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NHL Midseason Recap: Metropolitan Division
(Atlantic division recap from last week can be found here )
Halfway through the NHL season, the Metropolitan Division displays a vibrant mix of surprise performances and expected contenders. From the NY Rangers leading the pack to the struggling Columbus Blue Jackets, each team is scripting its unique story.
New York Rangers: Leading with Finesse
The Rangers are comfortably perched atop the Metropolitan Division with 54 points in 39 games. Their success can be attributed to solid ESBC Power AI ratings, although these metrics aren't as high as their points tally might suggest. A key strength has been their special teams play, significantly contributing to early victories. Veteran goalie Jonathan Quick has defied age, playing a pivotal backup role to Igor Shesterkin. While their current pace of 113 points might be unsustainable, the Rangers are well on their way to surpassing 100 points this season.
Carolina Hurricanes: Navigating Early Challenges
The Hurricanes, currently second with 49 points in 40 games, experienced a rocky start with declining ESBC Power AI ratings in their first 30 games. However, recent improvements in underlying metrics show promise. Goalkeeping has been a concern, with starter Fredrik Andersen sidelined and backup Antti Raanta underperforming. Pyotr Kochetkov has stepped up in response. Sebastian Aho leads the team in scoring, but others need to step up their game. The Hurricanes are poised to make the playoffs and could potentially challenge the Rangers for the division crown.
New York Islanders: A Quiet Surge
The Islanders have been building a strong season under the radar, sitting third with 46 points in 39 games. Their solid ESBC Power AI ratings indicate a high chance of reaching the playoffs if they maintain their current level of play. An area of concern is backup goalie Varlamov's health; Starter Sorokin is really good, but soild Varlamov would offer more options to coach Lambert.
Philadelphia Flyers: A Surprising Uptick
The Flyers have been one of the season's biggest surprises, thanks largely to improved defense and Sean Couturier's return from injury. The goaltending tandem of Carter Hart and Samuel Ersson has been reliable. However, their power play efficiency and overall shooting percentage need improvement. While their ESBC Power AI ratings have been positive, a recent decline could be worrisome for their playoff aspirations.
New Jersey Devils: Underwhelming Performances
The Devils have been among the season's biggest disappointments. Their main issue has been allowing too many goals, with goalies Schmid and Vanecek struggling behind a weak defensive system. Injuries have also plagued the team and at the moment Ondrej Palat, Timo Meier, Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton are out of the lineup. Overall their offensive production remains strong. If they can address their defensive and injury issues, the Devils could still be contenders.
Washington Capitals: Overachieving but Vulnerable
The Capitals have exceeded expectations with 44 points in 38 games, but their actual level of play, as reflected in their ESBC Power AI ratings, hasn't been impressive. The return of Max Pacioretty from injury is a boost, but his form remains a concern. So far he has only managed to get around 13 minutes of even strength time and only leftover seconds from the powerplay. The latter half of the season could see the Capitals falling out of the playoff race.
Pittsburgh Penguins: Unlucky yet Promising
Pittsburgh might be the unluckiest team so far, with strong ESBC Power AI ratings not translating into goals. Their potential is evident, and if they maintain their high-quality play, they should reach the playoffs.
Columbus Blue Jackets: Struggling at the Bottom
The Blue Jackets' season started on a rocky note with a late coaching change and has been compounded by injuries. At the moment Laine, Kuraly, Jenner are Werenski are all out of the lineup. Currently, they are almost certainly out of the playoff race.
Conclusion
The Metropolitan Division is shaping up to be a battleground of resilience, strategy, and sometimes, sheer luck. The Rangers and Hurricanes are poised for a division title race, while teams like the Islanders and Flyers are proving their mettle. The Devils and Capitals face uphill battles, and the Penguins' fortunes could swing either way. For the Blue Jackets, it's a season of introspection and rebuilding. As we venture into the second half of the season, each game - especially the inter-division games - becomes crucial in determining who will rise, who will fall, and who will ultimately clinch those coveted playoff spots.
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