NHL predictions and rankings - March 7, 2021

A third of the regular season is already gone. It’s a short season and just a few games can swing the odds of a team making the playoffs or not. I’m sure there are plenty of surprises to come.

Predictions

The predictions below assume that all teams play all their games. That might not be the case and I’ll try to make adjustments to the predictions depending on what pans out.

North

It seemed all decided in the North last time I published predictions. Things have tightened up since. The Jets might appear in good position to make the playoffs but they are threatened by the Flames and the Canucks. The Maple Leafs are favourite to reach the semi-finals.

Table 1: Predictions for the North division

West

The Golden Knights sit comfortably on top. It’s been a bit more difficult for the Avalanche lately while the Wild have been playing well. The Kings are surprisingly making a push for a playoff spot.

Table 2: Predictions for the West division

Central

Florida’s teams claim the top three spots with, not surprisingly, the Lightning claiming the top spot. The Stars and the Blue Jackets will battle for the last playoff spot.

Table 3: Predictions for the Central division

East

It’s going to be a tough race to make the playoffs between the Islanders, the Flyers, the Penguins and the Capitals. The Bruins are in a good position to make the playoffs and claim the top spot.

Table 4: Predictions for the East division