Team Futures

[TheHighHat]

DK & FD both have NHL futures up including teams making/missing the playoffs.
DK also has team point totals even though there might be dramatic changes in a few teams because of trades.

For Blues fans that think they improved the team and will make the playoffs:
DK has STL at +260 to make the playoffs. Only +200 on FD.
Season point total is only 86.5 (Blues finished with 86 in 25-26)

Others that stood out to me at first glance:
* Vegas point total is 103.5
It seems the books are counting on the public just to look at their finals run.
Vegas had only 95 points last year in that weak division.
Lost Dorofeyev's offense.
Short summer for veteran team.
Yet another new coach.

* Los Angeles is -205 to make the playoffs on FD. +158 to miss.
This one shocks me. The books must love this cemetery club.
Can Byfield handle the load as their 1C?
Where does secondary scoring come from?
The Kings d-men were remarkably healthy last year. I doubt that happens again.

* Buffalo is at even money to make the playoffs on FD
FD has Toronto (-118) & Ottawa (-148) making the playoffs before the Sabres.
I still think Jarmo has a big swing (Hellebuyck or Larkin) left in him which could change the odds big time.

* Anaheim at +120 to miss the playoffs on DK
Obviously DK, like most, think the Ducks will match and retain Carlsson.
Have they taken into account that matching will probably handcuff the chances of improving their blue line?
What if Mintyukov is poached?

* San Jose is at +104 to make the playoffs on FD
The books still like the 2 SoCal teams over the hype train up north.
They basically have the same 8 teams making the playoffs in the west.
I still think the Sharks need another 2 years before they become a Cup contender, but playoff contention is a different story.

* NY Rangers point total is 89.5
Drury sold some of the future to try to sneak into the playoffs by trading for Dorofeyev & Pettersson.
Pettersson is a big upgrade over Soucy/Vaakanainen. Sully pushed for that deal.
Durzi can play PP2 so he's a slight upgrade over Borgen.

This is a pretty good d corps:
V. Gavrikov - A. Fox
M. Pettersson - S. Durzi
M. Robertson - B. Schneider

They still have Shesterkin in goal.
I expect the Rangers goals against & shots against to go down significantly.

I expect a breakout year from Perreault.
Lafreniere came on in the 2nd half.
Can their 2 older centers hold up and can they get some offense form the bottom 6?

G. Perreault - M. Zibanejad - A. Lafreniere
W. Cuylle - JT Miller - P. Dorofeyev

What stands out to you guys?

[TheHighHat]

A very important point that I neglected to bring up in the OP regarding point totals is the 2 extra games this year.
Yet, they still have the Blues at 86.5

[tfriede2]

Wat.

[dhsux]

To bet any odds that the same 8 make it back is absurd. That's what they have concluded in their odds package.

I'll take the over on the Blues, easily.

Kings are old. Ducks in turmoil.

Vegas's Hart and Hill have much to prove and same with Blackwood and Wedgewood, play off wise, imo

[TruBlueFan_1970]

Too early to predict anything for any teams imho. With that said, I can see where they are coming from with their assessment of the Blues based on ins and outs:

Out: Kyrou, Schenn and Faulk (41 goals, 65 assists, 106 points). These stats only reflect totals with the Blues. Schenn/Faulk added points with Isles and Wings.

In: McT, McM, Johnston, Carlo (34 goals, 74 assists, 111 points). Offensively, they didn't improve much, as they have more assists but less goals.

Additionally, like all teams that don't have significant depth at key positions, the Blues are 1-2 key injuries from probably being a bottom 10 team. If 1 or 2 of Thomas/Holloway/Parayko/Broberg miss significant time for any reason, they will be in trouble. They are already thin at center, even with the additions of CM and MM. They are very thin at RD if any of Carlo, Parayko or Mailloux go down, but especially if it's Parayko. Same on the left with Broberg. Oddsmakers don't count on teams being 100% healthy during the year.

Personally, I like our team better than last year, as we got younger with CM and MM, but we also added some sandpaper with those two and Johnston/Carlo. With our lack of significant depth though, I can see why the oddsmakers still have us in re-whatever mode and most likely missing the playoffs in their view.

[Quas]

I expect improvement over last year. Injuries were a major reason they missed the playoffs. Having key injuries to Thomas and Holloway hurt their offensive numbers. If both stay healthy I would expect them to make the playoffs. Also, last year was one of Binnington’s worst seasons, and I would expect his play to be better this year and also expect Hofer to continue to get better. They also have young players like Snuggarud and Mallioux who should improve with more experience. They may also make another move or two to improve the defensive depth.

[steve li]

I expect improvement over last year. Injuries were a major reason they missed the playoffs. Having key injuries to Thomas and Holloway hurt their offensive numbers. If both stay healthy I would expect them to make the playoffs. Also, last year was one of Binnington’s worst seasons, and I would expect his play to be better this year and also expect Hofer to continue to get better. They also have young players like Snuggarud and Mallioux who should improve with more experience. They may also make another move or two to improve the defensive depth.

Would hope and think. And I'm looking forward to seeing how this team develops.

But...I'm kindof in the let's see how they come out of the gate. Is this version of the Blues ready to compete right at the get go, or are we going to see the same ol' same ol' through Nov/Dec?

[JoshInFenton]

I would take the over on the blues, because i suspect the offensive production to be reasonably similar to last years. Slightly better performances from just a few people (Dvo, Neighbours, Snuggy growing into his role more) and my expectation that Fowler will grow into what we lost with faulk, makes me think that any down years or major injuries we have shouldn't drastically change those numbers.

Where i think we gain some is in defense and goal. Hofer probably taking 53/31 split in net and not tanking hard early is part of my bet there, binnington still has it in him to do better than he did this year. Defensively, only Parayko and Fowler should be in some level of potential regression (but again, Fowler will have a very solid defensive defensemen next to him now rather than someone who is similar in offensive aggressiveness to him), carlo on neutral imo, and Broberg, Mailloux, and Lindstein all on growth trajectories makes me feel like we could easily shave 25-30 goals off our total. And i also factor in 3-4 less empty net 6 on 5's now that kyrou doesn't play here and turn it over.

I'd take an under once that line got to about 95.5 (formerly 93.5 in an 82 game schedule). I think thats fringe to make the playoffs in the west at best, and is about where i'd put this team's talent right here and now.

[DawgDad]

Too early to predict anything for any teams imho. With that said, I can see where they are coming from with their assessment of the Blues based on ins and outs:

Out: Kyrou, Schenn and Faulk (41 goals, 65 assists, 106 points). These stats only reflect totals with the Blues. Schenn/Faulk added points with Isles and Wings.

In: McT, McM, Johnston, Carlo (34 goals, 74 assists, 111 points). Offensively, they didn't improve much, as they have more assists but less goals.

Additionally, like all teams that don't have significant depth at key positions, the Blues are 1-2 key injuries from probably being a bottom 10 team. If 1 or 2 of Thomas/Holloway/Parayko/Broberg miss significant time for any reason, they will be in trouble. They are already thin at center, even with the additions of CM and MM. They are very thin at RD if any of Carlo, Parayko or Mailloux go down, but especially if it's Parayko. Same on the left with Broberg. Oddsmakers don't count on teams being 100% healthy during the year.

Personally, I like our team better than last year, as we got younger with CM and MM, but we also added some sandpaper with those two and Johnston/Carlo. With our lack of significant depth though, I can see why the oddsmakers still have us in re-whatever mode and most likely missing the playoffs in their view.

Two seasons ago they lost Parayko for a stretch during their playoff run and continued to win games. Theoretically they could survive with Mailloux-Carlo in the top-4.

The big weakness is scoring depth below the top line. They are counting on young players like Dvorsky to improve. They also need more goals from the remaining defensemen.

They also need consistently good goaltending and respectable special teams. Things that should happen but might become problematic.

[Frank Barone]

Too early to predict anything for any teams imho. With that said, I can see where they are coming from with their assessment of the Blues based on ins and outs:

Out: Kyrou, Schenn and Faulk (41 goals, 65 assists, 106 points). These stats only reflect totals with the Blues. Schenn/Faulk added points with Isles and Wings.

In: McT, McM, Johnston, Carlo (34 goals, 74 assists, 111 points). Offensively, they didn't improve much, as they have more assists but less goals.

Additionally, like all teams that don't have significant depth at key positions, the Blues are 1-2 key injuries from probably being a bottom 10 team. If 1 or 2 of Thomas/Holloway/Parayko/Broberg miss significant time for any reason, they will be in trouble. They are already thin at center, even with the additions of CM and MM. They are very thin at RD if any of Carlo, Parayko or Mailloux go down, but especially if it's Parayko. Same on the left with Broberg. Oddsmakers don't count on teams being 100% healthy during the year.

Personally, I like our team better than last year, as we got younger with CM and MM, but we also added some sandpaper with those two and Johnston/Carlo. With our lack of significant depth though, I can see why the oddsmakers still have us in re-whatever mode and most likely missing the playoffs in their view.

I think the Blues will get a few more points this year assuming they avoid a slow start to the season and will challenge for a playoff spot. Hofer should be more consistent over the entire season and Binnington should be better.

McTavish should be a big upgrade over Schenn. Kyrou and Faulk have really not been replaced in kind. The real replacements are Carbo and Jiricek, and they won't be big contributors this year. Maybe they will help a bit late in the year. McMichael will add depth to a crowded LW position, which could help if injuries occur there.

[TAFKAP]

Too early to predict anything for any teams imho. With that said, I can see where they are coming from with their assessment of the Blues based on ins and outs:

Out: Kyrou, Schenn and Faulk (41 goals, 65 assists, 106 points). These stats only reflect totals with the Blues. Schenn/Faulk added points with Isles and Wings.

In: McT, McM, Johnston, Carlo (34 goals, 74 assists, 111 points). Offensively, they didn't improve much, as they have more assists but less goals.

Additionally, like all teams that don't have significant depth at key positions, the Blues are 1-2 key injuries from probably being a bottom 10 team. If 1 or 2 of Thomas/Holloway/Parayko/Broberg miss significant time for any reason, they will be in trouble. They are already thin at center, even with the additions of CM and MM. They are very thin at RD if any of Carlo, Parayko or Mailloux go down, but especially if it's Parayko. Same on the left with Broberg. Oddsmakers don't count on teams being 100% healthy during the year.

Personally, I like our team better than last year, as we got younger with CM and MM, but we also added some sandpaper with those two and Johnston/Carlo. With our lack of significant depth though, I can see why the oddsmakers still have us in re-whatever mode and most likely missing the playoffs in their view.

Two seasons ago they lost Parayko for a stretch during their playoff run and continued to win games. Theoretically they could survive with Mailloux-Carlo in the top-4.

The big weakness is scoring depth below the top line. They are counting on young players like Dvorsky to improve. They also need more goals from the remaining defensemen.

They also need consistently good goaltending and respectable special teams. Things that should happen but might become problematic.

IMHO we are short a 70 point 2RW. I've read several places suggesting Monty split the 1st Line with it being Holloway, RT, Buch and the 2nd being Mc, Mc, Sunggy. I don't know. I feel better about the 2C position giving Dvorsky time to grow but I can't say these guys are wrong.

[HighStick]

I think they make the PO's with 95 pts.
I think this is just a lil bit better team and it will show in the results. McMichael/McTavish will make a better 2nd line than Schenn/Kyrou did last season. McMichaels overall defensive play should make up for any loss in offensive production. Carlo should shore up the defense. They aren't making a Cup run but I do believe they will make a round or two.

[TheHighHat]

I would take the over on the blues, because i suspect the offensive production to be reasonably similar to last years. Slightly better performances from just a few people (Dvo, Neighbours, Snuggy growing into his role more) and my expectation that Fowler will grow into what we lost with faulk, makes me think that any down years or major injuries we have shouldn't drastically change those numbers.

Where i think we gain some is in defense and goal. Hofer probably taking 53/31 split in net and not tanking hard early is part of my bet there, binnington still has it in him to do better than he did this year. Defensively, only Parayko and Fowler should be in some level of potential regression (but again, Fowler will have a very solid defensive defensemen next to him now rather than someone who is similar in offensive aggressiveness to him), carlo on neutral imo, and Broberg, Mailloux, and Lindstein all on growth trajectories makes me feel like we could easily shave 25-30 goals off our total. And i also factor in 3-4 less empty net 6 on 5's now that kyrou doesn't play here and turn it over.

I'd take an under once that line got to about 95.5 (formerly 93.5 in an 82 game schedule). I think thats fringe to make the playoffs in the west at best, and is about where i'd put this team's talent right here and now.

“Show me the incentive and I'll show you the outcome.”

I know I'm in the minority, but I believe the games started you have listed for Hofer & Binner will be flipped.
I expect Binnington will have a great season in his contract year and give Steen his first difficult major decision to make.

Look for Binner to come into camp in the best shape of his life with a clear head ready to compete from the word go in October.
He's only 33.
Goaltenders are fickle.
Timing is everything in life; great season in 26-27 equates to a great retirement contract from some team.

I'm not a fan of laying 15 cents on the dollar, but I'm on the over 86.5 points big time.
Even though I'm usually skeptical of the Blues, I also took a crack at that +260 playoff wager.
It will be nice to have a nice chunk of dough hit my account in April if both hit.

Everyone that replied has made valid points.
We all know the issues STL might/will face.

How about the other teams?
Colorado will still be very good but not dominant.
Dallas is facing depth issues for the 2nd year in a row.
Utah is a much more veteran team than most people realize & Armstrong just brought in more old guys.
Minny doesn't have a 1C. Small top 4 d-men, and little forward depth.
Vegas has depth and age issues.
Edmonton might surprise to the upside with a near full summer of rest & new coach.
Anaheim needs to replace 3-4 d-men from last year & Terry is on the shelf for awhile.
San Jose is getting a lot of attention but still has many holes.
LA is getting in monthly shipments of Depends for their squad.

The Blues need to be above 2 of the 3 California teams to make the playoffs.

[JoshInFenton]

I actually think Colorado will come crashing back down to earth. While they have a great offensive machine still amongst their top 6, what made them particularly great is their bottom 6 was also very strong, probably had 2 or 3 guys that could win faceoffs and be major players in penalty kills. So your one break from their top offensive players was to face the best PK in the league, which made for uncomfortable play. They've lost some major players there, i think that sinks from top in the league to mid pack at best, and with that i think 10-15 points comes off the board.

[clemonsonroots]

DK & FD both have NHL futures up including teams making/missing the playoffs.
DK also has team point totals even though there might be dramatic changes in a few teams because of trades.

For Blues fans that think they improved the team and will make the playoffs:
DK has STL at +260 to make the playoffs. Only +200 on FD.
Season point total is only 86.5 (Blues finished with 86 in 25-26)

Others that stood out to me at first glance:
* Vegas point total is 103.5
It seems the books are counting on the public just to look at their finals run.
Vegas had only 95 points last year in that weak division.
Lost Dorofeyev's offense.
Short summer for veteran team.
Yet another new coach.

* Los Angeles is -205 to make the playoffs on FD. +158 to miss.
This one shocks me. The books must love this cemetery club.
Can Byfield handle the load as their 1C?
Where does secondary scoring come from?
The Kings d-men were remarkably healthy last year. I doubt that happens again.

* Buffalo is at even money to make the playoffs on FD
FD has Toronto (-118) & Ottawa (-148) making the playoffs before the Sabres.
I still think Jarmo has a big swing (Hellebuyck or Larkin) left in him which could change the odds big time.

* Anaheim at +120 to miss the playoffs on DK
Obviously DK, like most, think the Ducks will match and retain Carlsson.
Have they taken into account that matching will probably handcuff the chances of improving their blue line?
What if Mintyukov is poached?

* San Jose is at +104 to make the playoffs on FD
The books still like the 2 SoCal teams over the hype train up north.
They basically have the same 8 teams making the playoffs in the west.
I still think the Sharks need another 2 years before they become a Cup contender, but playoff contention is a different story.

* NY Rangers point total is 89.5
Drury sold some of the future to try to sneak into the playoffs by trading for Dorofeyev & Pettersson.
Pettersson is a big upgrade over Soucy/Vaakanainen. Sully pushed for that deal.
Durzi can play PP2 so he's a slight upgrade over Borgen.

This is a pretty good d corps:
V. Gavrikov - A. Fox
M. Pettersson - S. Durzi
M. Robertson - B. Schneider

They still have Shesterkin in goal.
I expect the Rangers goals against & shots against to go down significantly.

I expect a breakout year from Perreault.
Lafreniere came on in the 2nd half.
Can their 2 older centers hold up and can they get some offense form the bottom 6?

G. Perreault - M. Zibanejad - A. Lafreniere
W. Cuylle - JT Miller - P. Dorofeyev

What stands out to you guys?

I didn't see the Rangers traded for Marcus Pettersson. When I saw your post, I was thinking Elias and was like, no way they did that with JT Miller on the team lol.

[hornetfb52]

Took me a few to simply figure out what DK and FD were