NHL Power Rankings Week One: Capitals, Lightning, Predators, And Ducks Are Favorites

Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

NHL Power Rankings: #12 – Calgary Flames

The Calgary Flames are coming off an unforgettable Cinderella run in the NHL playoffs. They look to jump into contention with an improved team.

STRENGTHS: Their blue line is outrageous. They already had Norris Trophy contender Mark Giordano. Giordano has been robbed of two Norris Trophies due to injuries. They traded for Dougie Hamilton of the Bruins. Hamilton should make their blue line even better. T.J. Brodie and Dennis Wideman should form an excellent second pairing.

They also have a strong core of NHL forwards. Jiri Hudler is their veteran leader. Jonathan Gaudreau and Sean Monahan are two of the best young forwards in the league. Michael Frolik was a very solid FA signing.

WEAKNESSES: Their puck possession was absolutely abysmal last season. That needs to change. The additions of Hamilton and Frolik should change that. However, I’m not sure if it will. They relied quite heavily on Jonas Hiller and Karri Ramo last season. That’s something that must change if they want to contend for a Stanley Cup.

OUTLOOK: They’re definitely making the playoffs. How far they will go depends on if they can avoid having horrible possession numbers.

Next: #11