NHL predictions and rankings - January 18, 2024
We are at mid-season already. We are seeing some surprises like the Canucks as one of the top teams, the Jets as the best team so far, and the Senators not even competing for a playoff spot.
Predictions for the 2023-24 season
The Jets are still on top of the expected standings and favourite for the President’s trophy and the Cup. With 11 straight wins, the Oilers are climbing and are in the top five.
A few teams that could have been considered as Cup contender are far from certain of making the playoffs. That includes the Maple Leafs and the Lightning. The Capitals, a perennial playoff team, is already almost certain of not making the playoffs.
Power ranking
For the second week in a row, the three top teams in the power ranking are Canadian: Jets, Oilers and Canucks.
Why are the Canadiens higher in the power ranking than the Senators? It’s because the Canadiens have a much worst differential as they tend to be outmatched in more games. Although the Senators are not doing great, they tend to be more competitive.