4. Boston Bruins
The Boston Bruins have been impressive this season. They have built a comfortable cushion in the Atlantic Division ahead of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Tuukka Rask has played exceptionally well in goal and Brad Marchand is having another strong offensive season. One reason for the Bruins’ success is the emergence of defenseman Charlie McAvoy. The rookie defenseman is turning into one of the top two-way defensemen in the game. Unfortunately for the Bruins, he has been sidelined by a knee injury and is scheduled to miss multiple weeks. The good news is he should be ready to go when the Bruins start the playoffs. His addition back to the team will help them beat a high-tempo offensive team like the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Bruins were very successful, last week winning three of their four games. They were able to earn two points against the Detroit Red Wings, Philadelphia Flyers and Chicago Blackhawks. Boston’s only loss came to the Chicago Blackhawks in the second half of a home and home series. Boston is all but a lock to make the playoffs at this point in the season. However, it is important to keep earning points to keep their home ice advantage in the first round of the playoffs.