NHL Power Rankings: Lightning strikes, Flames burn out

11. Vegas Golden Knights (+1)

The Vegas Golden Knights have beaten the odds, surprised the sports world and qualified for the playoffs in their first season. This amazing feat was so surprising it even lead to a radio host being forced to eat a flip flop. How did the Golden Knights do it? The emergence of Jonathan Marchessault and William Karlsson. There is no doubt Florida and the Columbus Blue Jackets would like a re-do when it comes to the expansion draft. Marchessault leads the team with 72 points and Karlsson is right behind with 69. These two players have combined to lead one of the leagues most high-powered offenses into the playoffs.

The Golden Knights have found their way into the playoffs. Moreover, they are almost a lock to win the Pacific division. The Golden Knights can’t coast yet, however. They still could get caught by the San Jose Sharks, who are only five points back. Vegas has won three of their last five games, beating the Calgary Flames, Vancouver Canucks and Colorado Avalanche. Their two losses came to the San Jose Sharks in overtime and the Colorado Avalanche in a shootout. To close out the regular season the Knights will host the St. Louis Blues and San Jose Sharks before hitting to road to play the Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames