Detroit Red Wings (28-7-5, 61 pts): The defending Stanley Cup Champions were expected to be even stronger this year, especially after adding the top free agent in the offseason, Marian Hossa. They have maintained their position of dominance in the Western Conference, ranking near the top of nearly every team statistical category in the league.
The Red Wings’ potent offense, ranked 1st in the league, is averaging nearly 4 goals a game. Led by Pavel Datsyuk (18-29-47) and Hossa (19-21-40), the Red Wings have one of the most well-balanced attacks in the league. Nine of Detroit’s forwards have double digit points. Adding to the scoring, veteran defensemen Nicklas Lidstrom and Brian Rafalski both have over 20 assists.
Defensively, Detroit has been rock solid, as every defenseman on the squad holds a positive +/- rating. Chris Osgood and Ty Conklin have been as good as they have had to be, but when your offense is posting nearly 4 goals a game, your goaltenders don’t need to be stellar.
Current League Rankings
Goals - 1st Goals Against - T-13th Powerplay Goals - 1st Powerplay Percentage - 1st Shorthanded Goals - T-14th Penalty kill percentage - 22nd