Avalanche suffer massive blow in stunning new report just ahead of the upcoming season
Photo credit: Andy Cross / The Denver Post
A stunning new report reveals a massive blow for the Colorado Avalanche, as insiders now predict the Dallas Stars will finish first in the division next season, potentially tipping the balance of power in the Central Division next season.
The Stars are early favourites to win the Central Division, with one analyst predicting they could run away with it.
Avalanche hit with a massive blow ahead of next season.
Yardbarker reports that despite the Western Conference Final three years in a row, the Stars have yet to break through to the Stanley Cup Final. But with
challenges in the division, their path looks more open than ever.
According to Daily Faceoff, the Stars' combination of depth, star power, and roster stability gives them a clear edge over their rivals.
On a recent episode of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Matt Larkin broke down why he believes the Stars stand alone atop the Central Division heading into next season.
"I actually think the Dallas Stars are in a tier of their own in that division because of the fact that the Jets are taking a step back. I think people are sleeping on the fact that Colorado is trending in the wrong direction Their point total has gone down a couple years in a row, and their depth is getting shallower and shallower Their prospect pool is barren. There's no help coming So, because of that, I think this is the year that Dallas really separates and maybe wins the division by five or 10 points." -Larkin
The Winnipeg Jets, fresh off a Presidents' Trophy win, are projected to experience a decline this season.
The Colorado Avalanche are dealing with salary cap pressure and shrinking depth, which Larkin points out could leave them exposed.
"Teams like the Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues could push for playoff spots, but Dallas remains the most balanced contender with stars like
Mikko Rantanen,
Jake Oettinger, and
Jason Robertson leading the charge." -Yardbarker
This could finally be the year the Dallas Stars not only claim the Central Division title but also make a strong push all the way to the Stanley Cup Final.
Previously on Avalanche Insider
POLL |
JUILLET 27 | 22 ANSWERS Avalanche suffer massive blow in stunning new report just ahead of the upcoming season Who will finish first in the Central Division next season? |
Colorado Avalanche | 8 | 36.4 % |
Dallas Stars | 10 | 45.5 % |
Winnipeg Jets | 2 | 9.1 % |
Other | 2 | 9.1 % |
List of polls |