Daily Faceoff midseason NHL Rankings #8-5: Atlantic Division enters the chat
Welcome to the Daily Faceoff midseason report cards. Here, we’re going to be using some analytics to find out which teams are struggling and who is at the top of the class. Teams are graded on how they stack up against league average in a variety of key metrics both offensively and defensively. The best team is given a score of 100 and the worst is given 0. To determine team OVR, all five metrics (5v5 OFF, 5v5 DEF, PP, PK and Goaltending) are combined.
8 – Nashville Predators
The Predators are good? Apparently! They hold the second spot in a tight Central Division and boast some of the league’s top 5×5 defensive play. If only their offense could catch up…
7 – Dallas Stars
The Dallas Stars’ top line of Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz and Joe Pavelski have been one of the most electric in the entire league. But their power play and penalty kill have been a massive part of their success this year.
6 – Tampa Bay Lightning
Would it be a top-10 if it didn’t include the Lightning? They’re once again humming along and close to the odds on favorites to win the cup. Great 5×5 defense, strong penalty killing and one of the best goalies in the world has played a big part.
5 – Boston Bruins
How about them B’s? They’re the top defensive team in the league with some well above average special teams play. Goaltending and offence, however, continue to plague them. In a tough Atlantic Division, they currently find themselves on the outside looking in.
Zach Laing is the Nation Network’s news director and senior columnist. He can be followed on Twitter at @zjlaing, or reached by email at zach@oilersnation.com.