Heading into the Home Stretch, part 2

And now, here is the Western Conference, with some notes about each of the 15 teams.

CENTRAL DIVISION

Chicago Blackhawks: The clear front runners in the division, their playoff run could be undone by the goaltending. It looks like Cristobal Huet is not the team's long term answer, and the backup goaltender hasn't played enough for the team to really count on him. Then again, the same could have been said for Simeon Varlamov in Washington last year.

Columbus Blue Jackets: Last year seemed to be an abberation, as this year sees them out of the playoffs and possibly looking for a coach at the end of the year, unless they decide the interim is good enough.

Detroit Red Wings: The free agent defections, injuries, and shaky goaltending have the Red Wings on the verge of not making the playoffs. The million dollar question here is whether they can fend off Calgary for the final playoff spot.

Nashville Predators: Every year, it seems like the Predators are slated to not make the playoffs and every year, they either come close or somehow sneak in. This year is no different, as they currently hold the seventh spot in the playoffs.

St. Louis Blues: No, they aren't going to sneak up on anybody this year, and no, they aren't making the playoffs, either.

NORTHWEST DIVISION

Calgary Flames: So, they traded away Phaneuf and Olli Jokinen and somehow they remain in the playoff chase? Yes, and no, they aren't going to have a deep run, so don't get too excited.

Colorado Avalanche: Surprise team of the year, and it all begins with Craig Anderson in goal. The best signing of the offseason, he will have to be lights out if Colorado hopes to have a decent playoff run.

Edmonton Oilers: They stink, the end. And considering that I grew up an Oilers fan, this is one of the more depressing stories. Nothing has really worked out, but with the possible number one overall pick in the coming draft, it is possible that things can change. Then again, it is the Oilers, so I'm not getting my hopes up.

Minnesota Wild: Another disappointing year for the State of Hockey, I would hope that the Wild can put up a more consistent season next year.

Vancouver Canucks: They could be representing the Western Conference if Roberto Luongo is Roberto Luongo, the Sedins play lights out, and the defense is competent enough. In short, I believe this is the team that can make it all the way in the conference.

PACIFIC DIVISION

Anaheim Ducks: They're not making the playoffs, and given that they need to start getting younger at key spots, I think next year will include more growing pains. That means guys like Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, and Bobby Ryan will have to take on more of a leadership role. At least they have a guy that can man the nets in Jonas Hiller.

Dallas Stars: Another year of not making the playoffs, and no real clear plan on how to get there, I don't see them making a run next year. And no, I don't see Kari Lehtonen as a long term solution in net.

Los Angeles Kings: Another surprise team in the Western Conference, they won't win the Cup this year, but playoff experience is what counts. Guys like Anze Kopitar and Jonathan Quick will benefit greatly from this run, even if they don't get far.

Phoenix Coyotes: Like the Los Angeles Kings, they are young and will benefit greatly from the playoff experience. Now if only they can finally sort out the ownership issue, then things could look up for the team.

San Jose Sharks: Remember when I labeled the Hurricanes as the decade's ultimate tease? I take that back, as the Sharks are the decade's ultimate tease. Every year, they make the playoffs as one of the top seeds and every year, seemingly, they fall in the first round. Until they can make a run in the playoffs, I won't be holding my breath on them making that run.