By George you're right! - I disagree.
To me, the only threats are Vancouver, Toronto and Ottawa of the Canadian teams entering the playoffs.
Calgary/ Edmonton ( If they make it ) - First round exits.
Vancouver - The loss of Bertuzzi is massive. My take, is he is just that good, and the differance to the team. Without Todd, the chemistry of the entire season becomes messed, and I see Vancouver leaving second round unless they face Dallas, then I'd say first round exit.
Ottawa - Tough team, great roster, and normally, I'd not argue them to take the conference. But I think the addition of Ray, DeVries, and Bondra actually hurt an already near perfect unit. For the first time this past month, this team has looked off to me. Goaltending has become very shakey too now. My thoughts are a first round exit to Toronto, second round exit if they meet Montreal/Boston first. Will go out 2nd to Philly/ NJ / Toronto.
Toronto - Still manages to click with men in and out of the roster steady. Missing Tucker, Nolan, Renberg, and Klee, they still win. The team has made this a habit, and it shows great heart in dark times. The loss of Nolan hurts, but the team refuses to accept excuses. With Tucker, Renberg, and Klee all due back this week, Stajan/Kilger will fill Nolans postition fine.
Will be the Canadian team to do the most damage.
Takes out Ottawa in six round one
Takes out Philly in tough battle in seven
Take out the surprise of the conference TB in 5 games.
Toronto faces Wings for cup.
*Enter thumps up here, and some rant for the kids*
Kathleen