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New York Islanders Low In Eastern Conference Power Ranking

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 16: Jaroslav Halak #41 of the New York Islanders reacts in the third period during a 4-1 loss to the New Jersey Devils at Barclays Center on January 16, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 16: Jaroslav Halak #41 of the New York Islanders reacts in the third period during a 4-1 loss to the New Jersey Devils at Barclays Center on January 16, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /
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CHICAGO, IL – JANUARY 22: Anton Stralman
CHICAGO, IL – JANUARY 22: Anton Stralman /

Tampa Bay Lightning

Was there ever any doubt who would rank first on this list? They’ve only been on top of the Eastern Conference since the season started. I’m sure that’s not 100% true, but it’s close and that’s all that matter, and you know it.

With Nikita Kucherov they have the leading candidate for the Hart Trophy and Art Ross trophy 82 with 82 points. Add Victor Hedman who’s a lock for the Norris Trophy with 45 points and a +26 rating. Oh, and Andrei Vasilevskiy who leads all goalies in wins with 37 and is top ten in both save percentage with 0.927 and a GAA of 2.34.

Over their last ten the Lightning have gone 6-3-1, only bested by the surging Flyers (8-1-1) and Panthers (7-3-0). Which keeps them in control of their lead at that top of the east. Even though the Bruins are breathing down their necks.

And then at the trade deadline Steve Yzerman, whos been GM of the year for as long as I can remember, got Ryan McDonagh from the Rangers.

The Lightning now possesses the best forward line in the league. They have the best goaltender in the league. And now they have one of the best defensive cores in the entire NHL. (Nashville still might be better).

Their chances of winning the cup at the trade deadline went from probable to a sure thing immediately

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