Playoff Push Intensifies in Eastern Conference

As the NHL regular season enters its stretch run, the playoff picture is becoming clearer, but several teams are still battling for position. Currently, two Canadian teams occupy playoff spots, with a third emerging as a serious contender in the Eastern Conference.

The Ottawa Senators, previously ranked eighth despite sitting 19th in the NHL in points percentage, have been making significant strides. A model previously bullish on the Sens noted they routinely outplayed opponents.

Senators’ Turnaround Fueled by Goaltending Improvement

The key to Ottawa’s recent success has been a marked improvement in goaltending. Previously plagued by league-worst performance in net, the Senators have seen a positive shift. Since the last power rankings update, the Senators have gone 5-1-2, achieving the fifth-best points percentage in the league.

“The one catch is goaltending – as in, league-worst goaltending. With an improvement in net, our model was confident this team would go on a run and that’s exactly what has happened.”

TSN Power Rankings

The Senators currently have just under a 50 percent chance of making the playoffs, and if Linus Ullmark can continue to provide stability in net, they just might secure a postseason berth.

Oilers and Canadiens Also on the Rise

The Edmonton Oilers, sitting ninth in the rankings following a 4-2 win in Vegas on Sunday, have also been active in bolstering their roster. Edmonton brought in defenseman Connor Murphy and forward Jason Dickinson at the trade deadline, aiming to improve defensively.

Despite ranking in the top five in the NHL in slot shots, rush chances, and goals for, the Oilers struggle defensively, ranking in the bottom ten in those same categories against. They face tough tests this week against Colorado and Dallas.

The Montreal Canadiens continue to be an exciting team to watch, ranking 13th on the list. They remain one of the most high-event teams in the NHL.

Other Notable Teams

• Winnipeg Jets: Rejuvenated after the Olympic break, posting a 4-0-2 record and improving their goals against average by 22 percent.
• Toronto Maple Leafs: Struggling since the break, with a league-worst 0-5-2 record and a clear indication of a rebuild following recent trades.
• Calgary Flames: Also signaling a rebuild, having traded away key players like Nazem Kadri, MacKenzie Weegar, and Rasmus Andersson.

Power Ranking – March 9