Daily Faceoff midseason NHL Rankings #16-9: California Dreamin’
Welcome to the Daily Faceoff midseason report cards. Here, we’re going to be using some analytics to find out which teams are struggling and who is at the top of the class. Teams are graded on how they stack up against league average in a variety of key metrics both offensively and defensively. The best team is given a score of 100 and the worst is given 0. To determine team OVR, all five metrics (5v5 OFF, 5v5 DEF, PP, PK and Goaltending) are combined.
16 – Winnipeg Jets
The Jets have been backed by elite forwards play and strong goaltending. They’ve had a coaching change, but their special teams continue to plague them.
15 – Florida Panthers
The best 5×5 offense in the league is plagued by some awful special teams play. They’re a strong contender this year, but could climb up the DFO rankings if they fix their power play and penalty kill.
14 – Edmonton Oilers
So… how about that power play? It’s hands down the best in the league, but the Oilers have some major holes to fill on the back end and in net to take another step forward.
13 – San Jose Sharks
The Sharks are… good again? They’re a fairly average team with weak 5×5 offense and some very good penalty killing.
12 – New York Rangers
Look I’m not gonna lie: I don’t how the Rangers are up here. But they’re backed by some high-end goaltending and power play work. There is lots to be desired as 5×5, though.
11 – Los Angeles Kings
Very good offense and elite goaltending is paving the way for the overachieving LA Kings. Can they hold on in a tough Pacific Division?
10 – Anaheim Ducks
Led by Trevor Zegras, there are few more electric teams in the league. They’re above average in nearly every category this year. Can head coach Dallas Eakins keep pushing them forward?
9 – St. Louis Blues
Elite power play and some elite goaltending is doing wonders for this St. Louis Blues team who has looked rock solid.
Zach Laing is the Nation Network’s news director and senior columnist. He can be followed on Twitter at @zjlaing, or reached by email at zach@oilersnation.com.