NHL training camp is just around the corner. Which non-playoff teams have made moves during the off-season that will significantly improve their chances? Which teams will languish in mediocrity? It remains to be seen, but here are my observations:
New York Islanders- John Tavares is a step in the right direction, but they have a lot of work to do. PLAYOFFS- NO
Toronto- improved defense, but who`s going to score (Phil Kessel will help, but not enough)? PLAYOFFS- NO
Tampa Bay- made some positive moves on defense, but too much reliance on Lecavalier and St.Louis. PLAYOFFS- NO
Colorado- just not good enough, loss of Sakic will hurt leadership. PLAYOFFS- NO
Atlanta- Kovalchuk and ...........? Need more offense! PLAYOFFS- NO
Los Angeles- continues to build a good foundation of young players, but more experience required. PLAYOFFS- A LONG SHOT
Phoenix- If they ever figure out where they`re going to play, it will be apparent to the fans that this team has far to go to be competitive. PLAYOFFS- NO
Dallas- need more offense. PLAYOFFS- A GOOD SHOT
Ottawa- Kovalev, Michalek, Cheechoo, Leclaire in, Heatley out; jury is still out on the defense PLAYOFFS- A GOOD SHOT, IF PLAYERS COMPETE TO POTENTIAL
Edmonton- improved goaltending with Khabibulin, need more scoring. PLAYOFFS- A GOOD SHOT
Nashville- no significant improvements. PLAYOFFS- NO
Minnesota- Gaborik out, Havlat in. New team direction, but lacking offense. PLAYOFFS-AN OUTSIDE SHOT
Buffalo- no significant improvement, but decent roster. PLAYOFFS- A GOOD SHOT
Florida- Will have to score by committee. Must play well defensively in front of Tomas Vokoun. Not likely to make playoffs due to lack of depth.
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