NHL Power Rankings: Oilers and Maple Leafs rising, Blues on top
103. . 2-0-0. Previous: . Colorado Avalanche. 16. team
The Colorado Avalanche beat the Dallas Stars 6-5 and the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3 in ovetime, but don’t request off for the Stanley Cup parade just yet. There are still serious concerns with the Avalanche. Their defense is a complete mess. In fairness, this isn’t a surprise. When Erik Johnson and Tyson Barrie are your top two NHL defensemen and you have very little depth behind them, you’re not in good shape.
That said, be excited about their offense. Their offense was exciting and fast, something which could never be said while the Avalanche were coached by Patrick Roy. So while the Avalanche have some concerns, at worst they’re going to be a darn fun NHL team to watch this season.
1-0-1. Previous: . Toronto Maple Leafs. 15. team. 116.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been a very pleasant surprise this season. Their bold strategy of going with a young lineup has paid off. All but two of their first eight goals of the season have been scored by rookies. Auston Matthews had four goals in his NHL debut, but in typical Leafs fashion, they found a way to lose.
Toronto’s defense could be a bit of a concern. Frederik Andersen didn’t look sharp against the Ottawa Senators, but he did look better against the Bruins. Their offense is likely good enough to ensure they won’t be the worst team in the NHL. It’s up to their defense to turn them into a playoff contender.