, previously with the New York Rangers)
Lubomir Visnovsky, D (Acquired in a trade with the Los Angeles Kings)

NOTABLE LOSSES
Curtis Glencross, LW (Signed as a free agent with the Calgary Flames)
Matt Greene, D (Traded to the Los Angeles Kings)
Joni Pitkanen, D (Traded to the Carolina Hurricanes)
Marty Reasoner, C (Signed as a free agent with the Atlanta Thrashers)
Geoff Sanderson, LW (Unsigned Free Agent)
Jarret Stoll, C (Traded to the Los Angeles Kings)
Raffi Torres, LW (Traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets)

2007-08 Season Finish: 4th Northwest Division, 9th Western Conference, 88 Pts.
2007-08 Playoffs: Did Not Make Playoffs

2008-09 Prediction: 3rd Northwest Division, 7th Western Conference

After making it to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2006 and seeing a lot of their players depart afterward, the Oilers have been in rebuilding mode for the past two seasons. After drafting several highly-touted players over the past few years, the Oilers are poised to become a very competitive team in the future, especially on offense. Ales Hemsky and Shawn Horcoff enjoyed fine seasons offensively last year, though Horcoff's performance was limited to 53 games due to an injury. The duo will look to have productive years again next season on the top line with newcomer Erik Cole. Acquired in a trade with Carolina, Cole brings offensive depth and toughness to the Oilers' top line. Andrew Cogliano and Sam Gagner enjoyed fine rookie seasons offensively, and will likely play on the 2nd line with the talented Dustin Penner, who will look to improve his goal-scoring ability next season. Provided he can elevate his offensive play, newcomer Gilbert Brule could see himself securing a spot on the Oilers' 2nd line. Kyle Brodziak, Robert Nilsson, and Fernando Pisani all bring plenty of offensive talent and depth to Edmonton's checking lines, while Ethan Moreau and Zack Stortini provide a lot of toughness and gritty play to the checking lines. Promising youngsters Marc Pouliot, Rob Schremp, Jean-Francois Jacques, and Ryan Potulny will look to make the team at training camp on their fine offensive skills. While the Oilers' future on offense looks bright, the addition of a veteran forward or two for offensive depth could be beneficial to the team.

Edmonton's defense got a little stronger over the summer with the addition of Lubomir Visnovsky, who was acquired in a trade with Los Angeles. Visnovsky brings a lot of offensive skill to an Oilers defense that is in need of some offense. Visnovsky will likely play with Sheldon Souray, another offensively gifted defenseman, on Edmonton's top defensive pairing. The two also brings lots of veteran depth to the Oilers' defense, especially on the power play. Ladislav Smid and veterans Steve Staios and Jason Strudwick provide a lot of toughness and physical play to Edmonton's defense. Youngsters Tom Gilbert and Denis Grebeshkov are rising offensive forces on the Oilers' blueline who will look to improve their play next season. Prospects Mathieu Roy, Taylor Chorney, and Bryan Young will all likely push hard at training camp to make the Oilers' already talented defense.

The Oilers could have a possible logjam in goal when the season starts. Mathieu Garon could likely earn the starting role this season due in large part to his exceptional play throughout the 2007-08 season. Dwayne Roloson, who struggled early last year but improved his play late in the season, will likely be the backup due to his age and declining production. Challenging Roloson for the backup position will be the promising Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers. The Oilers may have to start the season with three goaltenders, as Drouin-Deslauriers would have to clear waivers if he were sent to the minors, which he likely would not do. There have been rumours that the Oilers could try to trade Roloson, but that could be difficult for them to do due to his salary, age, and declining production.

STRENGTHS

• Lots of promising, young offensive talent.
• Plenty of offense on their defense.

WEAKNESSES

• Offense could benefit from another veteran forward or two for depth.
• Could use a little bit more toughness on defense.
• Too much of a logjam in goal.