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**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 01:51 PM

Who's on the hot seat in the Eastern Conference

NHL.com continues its preview of the 2014-15 season, which begins Wednesday, Oct. 8.

It's almost time for another NHL season, and the pressure is already starting to build for some players who know they'll have to be big-time producers for their teams to push for a Stanley Cup Playoff berth or contend for the Stanley Cup.

Here's a look at a player from each of the 16 teams in the Eastern Conference who'll be under pressure to perform as soon as the puck drops:

Loui Eriksson, Boston Bruins -- Eriksson's first season with the Bruins didn't turn out the way he or the team had hoped after he was acquired in the trade that sent Tyler Seguin to the Dallas Stars. The four-time 20-goal scorer managed all of 10 goals and 37 points in 61 games during an injury-hampered season. With Jarome Iginla gone via free agency and the team tight against the salary cap, the Bruins need Eriksson to put up the kind of numbers he had with Dallas from 2008-12, when he averaged nearly 30 goals and 70 points.

2014-15 SEASON PREVIEW

Team-by-team season previews

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Matt Moulson, Buffalo Sabres -- Moulson must have made an impression during his 44 games with the Sabres last season; after sending him to the Minnesota Wild at the NHL Trade Deadline, they signed him to a five-year contract this summer. The three-time 30-goal scorer is one of the few offensive forces on a team that averaged fewer than two goals a game in 2013-14, and the Sabres need him to return to that level to have any hope of avoiding another last-place finish.

Eric Staal, Carolina Hurricanes -- Staal is coming off his worst full season since 2003-04, when he was a rookie. Not coincidentally, the Hurricanes again failed to qualify for the playoffs. New coach Bill Peters has to find a way to get Staal's offensive numbers (21 goals, 61 points) up substantially for the Hurricanes to have a chance to end a playoff drought that dates to 2009. With younger brother Jordan out for at least three months with a broken leg, there will be even more pressure on Eric to produce.

Scott Hartnell, Columbus Blue Jackets -- For the second straight season, the Blue Jackets have brought in a veteran forward in hopes of getting goals and leadership. Nathan Horton, who was signed last summer, has been plagued by injuries. Hartnell, who came in a trade from the Philadelphia Flyers, is expected to bring the kind of grit the Blue Jackets pride themselves on while scoring about 20 goals -- the number he generated last season.

Henrik Zetterberg, Detroit Red Wings -- Detroit's captain was a point-a-game player last season; the problem was he missed 37 games because of injuries. Zetterberg turns 34 this month but is still among the NHL's elite players, as long as he's on the ice. He has to be healthy and productive for the Red Wings to continue their streak of consecutive playoff appearances, which began in 1991.

Dave Bolland, Florida Panthers -- Florida general manager Dale Tallon, who knew Bolland from their days in Chicago, opened his checkbook and signed the 28-year-old center to a five-year contract this summer. Bolland got the long-term contract even though he's never scored 20 goals or 50 points in a season and missed most of 2013-14 with an ankle injury. He did play on two championship teams in Chicago and got the Cup-winning goal in 2013, but Bolland figures to have a tough time living up to his new contract.

P.K. Subban, Montreal Canadiens -- Speaking of living up to a contract: Subban signed one for eight years and $72 million with the Canadiens this summer, putting himself squarely on the hot seat in hockey-mad Montreal. Subban is already an elite defenseman and at age 25 still has room for improvement, but he's a risk-taker on the ice, and his mistakes will be under a brighter light now that he's among the NHL's highest-paid defensemen.

Jaromir Jagr, New Jersey Devils -- Jagr will turn 43 in February, but he shows no signs of slowing down. He played all 82 games in his first season with New Jersey, scoring 24 goals and leading the team with 67 points, six game-winners and a plus-16 rating. Jagr doesn't have the speed he did as a kid, but his hockey knowledge and love of the game more than compensate for that. For the Devils, a team that struggles to score, any significant drop in production by Jagr could keep them out of the playoffs for the third year in a row.

Jaroslav Halak, New York Islanders -- The Islanders' hopes for a second straight trip to the Stanley Cup Playoffs were undermined by goaltending; New York was last in the NHL in save percentage in 2013-14. General manager Garth Snow wasted little time bringing in Halak, whose career save percentage is .918. He and newly signed backup Chad Johnson should give the Islanders their most consistent goaltending in years and provide a talented young team with a chance to return to the playoffs.

Martin St. Louis, New York Rangers -- The Rangers paid a huge price to get St. Louis at the trade deadline in March, but he struggled during the regular season (one goal in 19 games) before looking more like his old self during the playoffs. The Rangers, who took some hits up front in free agency, need St. Louis to be the point-a-game player he was with the Tampa Bay Lightning to have any hope of repeating as Eastern Conference champions.

Kyle Turris, Ottawa Senators -- Jason Spezza is now a member of the Stars, meaning Turris is being penciled in for the role of first-line center. It's a big jump for a player who had never scored more than 12 goals or 29 points before breaking out for a 26-goal, 58-point season in 2013-14. But he put up those numbers with Spezza's line facing the opposition's top checkers on most nights. Turris figures to face tougher opposition this season.

Steve Mason, Philadelphia Flyers -- Mason's first full season with the Flyers was his best since he won the Calder Trophy as the NHL's top rookie with the Blue Jackets in 2008-09, and his absence from the early stages of the playoffs might have been the biggest reason the Flyers lost in the first round. Still, his final numbers (2.50 goals-against average, .917 save percentage) were good, not great. The Flyers figure to struggle defensively, meaning Mason should be tested early and often. If he can't at least repeat last season's performance, the Flyers will have trouble making the playoffs.

Patric Hornqvist, Pittsburgh Penguins -- The Penguins got Hornqvist in the trade that sent forward James Neal to the Nashville Predators and are likely to use him in the same position, at left wing on a line centered by Evgeni Malkin. That should give Hornqvist's offensive numbers a nice boost. But Neal was a sniper, especially on the power play, while Hornqvist gets his goals almost exclusively by crashing the crease. The Penguins could see some growing pains as they try to fit Hornqvist into their system.

Ryan Callahan, Tampa Bay Lightning -- Callahan came to the Lightning at the trade deadline in a captain-for-captain swap that sent St. Louis to the Rangers. He looked right at home in Tampa Bay; so much so that the Lightning paid big money to keep him. At his best, Callahan is a 20-goal, 50-point heart-and-soul guy, but one whose style of play can cause him to miss time with injuries. He's in line for a top-six role with an up-and-coming Lightning team, but they need him to stay healthy.

Jake Gardiner, Toronto Maple Leafs -- Gardiner was one of the few bright spots on a Toronto team that collapsed down the stretch, and was rewarded during the offseason with a five-year contract worth more than $20 million. He's probably the best puck-mover on the Maple Leafs' blue line, and he led all Toronto defensemen last season with 10 goals, half of them in the final 18 games. The Maple Leafs need the 24-year-old to build on that performance and deliver on the long-term commitment he received.

Matt Niskanen, Washington Capitals -- Niskanen picked the right time to have a career year, and his 10-goal, 46-point performance for the Penguins earned him a seven-year contract from the Capitals. Now it's up to Niskanen to prove he's not a one-hit wonder, even though his offensive numbers last season were more than he'd put up in the previous three seasons combined.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 01:54 PM

How East's playoff outsiders get back in this season
Wednesday, 10.01.2014 / 3:00 AM / 2014-2015 Season Preview
By Adam Kimelman - NHL.com Deputy Managing Editor
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NHL.com continues its preview of the 2014-15 season, which begins Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Summer may be the most enjoyable season for many people, but when it comes to NHL teams, they want to put off the start to their summers as long as possible.

But for the eight Eastern Conference teams that missed out on the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoff party, their goal since the second week of April has been figuring out how to extend their seasons into May -- or even June, like the conference champion New York Rangers.

So how can the teams that missed the fun turn into postseason hits? As opening night of the regular season nears, NHL.com today examines why fans of the unlucky eight can hold onto their playoff hopes:

WASHINGTON CAPITALS

2014-15 SEASON PREVIEW

Team-by-team season previews

How it ended: The Capitals were second in the Metropolitan Division at the December holiday break, but an 8-9-5 record from then until the Olympic break, including an 0-5-2 skid in mid-January, left them out of the playoffs.

Offseason changes: Sweeping changes led to the firings of general manager George McPhee and coach Adam Oates. Brian MacLellan was promoted from assistant GM to replace McPhee, and he hired long-time Nashville Predators coach Barry Trotz to replace Oates. MacLellan spent big on improving his defense, giving big-money, long-term contracts to free agents Matt Niskanen and Brooks Orpik. He also traded goaltender Jaroslav Halak for a draft pick and signed Justin Peters as the backup to Braden Holtby. The spending in other places meant second-line center Mikhail Grabovski was allowed to sign elsewhere.

Why they could get in: Any team with Alex Ovechkin is an automatic playoff contender. Now supporting that offensive firepower is a strong six-man defensive group with the additions of Niskanen and Orpik, plus Trotz's well-known defensive system. Young forwards Evgeny Kuznetsov and Andre Burakovsky could replace Grabovski and energize the offense. One of the most important offseason moves could be the hiring of goaltender coach Mitch Korn, who has helped develop, among others, Dominik Hasek and Pekka Rinne. If he can help Holtby maximize his potential, combined with a stronger defensive team in front of him, the Capitals should be in the hunt for a top-three spot in the Metropolitan Division.

NEW JERSEY DEVILS

Last season: 35-29-18, 88 points, five points out of final wild-card spot in the East.

How it ended: Five shootout losses in their final 10 games was the difference between getting into the postseason and watching from the sideline. The Devils had two regulation losses in their final 13 games but went 6-2-5.

Offseason changes: The Devils got more offensive during the offseason, adding proven goal-scorers Mike Cammalleri and Marty Havlat. Havlat should arrive with extra motivation: He was bought out of his contract by the San Jose Sharks after three disappointing seasons, and now gets to play with three fellow Czechs, including close friend Patrik Elias. Cory Schneider signed a long-term contract extension in July, which spelled the end of the Martin Brodeur era in New Jersey. Scott Clemmensen was signed to compete with Keith Kinkaid for the backup spot behind Schneider. On defense, Anton Volchenkov was given a compliance buyout and Mark Fayne left for the Edmonton Oilers. However, one area of strength for the Devils is young defensemen, and those departures could mean more ice time for Adam Larsson, Jon Merrill and Eric Gelinas.

Why they could get in: Schneider, at age 28 and with the shadow of Brodeur cleared, is more than ready to be a No. 1 goaltender for the first time. Cammalleri and Havlat should upgrade an offense that brings back an ageless Jaromir Jagr, Elias, a healthy Ryane Clowe, Dainius Zubrus and talented centers Travis Zajac and Adam Henrique. Defenseman Marek Zidlicky remains a power-play threat and Gelinas isn't far from joining him. Larsson and Merrill should be ready to make strong contributions to the defense as well. In a wide-open Metropolitan Division, the Devils should be in the running for a top-three spot.

OTTAWA SENATORS

Last season: 37-31-14, 88 points, five points out of final wild-card spot in the East.

How it ended: With two wins in 11 games after the Olympic break (2-7-2), the Senators went from one point out of the second wild-card spot to nine out.

Offseason changes: The Senators entered a rebuilding mode with the trade of center Jason Spezza to the Dallas Stars for second-year forward Alex Chiasson and two prospects. They also let forward Ales Hemsky, acquired before the NHL Trade Deadline, leave in free agency. To add depth up the middle they signed center David Legwand.

Why they could get in: Two seasons ago the Senators were ravaged by injuries to a number of key veterans, including Spezza, and they made a surprising run to a playoff spot. Could that process repeat itself? Kyle Turris replaces Spezza as the No. 1 center; at 24 and coming off the best season of his career, he's ready for the increased ice time and responsibility. Bobby Ryan will be 100 percent after sports hernia surgery ended his season in March, and along with Milan Michalek, Ottawa has an impressive top-line scoring presence. Chiasson had 13 goals and 35 points in 2013-14, his first full NHL season, while playing up and down the lineup; he'll be in a top-six role this season and could build chemistry playing alongside Turris or Legwand. Defensively the Senators should be solid and will get a nice offensive injection from Erik Karlsson. And with a strong tandem in net in Craig Anderson and Robin Lehner, a wild-card spot is a possibility.

TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS

Last season: 38-36-8, 84 points, nine points out of final wild-card spot in the East.

How it ended: On March 16 the Maple Leafs were second in the Atlantic Division. They then lost eight straight and 10 of their final 12.

Offseason changes: Brendan Shanahan was hired as president in April and spent the summer adding an advanced analytic presence to the organization, including the hiring of assistant general manager Kyle Dubas. The Leafs got tougher defensively with the signing of Stephane Robidas and the addition of Roman Polak from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for Carl Gunnarsson. Dave Bolland left a hole in the middle when he signed with the Florida Panthers but the Leafs signed center Mike Santorelli, who was on his way to a strong season with the Vancouver Canucks before sustaining a season-ending shoulder injury in January. Also signed was Petri Kontiola, who had played well in Russia the past few seasons and will start the season in the American Hockey League. Forwards Jay McClement, Nikolay Kulemin and Mason Raymond left in free agency, but Leo Komarov was brought back after one season in Russia and Matt Frattin was re-acquired from the Columbus Blue Jackets. David Booth was signed after receiving a compliance buyout from the Vancouver Canucks but will start the season on injured reserve with a broken foot.
The Maple Leafs were in position to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2013-14, but Jonathan Bernier sustained an injury down the stretch and the team failed to qualify. (Photo: Getty Images)

Why they could get in: Jonathan Bernier proved last season he is capable of backstopping a team to the postseason, where it appeared Toronto was headed until Bernier got hurt in early April and the season fell apart. Minor changes might be all the Maple Leafs need as they return two of the more dynamic offensive players in the League in Phil Kessel and James van Riemsdyk. They have strong supporting offensive pieces in Joffrey Lupul and Nazem Kadri, plus William Nylander, the eighth pick of the 2014 NHL Draft. And Year 2 of David Clarkson almost certainly has to be better than Year 1. Defensemen Morgan Rielly and Jake Gardiner are quality puck-movers, and Polak and Dion Phaneuf have the strength to give opposing forwards a rough go in Toronto's end. If Bernier stays healthy and the offense produces like it has in the past, the Maple Leafs should be in the hunt for a top-three spot in the Atlantic, or at worst one of the conference's wild-card spots.

CAROLINA HURRICANES

Last season: 36-35-11, 83 points, 10 points out of final wild-card spot in the East.

How it ended: The Hurricanes went 10-4-0 in January but 11-15-2 the rest of the way.

Offseason changes: After 20 years Jim Rutherford stepped down as general manager and was replaced by Ron Francis. In his first major decision Francis fired coach Kirk Muller and replaced him with Detroit Red Wings assistant coach Bill Peters. However, those were the only major changes. Manny Malhotra departed, but the team got grittier in its bottom-six forward group with the additions of Jay McClement and Brad Malone. Tim Gleason returned to add depth on defense.

Why they could get in: The Hurricanes certainly have the pieces for a playoff team in place, starting on the top line with Eric Staal centering Jiri Tlusty and Alexander Semin. All three players are healthy and expected to have bounce-back seasons. Jeff Skinner is coming off a career-best 33-goal season and promising Elias Lindholm is a year older and more mature. Losing Jordan Staal until January certainly hurts, but a healthy and motivated Cam Ward in goal should help any drop-off in offense. If Ward can get back to the top-flight goaltender he was a few seasons ago and the Hurricanes adapt well to Peters' puck-possession style, they should be in the hunt for a wild-card spot and a return to the playoffs for the first time since 2009.

NEW YORK ISLANDERS

Last season: 34-37-11, 79 points, 14 points out of final wild-card spot in the East.

How it ended: After a rough start the Islanders showed some life in January, starting out 8-3-0 to get within five points of a wild-card spot, but they won one of eight games leading into the Olympic break to fall 12 back and never really challenged again.
The New York Islanders solidified their goaltending this offseason with the additions of Jaroslav Halak and Chad Johnson. (Photo: Getty Images)

Offseason changes: Few were more aggressive since the end of last season than Islanders general manager Garth Snow. He moved to solidify the team's goaltending by acquiring Jaroslav Halak from the Washington Capitals and then signed him to a four-year contract, and on the first day of free agency added a solid backup goalie in Chad Johnson. That allowed veteran Evgeni Nabokov to leave in free agency. TJ Brennan, the top defenseman in the American Hockey League last season, will get a shot to add to the Islanders' NHL depth at the position. And to bolster the offense the team signed forwards Mikhail Grabovski and Nikolay Kulemin. Forwards Cory Conacher and Jack Skille were added for depth up front. There also was a change at the top of the franchise with the announcement that former Washington Capitals co-owner Jon Ledecky and investor Scott Malkin had purchased a minority stake in the team and in two years would become majority owners.

Why they could get in: By itself, the return to health of star center and captain John Tavares will push the Islanders up the standings. Combined with the Islanders' aggressive offseason, it could propel them even higher. Halak has a career 2.38 goals-against average and a history of getting teams into the postseason. A top line of Tavares between Kyle Okposo and Brock Nelson is big and skilled; a second line of Grabovski with Kulemin and Ryan Strome or Anders Lee has strong offensive potential; and a third line of Frans Nielsen between Josh Bailey and Michael Grabner is full of quickness and defensive skill. Adding Brennan and top prospect Griffin Reinhart, the fourth pick of the 2012 NHL Draft, improves a solid defense corps that already features Travis Hamonic plus offensive-minded Calvin de Haan and Lubomir Visnovsky. With all the changes and improvements the Islanders should be in the running for a top-three spot in the Metropolitan Division.

FLORIDA PANTHERS

Last season: 29-45-8, 66 points, 27 points out of final wild-card spot in the East.

How it ended: A disappointing season ended with a 5-14-1 skid in their final 20 games.

Offseason changes: General manager Dale Tallon hired Montreal Canadiens assistant coach Gerard Gallant to replace interim coach Peter Horachek, and then set out to re-make his roster. He added skill, experience and toughness to his forward group with the free-agent signings of Dave Bolland, Jussi Jokinen, Shawn Thornton and Derek MacKenzie. After buying out the contract of veteran defenseman Ed Jovanovski, two-time Stanley Cup champion defenseman Willie Mitchell was signed away from the Los Angeles Kings. Mitchell also will serve as a mentor for defenseman Aaron Ekblad, the first pick of the 2014 NHL Draft who likely will start the season in the NHL. Goaltender Al Montoya was signed as the backup to Roberto Luongo.

Why they could get in: The last time Tallon re-worked the Panthers roster this much was three seasons ago, and the result was a Southeast Division title in 2011-12. This summer's rebuilding effort was a bit different as Tallon focused on leadership and toughness rather than skill; that's already in place as Florida's young core starts to mature. Jonathan Huberdeau is determined to prove his sophomore slump was a one-season bump in the road, and 2013 top pick Aleksander Barkov was getting Calder Trophy consideration until he was hurt at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. Nick Bjugstad showed he could be a No. 1 center and Vincent Trocheck had an impressive NHL debut late last season. Ekblad bolsters a defense led by Erik Gudbranson, Brian Campbell and Dmitry Kulikov. With a full season of Luongo backstopping their efforts, it's possible the Panthers could rise up the standings rapidly and fight for one of the conference's wild-card spots.

BUFFALO SABRES

Last season: 21-51-10, 52 points, 41 points out of final wild-card spot in the East.

How it ended: The Sabres went 0-6-1 in their final seven games to finish with the fewest points in the League.

Offseason changes: General manager Tim Murray continued to remake the roster during the summer. Forward Ville Leino and defenseman Christian Ehrhoff received compliance buyouts, and forwards Cory Conacher, John Scott and Zenon Konopka, as well as defenseman Henrik Tallinder, were not re-signed. Free agency saw veteran forwards Brian Gionta and Matt Moulson and defenseman Andrej Meszaros sign on, and defenseman Josh Gorges was acquired from the Montreal Canadiens for a 2016 draft pick. At the 2014 NHL Draft center Sam Reinhart was selected with the No. 2 pick, and he likely will be a big part of the team this season.

Why they could get in: Things have to be better for the Sabres in 2014-15, and that starts with having a full season of Ted Nolan as coach. And there is a significant amount of talent the new players will be joining, starting with Cody Hodgson. He was moved to the wing for Canada at the 2014 IIHF World Championship and tied for the team lead with six goals. He'll have a top-six forward spot, as will Moulson, a three-time 30-goal scorer. Reinhart, the fourth-leading scorer in the Western Hockey League last season, got a taste of professional life during a stint at Canada's World Championship training camp and likely will be a top-two center along with Tyler Ennis. The Sabres will be young all over the ice, including a defense that could feature giant 2013 first-round picks Rasmus Ristolainen (No. 8) and Nikita Zadorov (No. 16). Michal Neuvirth and Jhonas Enroth have shown flashes of being able to carry the load as a No. 1 goaltender. It won't be easy, but with a mix of solid veterans and young, energetic players, combined with a coach who specializes in maximizing his players' talents, it could add up to a memorable run for a wild-card spot.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 01:57 PM

Emrick: Devils without Brodeur will 'seem strange'

NBC broadcaster Mike "Doc" Emrick admitted it's going to be odd not seeing goaltender Martin Brodeur in a New Jersey Devils jersey for the first time in 23 seasons.

"It will seem strange, but there's always that handoff," Emrick said. "The same question was raised when Steve Yzerman wouldn't be in Detroit anymore. Who takes over? As it turns out, it was Nicklas Lidstrom, not only as captain but as the face of the franchise.

"So that will be the intriguing thing; who will be the new face in New Jersey?"

2014-15 SEASON PREVIEW

Team-by-team season previews

At the end of last season, Brodeur cited a desire to play more games and that he would explore the free agent market to land with a team willing to provide that request. But since becoming an unrestricted free agent July 1, Brodeur has yet to sign a contract. At this stage, it appears the 42-year-old will be a spectator while awaiting another opportunity at the outset.

"I have been wondering who would find work first: Ray Shero, Dan Bylsma or Martin Brodeur," Emrick said Wednesday. "I think my answer is Marty because he'd be one of the first one or two No. 1 goalies out there if another goes down [by injury]."

Brodeur went 19-14-6 in 39 games with the Devils last season, and Cory Schneider, who becomes the starter this season, finished 16-15-12 in 45 games.

Emrick, who did the play-by-play for New Jersey for 21 years that featured Brodeur as he set numerous records, acknowledged it will be an unusual situation for the Devils.

"Whenever the jersey retirement is, that will be quite a ceremony, and if he winds up on another team and comes back to play in New Jersey, that will be rather awesome too," Emrick said. "I guess every franchise has this where a player that goes two decades comes back, so what happens?"

Brodeur, who holds NHL records in the regular season for career games (1,258), wins (687), shutouts (124) and most 40-win seasons (eight), won the Stanley Cup three times with the Devils (1995, 2000, 2003) and lost in the Stanley Cup Final twice (2001, 2012). He won the Vezina Trophy as the League's best goaltender four times (2003, 2004, 2007, 2008).

"I know that [Brodeur] provided me and a lot of Devils fans with a lot of lifetime thrills just from getting a chance to watch him play whether you were a fan or not," Emrick said. "When you saw that kind of excellence, you realized you were seeing something very special. We wish him well, but it will be unusual won't it? This arena (Prudential Center) has never seen him not as a regular guy."

**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 02:01 PM

Key questions facing Western Conference teams

With the start of the season a week away, NHL teams are working feverishly to figure out how to patch holes and put the right faces in the right places.

It's not easy. Even the best teams have questions that have to be answered, hopefully before the season opens.

Here's a look at a key question facing each team in the Western Conference:

Anaheim Ducks

Can a team without experience in goal win the Stanley Cup?

2014-15 SEASON PREVIEW

Team-by-team season previews

The Ducks appear to have all the pieces in place to make a long playoff run, as long as their goaltending holds up. General manager Bob Murray and coach Bruce Boudreau are banking on a pair of kids, John Gibson and Frederik Andersen, to carry the load in goal. Andersen had an excellent rookie season while splitting time with since-departed Jonas Hiller, and Gibson's short stint showed why he's regarded as one of hockey's best young goaltenders. Veteran backup Jason LaBarbera is on hand for emergencies, but the Ducks figure to go as far as their kid goalies can take them.

Arizona Coyotes

Who's going to put the puck in the net?

The Coyotes bought out center Mike Ribeiro and let forward Radim Vrbata leave as a free agent, removing two of their top-five point producers from last season. The biggest import is forward Sam Gagner, who in seven seasons with the Edmonton Oilers never topped 19 goals or 49 points. Coach Dave Tippett hopes rookies like 2013 first-round pick Max Domi are ready for the NHL and that young players such as Mikkel Boedker can take the next step. The Coyotes get more offense from their blue line than most teams, but they'll need more firepower up front to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2012.

Calgary Flames

Will Jonas Hiller's arrival shore up the goaltending?

The Flames never found a full-time No. 1 goaltender last season; not surprisingly, they struggled to keep the puck out of their net. New general manager Brad Treliving hopes he fixed that problem by landing Hiller as a free agent. Hiller became the odd man out in Anaheim when the Ducks opted to use their two young goaltenders, Frederik Andersen and John Gibson, but his save percentage has never been below .910 in seven NHL seasons, far better than the Flames' team mark of .899 in 2013-14. If Hiller can match his career mark of .916, the Flames will be much tougher to score on.

Chicago Blackhawks

How much does Brad Richards have left in the tank?

The cap-strapped Blackhawks made only one major offseason move: They brought in Richards on a one-year, $2 million contract with the idea he will be the second-line center, a position coach Joel Quenneville has tried for years to fill. Richards, 34, became a free agent after the New York Rangers bought out the final six years of his contract not long after he helped them make the Stanley Cup Final. During the playoffs, Richards appeared to have lost a step, but the Blackhawks' depth and talent up front should enable them to maximize his assets (hockey smarts, passing skills) and minimize any liabilities.

Colorado Avalanche

Was last season a fluke or a harbinger of better things to come?

The Avalanche came out of nowhere to win the Central Division under new coach Patrick Roy. Colorado had plenty of speed and skill and the Avalanche were one of the NHL's most exciting teams. But they won the division despite being outshot by 3.2 shots per game and allowing an average of 32.7 shots on goal, the most of any team that qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Semyon Varlamov (.927 save percentage) was a Vezina Trophy finalist last season, but unless the Avalanche tighten up defensively, they're risking a significant drop in a tight Western Conference playoff race.

Dallas Stars

Will adding Jason Spezza get them to the next level?

The Stars took a giant leap forward last season, then helped themselves again this summer when they landed Spezza, who had asked the Ottawa Senators to trade him. With Tyler Seguin ensconced as the No. 1 center, Spezza slides into the No. 2 role, where he should thrive because he likely won't face the opposition's best checkers. The Stars also brought in forward Ales Hemsky, a free agent who found instant chemistry with Spezza in Ottawa after being acquired at the NHL Trade Deadline. Don't be surprised if Spezza, who's entering the final year of his contract, has a big season and helps the Stars win a playoff series for the first time since 2008.

Edmonton Oilers

Will they ever put it all together?

The Oilers have spent the past few years collecting an array of high draft picks (Taylor Hall, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Nail Yakupov were the first players taken in 2010, '11 and '12, respectively). But they don't have much to show for it. Edmonton hasn't made the playoffs since advancing to the Stanley Cup Final in 2006 and hasn't finished higher than 24th in the overall standings in the past five seasons. The Oilers tend to have a couple of games every season in which everything goes right and they blow an opponent out of the water; however, there are too many nights when they lose the puck-possession battle and spend the night fishing pucks out of their net. Second-year coach Dallas Eakins has to find a cure for his team's struggles in its own zone to get the Oilers off the non-playoff treadmill.

Los Angeles Kings

Can they avoid a Stanley Cup hangover?

General manager Dean Lombardi made few changes to a cast that won three Game 7s on the road before beating the Rangers in a five-game Final for the Kings' second Cup in three seasons. There's size, skill and depth up and down the lineup. Still, the Kings haven't been world-beaters during the regular season. They finished eighth in the Western Conference in 2011-12 and third in the Pacific Division last season, forcing them to start every series except the one against the Rangers on the road. Expect coach Darryl Sutter to try to squeeze a few more points out of his troops during the regular season to make next spring's journey a little easier.

Minnesota Wild

The Wild got to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs last spring despite playing musical goaltenders. Minnesota had five goalies win at least one regular-season game, and the two goaltenders that saw action in the playoffs weren't on the roster at the start of the season. With Josh Harding sidelined by a broken foot, veteran Niklas Backstrom will be challenged by Darcy Kuemper, who played well after Backstrom and Harding were lost for the season before he also got hurt. The Wild also brought in Ilya Bryzgalov, who wound up playing in the second-round loss to the Blackhawks, on a pro tryout contract. The Wild have the ingredients to take the next step -- if the goaltending comes through.

Nashville Predators

Is this franchise ready for a culture change?

For the first time since Nashville entered the NHL in 1998, someone other than Barry Trotz will be behind the bench. Peter Laviolette, who had success with the New York Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers, and won a Cup with the Carolina Hurricanes, preaches an up-tempo, attacking style the likes of which has never been seen in Music City. Laviolette will have more success in his effort to change the culture if starting goaltender Pekka Rinne is healthy again after missing most of last season following hip surgery.

St. Louis Blues

Have they made up enough ground on the Kings and Blackhawks to be a Cup contender?

St. Louis has been one of the NHL's best regular-season teams during the past three seasons, only to come up short against either the Kings or Blackhawks in the playoffs. A first-round loss to Chicago last spring persuaded GM Doug Armstrong to open his wallet for free-agent Paul Stastny, who will be counted on to center the first line. The Blues have plenty of speed, skill and size, and they're hoping the goaltending tandem of Brian Elliott and rookie Jake Allen is up to the task of helping them take the next step.

San Jose Sharks
The Sharks collapsed against the Kings in the Stanley Cup Playoffs and Joe Thornton lost the captaincy this offseason, so there are many questions surrounding the team as the regular season nears. (Photo: Scott Levy/NHLI)

Are they retooling or rebuilding?

Losing a playoff series after winning the first three games can be upsetting. GM Doug Wilson said the Sharks would be "a tomorrow team" when he spoke not long after San Jose saw a 3-0 series lead against the Kings turn into a seven-game defeat. But fans who were expecting a shakeup are probably disappointed: Three veterans (defensemen Dan Boyle and Brad Stuart, and forward Marty Havlat) were traded, bought out or allowed to leave via free agency. The rest of the cast that piled up 111 regular-season points is back, though there's likely to be a new captain and alternates after Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau had their letters taken away.

Vancouver Canucks

Was last season an aberration?

John Tortorella's lone season as coach saw the Canucks miss the playoffs for the first time since 2008, triggering a shake-up that saw a complete overhaul in the front office, a new coach (Willie Desjardins), a new No. 1 goaltender (Ryan Miller) and a trade that sent No. 2 center Ryan Kesler to Anaheim. Henrik Sedin and Daniel Sedin are coming off their worst seasons in more than a decade, and even the addition of Radim Vrbata and a bounce-back effort by Alexandre Burrows won't make the Canucks an offensive powerhouse. But a bounce-back season from the Sedins and a solid performance by Miller could give the Canucks a chance to compete for a playoff berth.

Winnipeg Jets

Can Paul Maurice make a difference behind the bench?

The Jets perked up when Maurice took over as coach after Claude Noel was fired in January, but not enough to get into the playoffs. Maurice sent his players home for the summer with a warning that training camp would be grueling as he tries to improve their conditioning and fitness. Regardless of what kind of shape they're in, the Jets will look pretty much the same as they did last season, with few free-agent signings and not a lot of young players expected to crack the lineup of a franchise that has made the postseason once in its history.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 02:02 PM

Who's on the hot seat in the Western Conference

With the start of the regular season a week away, the pressure is starting to build for some players who know they'll have to be big-time producers for their teams to improve or contend.

Here's a look at a player from each of the 14 teams in the Western Conference who'll be under pressure to perform as soon as the puck drops:

Ryan Kesler, Anaheim Ducks -- The Ducks got the No. 2 center they were looking for when they landed Kesler prior to the NHL Draft in June. Matching the 41 goals he scored with the Vancouver Canucks in 2010-11 might be asking too much, but the Ducks need him to provide a consistent offensive threat from the second line to keep opponents from ganging up on top guns Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. He should also provide a spark for a power play that was 22nd in the NHL last season (16.0 percent).

2014-15 SEASON PREVIEW

Team-by-team season previews

Sam Gagner, Arizona Coyotes -- With Mike Ribeiro and Radim Vrbata gone, the Coyotes need Gagner to become the kind of scoring threat he was expected to be when the Edmonton Oilers took him with the sixth pick in the 2007 NHL Draft. Gagner never had more than 18 goals or 49 points in seven seasons with Edmonton and is coming off his poorest season (10 goals, 37 points in 67 games). The offensively challenged Coyotes need Gagner to have a breakout season if they hope to return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Sean Monahan, Calgary Flames -- Calgary's top pick in the 2013 NHL Draft played for the Flames as an 18-year-old and didn't look out of place. He was second on the team with 22 goals and showed a deft touch in shootouts. With leading goal-scorer Mike Cammalleri having departed as a free agent, the Flames need Monahan to build on his rookie success and avoid the dreaded sophomore slump.

Brad Richards, Chicago Blackhawks -- Despite having little financial maneuverability, the Blackhawks were able to add Richards, who's being counted on to fill the longstanding hole as No. 2 center. With the talent on hand in Chicago, Richards doesn't have to be a star. However, he does have to provide more offense than the Blackhawks were getting from that role last season. A solid season by Richards could get the Blackhawks back to the Stanley Cup Final.

Semyon Varlamov, Colorado Avalanche -- For all the young talent and offensive ability in Colorado, the player who was the biggest factor in the Avalanche winning the Central Division title was Varlamov, a Vezina Trophy finalist despite playing for a team that was outshot on a regular basis. Coach Patrick Roy will have to tighten up the defense, but any drop-off in play by Varlamov could prove fatal to Colorado's hopes of repeating in the powerful Central Division.

Jason Spezza, Dallas Stars -- Spezza got his wish when the Ottawa Senators, the only team he'd ever played for, shipped him to Dallas. He figures to slot in perfectly as the No. 2 center behind Tyler Seguin, and the Stars even signed free-agent forward Ales Hemsky, who showed late-season chemistry with Spezza in Ottawa. A healthy Spezza, motivated by playing for a new contract, should give the improving Stars a huge second-line scoring boost.

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Edmonton Oilers -- It's been three years since the Oilers took Nugent-Hopkins with the first pick in the 2011 NHL Draft, but they have yet to see more than flashes of the skill that made him the top pick three years ago. He did have 19 goals and 56 points in 80 games last season after missing the end of the 2012-13 season with a shoulder injury that required surgery. The Oilers need the 21-year-old to take the next step in order to have a chance to make the playoffs for the first time since 2006.

Marian Gaborik, Los Angeles Kings -- Gaborik was the missing piece for the Kings after coming to Los Angeles at the NHL Trade Deadline. He fit in perfectly with Anze Kopitar and led the Kings in goals (14) during their run to the Stanley Cup. That earned Gaborik a long-term contract; however, he has to prove that he can still produce during the regular season -- he had 12 and 11 goals in the past two and has battled a number of injuries. The Kings need him to generate goals in the regular season the way he did last spring.

Thomas Vanek, Minnesota Wild -- Vanek took less money and a shorter contract to come "home" to Minnesota, where the native of Austria played his college hockey. He has averaged more than 30 goals during his nine NHL seasons and is being counted on to fill a top-six role on a team that historically has trouble putting the puck in the net. The coaching staff is especially eager to see what Vanek can do on the power play; he's averaged more than 12 power-play goals per season.

Pekka Rinne, Nashville Predators -- The Predators got a long look at life without Rinne last season and they didn't like what they saw. Rinne missed all but 24 games due to complications after hip surgery, and none of his replacements were able to fill his skates. Rinne struggled after his late-season return in Nashville, but he was the MVP at the IIHF World Championship in May and has had a full summer's rest to heal. The Predators, who have Rinne under contract for five more seasons, hope he's primed for a comeback.

Logan Couture, San Jose Sharks -- There's a changing of the guard taking place in San Jose, where coach Todd McLellan had the Sharks go into training camp with no captain or alternates. It's part of the rebuilding plan after last spring's playoff collapse against the Kings. Don't be surprised if the "C" eventually winds up going to Couture, one of the NHL's top young forwards. He seems ready to accept an increased leadership role to go along with being a 30-goal scorer and a reliable player in his own zone.

Brian Elliott, St. Louis Blues -- The Blues traded Jaroslav Halak to get Ryan Miller, then opted not to re-sign Miller after another early playoff departure. Instead, they gave a three-year contract to Elliott, who is 55-24-7 in his three seasons with St. Louis and has had a goals-against average of less than 2.00 in two of those seasons. Elliott will be getting his first chance at a No. 1 job, but he'll be doing it for a team that has Stanley Cup aspirations.

Nick Bonino, Vancouver Canucks -- Bonino was the biggest piece the Canucks received from the Ducks in the trade that sent Kesler to Anaheim. He's coming off a career season (22 goals, 49 points) but averaged only 16:13 of ice time on a team that rotated its centers freely behind Getzlaf. In Vancouver, Bonino will likely inherit the role of No. 2 center behind Henrik Sedin, meaning he'll have to handle more ice time and will be asked to play in tougher situations.

Ondrej Pavelec, Winnipeg Jets -- The Jets have yet to make the playoffs in their three seasons since moving from Atlanta. That streak is likely to reach four unless Pavelec steps up his play significantly. His 3.01 goals-against average and .901 save percentage were 45th among qualifying goaltenders, and his career-best save percentage is .914, in 2010-11. The only alternative in goal is rookie Michael Hutchinson, so for better or worse, the job is Pavelec's.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 02:04 PM

How West's playoff outsiders get back in this season
Thursday, 10.02.2014 / 3:00 AM / 2014-2015 Season Preview
By Adam Kimelman - NHL.com Deputy Managing Editor
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NHL.com continues its preview of the 2014-15 season, which begins Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Summer may be the most enjoyable season for many people, but when it comes to NHL teams, they want to put off the start to their summers as long as possible.

But for the six Western Conference teams that missed out on the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoff party, their goal since the second week of April has been figuring out how to extend their seasons into May -- or even June, like the Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles Kings.

So how can the teams that missed the fun turn into postseason hits? As training camps open this month, NHL.com today examines why fans of the unlucky six can hold onto their playoff hopes:

ARIZONA COYOTES

2014-15 SEASON PREVIEW

Team-by-team season previews
By NHL.com Staff
With the 2014-15 season beginning Oct. 8, get up to date with NHL.com's in-depth previews of all 30 teams. READ MORE ›

Key questions facing Eastern Conference teams
Who's on the hot seat in the Eastern Conference
How East's playoff outsiders get back in this season
Follow NHL.com's 2014 Training Camp blog

MORE 2014-15 PREVIEW STORIES ›
Last season: 37-30-15, 89 points, two points out of final wild-card spot in the West.

How it ended: On March 27 the Coyotes won two straight to move into the conference's final wild-card spot, but one win in their final eight games (1-4-3) left them outside the top eight.

Offseason changes: One year after signing Mike Ribeiro to a four-year contract, the Coyotes bought him out in late June and replaced him by trading for Sam Gagner. They lost skill up front when forward Radim Vrbata left for the Vancouver Canucks, but a pair of recent first-round picks could replace him. Max Domi, the 12th pick of the 2013 NHL Draft, may be ready to make the jump straight from junior hockey, while Henrik Samuelsson, the 27th pick of the 2012 draft, will start the season in the American Hockey League but isn't far from being NHL-ready. Forward David Moss was re-signed and the club added depth and versatility to their bottom-six forward group with Joe Vitale and B.J. Crombeen. Devan Dubnyk was signed to be the backup to goaltender Mike Smith after Thomas Greiss departed in free agency. Off the ice, the Coyotes lost assistant general manager Brad Treliving to the Calgary Flames but replaced him with former Buffalo Sabres general manager Darcy Regier.

Why they could get in: With coach Dave Tippett's tight defensive schemes backstopped by Smith, the Coyotes have the foundation needed to climb the standings in the tough Western Conference. The offense will be generated by two top defensemen, Keith Yandle, last season's leading scorer, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, who was fifth among all defensemen last season with 15 goals. They'll have a solid group of forwards to get the puck, led by veterans Shane Doan, Mikkel Boedker, Martin Hanzal and Gagner. Samuelsson and Domi were junior stars who helped their teams reach the Memorial Cup last season and could be close to making a similar impact in the NHL. Breaking through in the West won't be easy, but the Coyotes were there late in the season; it wouldn't be a surprise to see them grab a spot and not let go.

NASHVILLE PREDATORS

Last season: 38-32-12, 88 points, three points out of final wild-card spot in the West.

How it ended: The Predators were four points out of a wild-card spot coming out of the Olympic break but seven regulation losses in 11 games when the season restarted left them too big a hole to climb out.

Offseason changes: After 15 seasons the Predators will have a new coach for the first time, with Peter Laviolette replacing Barry Trotz. That means a new, up-tempo offensive philosophy and general manager David Poile spent the offseason adding offensive-minded parts. He set his focus up the middle, signing Olli Jokinen, Mike Ribeiro and Derek Roy. Jokinen is a seven-time 20-goal scorer; Ribeiro has averaged 62 points per season for the past 10 seasons; Roy had four straight 20-goal seasons before a series of injuries slowed him the past four seasons. Poile also got someone for those new centers to pass to, acquiring 40-goal scorer James Neal in a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins, in exchange for forwards Patric Hornqvist and Nick Spaling. The signing of defenseman Anton Volchenkov adds a physical, shot-blocking presence to the defense corps. The only significant loss of the offseason was veteran forward Mike Fisher, who will miss at least the first two months of the season recovering from surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon.

Why they could get in: Goaltender Pekka Rinne showed he is recovered completely from the hip issues that plagued him last season by winning the MVP at the 2014 IIHF World Championship, backstopping Finland to a silver medal. Norris Trophy finalist Shea Weber heads one of the deepest, most skilled defense corps in the League, one equally capable at both ends of the ice. Poile has admitted his forwards are a work in progress, but there are quality pieces to choose from, led by Neal and Ribeiro, who were linemates with the Dallas Stars, and emerging younger players like Calle Jarnkrok and Filip Forsberg. The Ribeiro and Roy signings come with question marks, but Ribeiro has said his off-ice issues are behind him and Roy said he feels strong after spending the summer training with former player Gary Roberts. One of the bigger beneficiaries of Laviolette's hiring could be Matt Cullen, whose best seasons came when he played for Laviolette with the Carolina Hurricanes. A healthy Rinne combined with a more robust offense could add up to a wild-card spot for the Predators.

WINNIPEG JETS

Last season: 37-35-10, 84 points, seven points out of final wild-card spot in the West.

How it ended: The Jets went 9-3-1 after Paul Maurice replaced Claude Noel as coach Jan. 12 to get within two points of a wild-card spot, but won only nine of their final 22 games.

Offseason changes: It was a quiet summer for the Jets, with their biggest move the signing of center Mathieu Perreault. Michael Hutchinson will replace Al Montoya as the backup goalie. Olli Jokinen and Devin Setoguchi were allowed to leave in free agency.

Why they could get in: Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff believes the best way to build a winner is through smart drafting and solid development, and his plan could be close to paying off. Center Mark Scheifele, the team's first draft pick after the move to Winnipeg, looks like a future franchise player. Defenseman Jacob Trouba, their first pick in the 2012 NHL Draft (No. 9), emerged as the best all-around defenseman in a group that also includes the steady Tobias Enstrom and Zach Bogosian. Joshua Morrissey, the Jets' top pick in 2013 (No. 13), could earn a spot in that group this season. The addition of Perreault makes the Jets solid down the middle with Scheifele and Bryan Little. Blake Wheeler, Evander Kane, Andrew Ladd and Dustin Byfuglien, again a full-time forward, are proven goal scorers, and 2014 first-round pick (No. 9) Nikolaj Ehlers could get the chance to join them. It's a potent group that should score enough to keep the heat off goaltender Ondrej Pavelec and have the Jets competing for a wild-card spot.

VANCOUVER CANUCKS

Last season: 36-35-11, 83 points, eight points out of final wild-card spot in the West.

How it ended: The pivot point for the Canucks' season occurred Jan. 18. Vancouver entered in the first wild-card spot, but a game with the Calgary Flames that night featured a line brawl off the opening faceoff and coach John Tortorella trying to get into the Flames locker room after the first period. Tortorella was suspended 15 days and the Canucks won 11 of their final 32 games.
The Vancouver Canucks signed goalie Ryan Miller to a three-year contract this offseason in hopes of finally bringing stability to the position. (@VanCanucks)

Offseason changes: There's an entirely new structure to the front office, now headed by president of hockey operations Trevor Linden. General manager Jim Benning came on board in May and hired coach Willie Desjardins in June to replace Tortorella, who had been fired after the season ended. Benning's first big roster decision was trading Ryan Kesler to the Anaheim Ducks for center Nick Bonino, defenseman Luca Sbisa and two draft picks, including the 24th pick in the 2014 draft. Benning also added to his forward depth in trades that brought in Linden Vey from the Kings and Derek Dorsett from the New York Rangers. In free agency goaltender Ryan Miller signed a three-year contract and forward Radim Vrbata was signed for two years, likely to fill out the top line with Henrik Sedin and Daniel Sedin. Also added for depth was forward Dustin Jeffrey and defenseman Bobby Sanguinetti. Defensemen Yannick Weber and Christopher Tanev were re-signed, as was forward Zack Kassian. Forward David Booth received a compliance buyout of his contract, defenseman Jason Garrison was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning, and forwards Mike Santorelli, Jordan Schroeder and Zac Dalpe were allowed to leave in free agency.

Why they could get in: Desjardins is coming off a Calder Cup championship and has shown an ability to connect with his players at all of his previous coaching stops. After the tumult of Tortorella, a calmer, friendlier approach will make for a better locker room. Miller upgrades the goaltending from the unproven tandem of Jacob Markstrom and Eddie Lack with whom the Canucks ended last season. Vrbata will be a solid addition to the top line, and Bonino, who had 22 goals with the Ducks last season, will add a scoring element to the second line, where he'll likely skate with a healthy Alexandre Burrows. There also should be an influx of skill and youth with young forwards Brendan Gaunce, Bo Horvat and Hunter Shinkaruk ready to compete for full-time NHL spots. Kevin Bieksa remains the best player on a physical, stingy defense that got a bit nastier with the addition of Sbisa. The Canucks have the talent to get back to the postseason, and a coach who could make a run for a wild-card spot that much easier.

CALGARY FLAMES

Last season: 35-40-7, 77 points, 14 points out of final wild-card spot in the West.

How it ended: The Flames won three of their first five games but then three in their next 15. They were a .500 team the rest of the season.

Offseason changes: Brad Treliving was hired as general manager and used free agency to begin to put his stamp on the organization. He signed goaltender Jonas Hiller, and added a big helping of toughness with the addition of defenseman Deryk Engelland and a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks for forward Brandon Bollig. Mason Raymond, who had a renaissance season with 19 goals for the Toronto Maple Leafs, upgrades the offense, as does three-time 20-goal scorer Devin Setoguchi. Sam Bennett, the Flames' first pick (No. 4) at the 2014 NHL Draft, could be another player added to the forward group, which lost leading goal-scorer Mike Cammalleri in free agency.

Why they could get in: The Flames could be one of the youngest teams in the League, but that youth has pretty big potential. Sean Monahan, the Flames' 2013 first-round pick (No. 6), looks like a star in the making after scoring 22 goals last season. Johnny Gaudreau went from a college hockey star to scoring a goal in his only NHL game; he'll have all season in 2014-15 to showcase his skill. Bennett, voted the best pro prospect in the Canadian Hockey League last season and the No. 1 player on Central Scouting's final ranking, could have a big impact this season. They'll be supported by Raymond, Setoguchi, Sven Baertschi, Mikael Backlund and Jiri Hudler in the quest to improve the offense. Hiller raises the bar on goaltending and has a solid defense in front of him led by the underrated Mark Giordano. Coach Bob Hartley knows how to manage talent, so if the young players produce and the goaltending performs as it should, the Flames could be in the hunt for a wild-card spot.

EDMONTON OILERS

Last season: 29-44-9, 67 points, 24 points out of final wild-card spot in the West.

How it ended: With nine wins in their final 22 games, the Oilers finished with the fewest points in the conference for the third time in five seasons.
Benoit Pouliot scored 10 points in the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs before signing a five-year, $20 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers. (Getty Images)

Offseason changes: General manager Craig MacTavish went big this offseason, literally and figuratively. He signed power forward Benoit Pouliot and giant defensemen Mark Fayne and Keith Aulie in free agency. A trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning brought in forward Teddy Purcell in exchange for center Sam Gagner, and defenseman Nikita Nikitin was acquired in a trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets. And with the third pick in the 2014 NHL Draft the Oilers selected center Leon Draisaitl. Pouliot, Fayne, Aulie, Purcell, Nikitin and Draisaitl all stand 6-foot-2 or taller; the three defensemen are at least 6-3. Defenseman Jeff Petry, forward Luke Gazdic and goaltender Richard Bachman were all re-signed, and defenseman Taylor Fedun and goaltender Jason LaBarbera were allowed to leave in free agency. Forward Ryan Smyth retired.

Why they could get in: In Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle, David Perron, Nail Yakupov and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, the Oilers have the skill. Now they have size to open space for those players to shine. Eberle had 28 goals last season, as did Perron in his first season with the Oilers. Hall had 27 goals and Nugent-Hopkins had a career-best 56 points. Add to them Draisaitl, Purcell and Pouliot, who had a solid run for the Rangers in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and suddenly the Oilers have a number of scoring options for coach Dallas Eakins to put together. Andrew Ference, Justin Schultz, Fayne, Petry and Nikitin are a strong defense corps that will be supported by a number of talented younger players, including Martin Marincin, Oscar Klefbom and 2013 first-round pick (No. 7) Darnell Nurse. The goaltending should be solid with Ben Scrivens and Viktor Fasth. If the additions on offense jell with the talent already in place, and the improved defense is able to make life harder on opposing forwards, the Oilers could grab a wild-card spot and a return to the playoffs for the first time since 2006.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 02:16 PM

**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 02:21 PM

2014-15 Predictions

October 7, 2014

Handicapper Stanley Cup Eastern Conference Western Conference Best Bet - Point Total

Alex Smith Anaheim Ducks Montreal Canadiens Anaheim Ducks San Jose Sharks Under 101 ½

Bill Marzano Anaheim Ducks Pittsburgh Penguins Anaheim Ducks Tampa Bay Lightning Under 99 ½

Don Anthony St. Louis Blues Boston Bruins St. Louis Blues Washington Capitals Over 93 ½

Dave Cokin Boston Bruins Boston Bruins Chicago Blackhawks Carolina Hurricanes Over 79.5

Gary Bart Colorado Avalanche Boston Bruins Colorado Avalanche Colorado Avalanche Over 93 ½

Joe Williams Chicago Blackhawks Boston Bruins Chicago Blackhawks Minnesota Wild Under 101 ½

Kevin Rogers San Jose Sharks Pittsburgh Penguins San Jose Sharks Toronto Maple Leafs Over 88 ½

**StarDust Bum** · 10-07-2014, 02:46 PM

NHL

Tuesday, October 7

Canucks listed as slight road faves vs. Calgary

The 2013-14 NHL season was not a kind one for the Vancouver Canucks and Calgary Flames, but they'll each have a clean slate for the 2014-15 campaign which kicks off featuring a battle of the two clubs in Calgary Wednesday.

The new-look Canucks are opened as slight -102 road faves for the matchup at Guts.com. As of 1:07 p.m. AST Tuesday, that line has since moved to -106.

Leafs open as home faves against Habs

The Toronto Maple Leafs host the Montreal Canadiens in an Original Six clash to kick off the 2014-15 NHL season Wednesday.

Guts.com opened the Leafs as -128 home favorites Early Tuesday morning. At 12:57 p.m. AST Tuesday it dropped to -123, before moving back up to -127 faves just 10 minutes later.

Book opens Bruins as heavy favorites vs. Flyers

The Boston Bruins, fresh off finishing first overall in the Eastern Conference in 2013-14, are getting early respect from oddsmakers in their first game of the 2014-15 season against the Philadelphia Flyers at TD Garden.

Guts.com opened the B's as -192 faves versus the Broad St. Bullies early Tuesday morning. That line has gone up to -200 since 1:17 p.m. AST.

Flyers struggling mightily in Beantown

The Philadelphia Flyers invade TD Garden for a season-opening date with the Boston Bruins Wednesday - an arena that hasn't been exactly friendly territory for the Broad Street Bullies.

The Flyers are just 1-6 in their last seven games in Boston. From a totals standpoint, the two clubs have been a boon for Over bettors, as the Over has gone 4-0 in their last four matchups.

Kings owning Sharks at Staples Center

The San Jose Sharks travel south and face the defending Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings in the first night of NHL action Wednesday, and trends are showing the Kings have been dominating their state rivals at the Staples Center.

San Jose is an ugly 1-10 in their last 11 games in Los Angeles. The two California-based clubs have been keeping the scorekeepers busy in recent games, as the Over has gone 5-1-1 in their last seven matchups.

Over bettors profiting in Habs-Leafs tilts

It's a new NHL season, and front and center on opening night Wednesday is an Original Six rivalry between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens.

Last season, the two clubs participated in quite a few high-scoring games. The Over has gone a perfect 5-0 in their last five meetings.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-08-2014, 01:27 PM

Pens' Malkin "50/50" for season opener

October 7, 2014

PITTSBURGH (AP) - Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin says he may be ready to go in time for Thursday's season opener against Anaheim.

The former MVP skated with his teammates for the first time during training camp on Tuesday. Malkin sat out the first two-plus weeks of camp with an undisclosed injury. He called the issue ''minor'' and said he's in ''great shape'' but cautioned it's ''50/50'' on whether he'll be able to skate against the Ducks.

The Penguins will experiment with Malkin whenever he returns. Malkin will play without longtime linemate James Neal after the Penguins traded Neal to Nashville on the first night of the NHL Draft back in June. First-year coach Mike Johnson says he may use Malkin, a center, at right wing with Brandon Sutter and Pascal Dupuis.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-08-2014, 01:46 PM

NHL Pacific Division betting preview: Kings reign, but don't count out Coyotes

Here's a comprehensive look at teams to watch for betting purposes in the NHL's Pacific Division:

Favorite
Los Angeles Kings (+180)

The Kings enter the season as the defending champions and return the core of that team as favorites to win the Pacific crown. Few teams in the NHL boast Los Angeles' incredible depth, with Anze Kopitar, Marian Gaborik and Jeff Carter leading a balanced offense and Drew Doughty guiding one of the league's stingiest defenses. Jonathan Quick is working his way back from wrist surgery, but should be full strength soon and remains an elite goalie.

Value Underdog
Vancouver Canucks (+800)

New goaltender, same challenge. Ryan Miller will be called upon to lead the Canucks back to glory and it won't be an easy task given there's little offensive depth behind the Sedin-led first line while the blueline faces similar issues beyond Alex Edler, Kevin Bieksa and Dan Hamhuis. But the Sedins are a potent combo punch, newcomer Radim Vrbata has a strong track record on the offensive end and Miller is capable of stealing games by himself.

Live Long Shot
Arizona Coyotes (+1,000)

The Coyotes often get overlooked by preseason pundits, only to emerge as pleasant surprises year after year. Don't be surprised to see the same thing happen in 2014-15. Arizona bolstered its offense with the addition of Sam Gagner, while the defensive tandem of Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Keith Yandle ranks among the best in the NHL. Mike Smith remains a star in net and gives the Coyotes a chance to win every night. Here's your division sleeper.

Over Team
Anaheim Ducks

Fans at the Honda Center should see their fair share of high-scoring affairs this season. The Ducks enter the campaign as the reigning NHL scoring leaders, and have added Ryan Kesler to a Top 6 that already includes elite threats Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. Cam Fowler leads an offensive-minded defense corps while the goaltending troika of Frederik Andersen, Jason LaBarbera and John Gibson may struggle to keep pucks out of the net.

Under Team
Calgary Flames

The Flames may wind up in better position this season than they did in 2013-14, but it won't be because of an increase in scoring. Calgary's offense remains unproven and will likely see 2014-15 as more of a transition period as the young players become more accustomed to one another. The biggest area of improvement comes in goal, where Jonas Hiller takes the reins of a Calgary back-end that should finish better than its 24th-place showing last season.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-08-2014, 01:47 PM

NHL
Dunkel

San Jose at Los Angeles
The Kings open the regular season tonight against a San Jose team that is 1-10 in its last 11 games in Los Angeles. Los Angeles is the pick (-135) according to Dunkel, which has the Kings favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Los Angeles (-135). Here are all of today's picks.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8

Game 1-2: Montreal at Toronto (7:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Montreal 13.109; Toronto 11.542
Dunkel Line & Total: Montreal by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Toronto (-120); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Montreal (+100); Over

Game 3-4: Philadelphia at Boston (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 10.865; Boston 13.204
Dunkel Line & Total: Boston by 2 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Boston (-180); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-180); Under

Game 5-6: San Jose at Los Angeles (10:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Jose 11.429; Los Angeles 12.876
Dunkel Line & Total: Los Angeles by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line & Total: Los Angeles (-135); 5
Dunkel Pick: Los Angeles (-135); Over

Game 7-8: Vancouver at Calgary (7:30 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Vancouver 11.612; Calgary 10.203
Dunkel Line & Total: Vancouver by 1 1/2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Vancouver (-115); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Vancouver (-115); Under

NHL
Long Sheet

Wednesday, October 8

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MONTREAL (56-33-0-10, 122 pts.) at TORONTO (38-36-0-8, 84 pts.) - 10/8/2014, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MONTREAL is 14-7 ATS (+21.3 Units) in road games vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 5-4 (+1.7 Units) against the spread versus MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
TORONTO is 5-4-0 straight up against MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
8 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+7.1 Units)

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PHILADELPHIA (45-34-0-10, 100 pts.) at BOSTON (61-23-0-10, 132 pts.) - 10/8/2014, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 4-1 (+2.5 Units) against the spread versus PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
BOSTON is 4-1-0 straight up against PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.4 Units)

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SAN JOSE (54-26-0-9, 117 pts.) at LOS ANGELES (62-36-0-10, 134 pts.) - 10/8/2014, 10:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
LOS ANGELES is 12-9 (+4.0 Units) against the spread versus SAN JOSE over the last 3 seasons
LOS ANGELES is 12-9-0 straight up against SAN JOSE over the last 3 seasons
9 of 18 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=-1.9 Units, Under=-0.1 Units)

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VANCOUVER (36-35-0-11, 83 pts.) at CALGARY (35-40-0-7, 77 pts.) - 10/8/2014, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
VANCOUVER is 36-46 ATS (-18.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
VANCOUVER is 9-1 (+7.8 Units) against the spread versus CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
VANCOUVER is 9-1-0 straight up against CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.0 Units)

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NHL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Wednesday, October 8

Hot teams
Not a lot to go on this early in the season, but after a week or so, we'll have good knowledge in this space every day until the Stanley Cup is hoisted next spring.

Cold teams

Series records
-- Montreal won five of last seven games against the Maple Leafs; Canadiens won five of last seven visits to Toronto.
-- Bruins won three in row, 13 of last 16 games against Philly.
-- Kings beat San Jose 4-3 in playoffs LY, after being down 3-0; Sharks lost ten of their last 11 visits to Staples Center.
-- Canucks won their last seven games with Calgary.

Totals
-- Eight of last nine Montreal-Toronto games went over total.
-- Last four Bruin-Flyer games went over the total.
-- Over is 5-1 in last seven San Jose-Los Angeles games.
-- Over is 3-1-1 in Canucks' last five visits to Saddledome.

NHL

Wednesday, October 8

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Trend Report
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7:00 PM
MONTREAL vs. TORONTO
Montreal is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Montreal's last 5 games when playing on the road against Toronto
Toronto is 2-12 SU in its last 14 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toronto's last 5 games when playing at home against Montreal

7:30 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. BOSTON
Philadelphia is 3-13 SU in its last 16 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games when playing Boston
Boston is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Boston's last 5 games when playing Philadelphia

10:00 PM
SAN JOSE vs. LOS ANGELES
San Jose is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Los Angeles
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Jose's last 7 games when playing Los Angeles
Los Angeles is 10-1 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against San Jose
Los Angeles is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games

10:00 PM
VANCOUVER vs. CALGARY
Vancouver is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games
Vancouver is 4-16 SU in its last 20 games on the road
Calgary is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against Vancouver
Calgary is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Vancouver

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NHL

Wednesday, October 8

Canucks listed as slight road faves vs. Calgary

The 2013-14 NHL season was not a kind one for the Vancouver Canucks and Calgary Flames, but they'll each have a clean slate for the 2014-15 campaign which kicks off featuring a battle of the two clubs in Calgary Wednesday.

The new-look Canucks are opened as slight -102 road faves for the matchup at Guts.com. As of 1:07 p.m. AST Tuesday, that line has since moved to -106.

Leafs open as home faves against Habs

The Toronto Maple Leafs host the Montreal Canadiens in an Original Six clash to kick off the 2014-15 NHL season Wednesday.

Guts.com opened the Leafs as -128 home favorites Early Tuesday morning. At 12:57 p.m. AST Tuesday it dropped to -123, before moving back up to -127 faves just 10 minutes later.

Book opens Bruins as heavy favorites vs. Flyers

The Boston Bruins, fresh off finishing first overall in the Eastern Conference in 2013-14, are getting early respect from oddsmakers in their first game of the 2014-15 season against the Philadelphia Flyers at TD Garden.

Guts.com opened the B's as -192 faves versus the Broad St. Bullies early Tuesday morning. That line has gone up to -200 since 1:17 p.m. AST.

Flyers struggling mightily in Beantown

The Philadelphia Flyers invade TD Garden for a season-opening date with the Boston Bruins Wednesday - an arena that hasn't been exactly friendly territory for the Broad Street Bullies.

The Flyers are just 1-6 in their last seven games in Boston. From a totals standpoint, the two clubs have been a boon for Over bettors, as the Over has gone 4-0 in their last four matchups.

Kings owning Sharks at Staples Center

The San Jose Sharks travel south and face the defending Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings in the first night of NHL action Wednesday, and trends are showing the Kings have been dominating their state rivals at the Staples Center.

San Jose is an ugly 1-10 in their last 11 games in Los Angeles. The two California-based clubs have been keeping the scorekeepers busy in recent games, as the Over has gone 5-1-1 in their last seven matchups.

Over bettors profiting in Habs-Leafs tilts

It's a new NHL season, and front and center on opening night Wednesday is an Original Six rivalry between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens.

Last season, the two clubs participated in quite a few high-scoring games. The Over has gone a perfect 5-0 in their last five meetings.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-08-2014, 01:47 PM

NHL

Wednesday, October 8

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NHL Opening Night betting preview
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Montreal Canadiens at Toronto Maple Leafs (-110, 5.5)

A surprising run to the Eastern Conference final last season has only served to raise expectations for the Montreal Canadiens, who open the 2014-15 campaign with a visit to the archrival Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday night. The opposite holds true for the Maple Leafs, who are attempting to erase the memory of a stunning collapse that derailed their postseason hopes. "We're back to square one now," Montreal general manager Marc Bergevin said. "Even though we reached the conference final, it means nothing."

Montreal rode an 11-3-1 finishing kick into the postseason and carried the momentum to playoff-series victories over Tampa Bay and Presidents' Trophy-winning Boston before succumbing to the New York Rangers. Conversely, the Maple Leafs staggered to the wire by dropping 12 of their last 14, but coach Randy Carlyle was quick to note: "I think there is one thing that makes people forget about all those things. It's called winning." Both clubs overhauled their roster with the Canadiens saying goodbye to captain Brian Gionta and Toronto bringing in Hall of Famer Brendan Shanahan as team president.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, TVA Sports, Sportsnet

POWER RANKINGS: Canadiens (-168), Maple Leafs (-150)

ABOUT THE CANADIENS (2013-14: 46-28-8, 3RD IN ATLANTIC): Montreal's Stanley Cup chances ended in Game 1 of the conference final due to an injury to Carey Price, who recorded six shutouts and posted career-best totals for save percentage (.927) and goals-against average (2.32). Former Norris Trophy winner P.K. Subban, who signed an eight-year, $72 million extension in the offseason, and Andrei Markov anchor a defense that permitted 204 goals - the third-lowest total in the East - but questions abound about an offense that produced only 215 tallies. With Max Pacioretty coming off a 39-goal campaign. Montreal is seeking more production from new acquisition PA Parenteau and 2012 No. 3 overall pick Alex Galchenyuk, who was limited to 65 games last season.

ABOUT THE MAPLE LEAFS (2013-14: 38-36-8, 6TH IN ATLANTIC): When starting netminder Jonathan Bernier went down with an injury, Toronto followed suit by dropping eight in a row - including five started by backup James Reimer en route to the 2-12-0 finish. Captain Dion Phaneuf heads a defense that was shredded for 265 goals - the fifth-highest total in the league - and will be banking on second-year blue-liner Morgan Rielly and veteran newcomer Stephane Robidas to stabilize the unit. While the Maple Leafs scored more than three goals only once in their last 14 games, offense is not a problem with Phil Kessel (37 goals) and James van Riemsdyk (30) leading the way - although more is expected from David Clarkson after a disastrous first season in Toronto.

Philadelphia Flyers at Boston Bruins (-184, 5.5)

The Boston Bruins won the Presidents' Trophy last season and were poised for a return trip to the Stanley Cup final before falling victim to a spirited rival. After a premature exit in the second round, the Bruins look to begin the new season on a high when they host the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday. Vezina Trophy winner Tuukka Rask (36-15-6, league-high seven shutouts) and two-time Selke Trophy recipient Patrice Bergeron (team co-leader with 30 goals) return to a Boston club that won 54 games in 2013-14 while also outscoring the Flyers 15-6 during a three-game regular-season sweep.

"We have to get off to a good start," Bergeron said. "We have to establish a connection with all the new players and make sure we're dialed in and that we definitely need to carry on what we've accomplished already." Philadelphia stumbled out of the blocks last season, costing then-coach Peter Laviolette his job while the team sputtered to a franchise-worst 1-7-0 start. Captain Claude Giroux (team-high 58 assists, 86 points) eventually found his way out of a scoring slump to become a finalist for the Hart Trophy while leading the Flyers into the playoffs, where they fell in seven games to the rival New York Rangers in the first round.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, NBCSN

POWER RANKINGS: Flyers (-143), Bruins (-198)

ABOUT THE FLYERS (2013-14: 42-30-10, 3RD IN METROPOLITAN): Suspect goaltending has been the primary talking point for decades on end in the City of Brotherly Love, although Steve Mason did an admirable job quieting the conversation. Mason's 33 wins matched his career high that was set during his Calder Trophy-winning season in Columbus, although he'll likely be under the gun with veteran Kimmo Timonen diagnosed with blood clots in his leg and lungs while Michael Del Zotto and Nick Schultz were the only additions to the blue line. With Jakub Voracek (62 points) and Wayne Simmonds (team-leading 29 goals) coming off career years, new general manager Ron Hextall opted to deal the talented Scott Hartnell to the Blue Jackets for R.J. Umberger, who began his career in Philadelphia.

ABOUT THE BRUINS (2013-14: 54-19-9, 1ST IN ATLANTIC): Boston saw two key departures during the offseason as veteran Jarome Iginla (30 goals) shuffled off to Colorado via free agency and defenseman Johnny Boychuk was dealt to the New York Islanders on Oct. 4. Loui Eriksson, who only scored 10 goals during his first season in Boston, will replace Iginla on the team's vaunted second line with Milan Lucic and David Krejci (team-leading 50 assists and 69 points). Speaking of Krejci, he is nursing an undisclosed injury and is questionable for Wednesday's season opener.

Vancouver Canucks at Calgary Flames (+102, 5.5)

Despite their overall struggles last season, the Vancouver Canucks had no problem against the Calgary Flames. Vancouver looks to continue the trend with a new bench boss as they visit their Pacific Division rival Wednesday in the season opener for both teams. The Canucks won all five meetings with the Flames in 2013-14, needing overtime in the first matchup in Calgary and a shootout in their initial contest in Vancouver while outscoring the Flames 16-8 overall.

The John Tortorella era in Vancouver lasted just one campaign as the ascerbic coach was fired in May and replaced by Willie Desjardins, who won Coach of the Year honors in the Western Hockey League before guiding the American Hockey League's Texas Stars to the Calder Cup championship last season. Bob Hartley enters his third season behind Calgary's bench in search of the club's first playoff appearance since 2008-09. The veteran coach is in the final year of his contract but insists his status will not affect the team. "I'm fine with it and it will not be a distraction," Hartley said.

TV: 10 p.m. ET, RSN, TVA2

POWER RANKINGS: Canucks (-140), Flames (+105)

ABOUT THE CANUCKS (2013-14: 36-35-11, 5TH IN PACIFIC): Tortorella was not the only casualty as a result of Vancouver's disappointing season, as general manager Mike Gillis also was dismissed while veteran center Ryan Kesler - who led the team with 25 goals - and defenseman Jason Garrison were traded to Anaheim and Tampa Bay, respectively. The Canucks received Nick Bonino, blue-liner Luca Sbisa and a handful of draft picks in the deals and also added grit by acquiring Derek Dorsett from the New York Rangers. Also joining Vancouver via free agency over the summer were former Vezina Trophy winner Ryan Miller and Radim Vrbata, who reached the 20-goal mark for the fourth time in his career while with Arizona in 2013-14.

ABOUT THE FLAMES (2013-14: 35-40-7, 6TH IN PACIFIC): Calgary also has a new veteran goaltender as it signed Jonas Hiller to a two-year contract after the Swiss netminder spent his first seven NHL seasons with Anaheim. The Flames produced some promising young forwards last campaign in rookie Sean Monahan (22 goals) and Joe Colborne (10 tallies, 18 assists) and hoped to add another this season in Sam Bennett, but the fourth overall pick in this year's draft is battling a shoulder injury that may require surgery. "I had problems with this shoulder last year," the 18-year-old said. "I didn't think anything of it. I played through it all year. ... We're not 100 percent sure what it is right now." Youngster Johnny Gaudreau made the roster after appearing in one game last season, and the Flames hope he can add instant offense as 2013-14 leading goal scorer Mike Cammalleri (26) moved to New Jersey via free agency.

San Jose Sharks at Los Angeles Kings (-136, 5.5)

The Los Angeles Kings made history at the expense of the San Jose Sharks en route to winning their second Stanley Cup title in three years. After rallying from a three-game deficit to shock the Sharks in last season's first-round series, the Kings look to start the 2014-15 campaign on the right foot when they host their Pacific Division rivals on Wednesday. "We've got basically the same team," Conn Smythe Trophy winner Justin Williams said. "I feel our hunger is going to be exactly where it needs to be because we've felt what it tasted like to have it and to have it taken away from us."

A sour taste has resonated in the mouths of the Sharks, who became the fourth team in NHL history to see a commanding 3-0 lead go by the wayside. "It's a low point," forward Joe Pavelski said of the team's exit. "We (need to) look at ourselves in the mirror and see what we're about." The reflection will offer a different view of the team's blue line as Brad Stuart was traded to Colorado while fellow defenseman Dan Boyle traveled the free-agent route to the New York Rangers, leading to Brent Burns (career-high 22 goals) once again returning to his natural position while Marc-Edouard Vlasic and Justin Braun will have added responsibilities.

TV: 10 p.m. ET, NBCSN

POWER RANKINGS: Sharks (-194), Kings (-199)

ABOUT THE SHARKS (2013-14: 51-22-9, 2ND IN PACIFIC): General manager Doug Wilson stressed a "tomorrow's team" approach for the new season, and with that came the demotion from captain for Joe Thornton. The veteran amassed 65 assists and 76 points last season and likely will center a line with 41-goal scorer Pavelski and second-year upstart Tomas Hertl, who shined to begin the 2013-14 season before an injury took some steam out of his sail. Antti Niemi remains the unquestioned starting goaltender after winning a career-high 39 games last campaign, but second-year netminder Alex Stalock is expected to see an increase in workload this season.

ABOUT THE KINGS (2013-14: 46-28-8, 3RD IN PACIFIC): The key ingredient to Los Angeles' success has been coach Darryl Sutter's commitment to a stifling defense. Stud blue-liner Drew Doughty quarterbacks a heavy-hitting blue-line corps that will need to overcome veteran Willie Mitchell's departure to Florida. Jonathan Quick, who won the William Jennings Trophy after posting a rail-thin 2.07 goals-against average, surpassed Rogie Vachon's franchise-leading win total last season and needs one more shutout to match him in that category.

**StarDust Bum** · 10-08-2014, 07:45 PM

Wednesday, October 8

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Montreal - 7:00 PM ET Toronto -103 500
Toronto - Over 5.5 500

Philadelphia - 7:30 PM ET Boston -179 500 *****
Boston - Under 5.5 500

Vancouver - 10:00 PM ET Calgary +107 500 DOUBLE PLAY
Calgary - Under 5.5 500 DOUBLE PLAY

San Jose - 10:00 PM ET Los Angeles -139 500 *****
Los Angeles - Over 5.5 500

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The Bum's NHL October's Best Bets-Trends,Stats,News !

The Bum's NHL October's Best Bets-Trends,Stats,News !

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