NHL Northwest Division Preview
In a tough division, the Vancouver Canucks have an edge in goal with Roberto Luongo (.921) coming off his best season ever. He alone will keep this team competitive. The defense includes stars Kevin Bieksa (42 PTS) and Sami Salo (37 PTS). For this team, the big question revolves around offensive stars Markus Naslund (60 PTS) and Brendan Morrison (51 PTS), both of whom had off seasons in 2006.
Minnesota possesses solid goaltending, productive special teams and a tough defense. Plus, its offense seems to be on the up-tick. This could be a big year for Minnesota, which includes star goalie Nicklas Backstrom (.929 SV%, 1.97 GAA); wingers Marian Gaborik (57 PTS) and Brian Rolston (64 PTS); and “D-man” Keith Carney (+22).
The Calgary Flames are not to be taken lightly. In a conference noted for its goal tending, Miikka Kiprusoff (.917) has the ability to keep the team, which was uneven on “D” last season, in every game. This year the team needs to keep focused. Along with some new talent, wingers Alex Tanguay (81 PTS) and Jarome Iginla (94 PTS) and defensemen Dion Phaneuf (50 PTS) return.
The big question for Colorado revolves around goalie Jose Theodore (.891 SV%), who was replaced in 2006- 07 due to uneven play. For this team to succeed either Theodore must regain his old Hart Trophy form or Peter Budaj (.905), who replace the vet and played well down the stretch, must continue his goal-stopping ways. Joe Sakic (100 PTS) is a powerful player and team leader on a dynamite offense. The defense sports some new talent, which may help.
The Oilers made it to the Cup finals in 2005-06 and then went back to reality in 2006- 07. This year expect more harsh reality as the club struggles to rebuild. There are a lot of good prospects from the AHL, OHL and other leagues. Goaltending is a big problem for this club.
Projected Finish in 2007- 2008
1) Vancouver Canucks
2) Minnesota Wild
3) Calgary Flames
4) Colorado Avalanche
5) Edmonton Oilers
Check out the other Western Conference divisions previews including the Central and Pacific.
