Arizona - Can Kaapo Kakko and Filip Zadina turn into the impact players the Coyotes need? Arizona is in desperate need of developing young players to push this rebuild along and compete before the fans decide to permanently abandon them.
Chicago - Can they go all the way? The Blackhawks have been contenders from day 1, and with Kopitar, Draisaitl, Eichel and Laine up front, there's no doubt they'll have a shot again. Is it finally their year?
Colorado - Can the offense carry the Avs to another run? Scheifele and Co have been carrying this team for a couple seasons. The defense and goaltending dont need to steal the show, they just need to be good enough to hold it together.
Dallas - Can Dave continue to show Hicks up? The Stars made an unlikely run to the playoffs after going all in, despite looking like they were too far out at the time. They got chirped by President's trophy winner Ryan Hicks when they went for it. They went on to sign a few good FAs. They might just have something to chirp about again this season.
Minnesota - Can Cory Schneider carry the Wild to the playoffs? He did it in Philly last year, and Minnesota needs more of the same because they don't have their 1st. If they fall to the bottom, you've got to wonder what they'll do.
Nashville - Can they get a first for Weise? Ok, ok, enough with the Weise jokes. Nashville is another one of those teams that has been contending from the start. Can they be the first team to win a 2nd title?
St Louis - The Blues own their first round pick, and they might just have the best team on paper since season 1, when they made the playoffs. All the ingredients are there. Is another magical run to the post season in the cards?
Winnipeg - Over the last 3 seasons the Jets have been a playoff team as long as Hellebyuck was an above average goalie. There isn't anyone behind him as insurance if he has another season like 2 years ago either. Will he be is dominant self and give Tavares and Hoffman another shot in the playoffs?