As the Detroit Red Wings prepare to raise the banner and begin the defense of their 2008 Stanley Cup Championship tonight there is a feeling in the hockey world that this team could be shoo ins to repeat. Fans and Analysts alike all agree that this year there may not be anyone to serve as tough competition for the Wings.

 So, I have decided to take a closer look at the NHL's top tier of teams and you can decide for yourself if anyone can stop the team from Hockey Town:

1) Pitsburgh Penguins - It seems only right to pick the team who came closest to winning the Stanley Cup last year. The Pen's still have the skill and speed it takes, however they had one heck of a thrashing since the Trade Deadline losing Sniper Marion Hossa, key role players like Ryan Malone, Colby Armstrong, and Gary Roberts and tough guy George Laraque. I still believe in Pitsburghs ability to score and have always believed in Marc-Andre Fleurys ability (Except that game in the World Juniors, that stung.) The thing that may hurt them though is Crosby. Ironic when you think about it, I know the Pen's have got new young tough guys to watch Crosby's back. But it just isn't possible to replace George Laraque who is without a doubt in my mind the toughest player in the NHL and one of the greatest locker room influences in the NHL in Gary Roberts, and without these guys I think Crosby is going to be suffering.. The defense situation in Pitsburgh is going to be the deciding factor on if their Playoff seed is a Top 4 or Bottom 5. The absence of Gonchar and Whitney will be felt and felt immediately, asking the young group they have now to perform at the level needed to win NHL Hockey games for months straight is just not possible, I believe a trade will be made sometime within the next month.

Key to success: Defense
Prediction: Lose in 2nd round.

2) Montreal Canadiens - I will tell you now that my view on this team has always been negative as I hate the Canadiens. I am a Leafs supporter. But saying this I believe that this team will be making it far into the playoffs. They just have an overall great package going on with the aqquisitions made in the off season. I believe it was a mistake letting go of Ryder but it was for the best as Guy Carbaneau has defiantly been known to have favorites. Carey Price will also need to be in top form. He has proven to being a mature goalie for his age and many fans are comparing him to Roy, however that comparison disgusts me so I will not continue to speak of it.

Key to success: Strong year from Carey Price, and good numbers from Tanguay
Prediction: Lose in conference finals

 I am not much of a typer or blogger, so I am going to break it up.. look for my next blog in which I talk about other potential teams who can compete for Lord Stanley, including:

The Flyers, Sharks, Rangers, Flames, Senators, and MAPLE LEAFS (heh, joking)

Cheers,
Tyler