Eyes on Isles Roundtable: 2014-15 NHL Season Preview

Apr 27, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; The Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks shake hands after the overtime period in game six of the first round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. The Ducks defeated the Stars 5-4 and win the series 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Question 4: What NHL team is most likely to have a breakout campaign?

Chris: I mentioned them earlier, but the Columbus Blue Jackets. Love the way they play the game and last year was just a taste of what’s to come for them.

Kenny: Aside from the New York Islanders, I think the Dallas Stars will continue their success from last season in a big way this season. The additions of Jason Spezza and Ales Hemsky will prove to be huge f0r Dallas, especially now that Spezza has protection from the teams top defenders on line two. Look out for them to be serious cup contenders this season.

Kevin: Aside from the Islanders, I really think that Columbus builds on their success last year. Their season seemed like an exact replica of the Isles 2013 campaign, including having Pittsburgh on the ropes in the first round. I hate that they’re in the Metropolitan Division because that’s  more competition for the Islanders, but good for them to build a contending team out there.

Michael: The Dallas Stars. Tyler Seguin, Valeri Nichushkin and Jamie Benn have emerged as one of the best young lines in the league with Benn being the oldest at 25. Now add Jason Spezza and Ales Hemsky to the mix and the Stars are set to make a deep run into the playoffs.