Hockey Predictions- Western Conference

1. Anaheim Ducks - solid defence, with average scoring will secure top spot
2. Calgary Flames- will contend in the western conference
3. Nashville Predators- solid year- but will be an early exit in the playoffs
4. San Jose Sharks- will win the Stanley Cup
5. Detroit Red Wings - injuries, and lack of depth for the first time in years will secure a second place finish in their own division
6. Dallas Stars - Eric Lindros, a major addition- quick exit in the playoffs
7. Phoenix Coyotes- with their coach you have to hope for some kind of miracle
8. Vancouver Canucks - will fight to make the playoffs, as goaltending doesn't make up for lost offense
9. Minnesota Wild- too much defense, with very poor offense leaves them on the outside looking in
10. Colorado Avalanche- will struggle if their goaltending falls apart, weakest Aves team in years
11. Edmonton Oilers- free agents lost will leave the western conference winners near the western conference basement this year
12. Los Angeles Kings- the Kings will once again be without a crown
13 Columbus Blue Jackets- How can a team in Ohio expect to make the playoffs :)
14 St. Louis Blues- well at least Weight returned as a Stanley Cup champion
15 Chicago Blackhawks- too much money spent on too little goaltending