The Chicago Blackhawks and Los Angeles Kings have each won two Stanley Cups over the past four years. Will the Western Conference's streak continue in 2015-16?
A clean slate at the start of a new season provides optimism for every team: A look at the Western Conference teams' reasons for hope entering the new campaign.
Disclaimer: This is not to say that each item is created equal, or that each one is the only component to a deep run. This list does not account for injuries, which could cripple even the strongest teams. These are simply plausible reasons why your favorite team could be playing late into the season.
Anaheim Ducks: Picking up where they left off. The Ducks had 109 points last season, finished one victory shy of the Stanley Cup Final and return nearly all of their key players, so that’s a good start. Matt Beleskey and Francois Beauchemin are out, but they have been replaced by Carl Hagelin and Kevin Bieksa. Shawn Horcoff and Chris Stewart provide additional depth for a team that is still young – and hungry to win – at its key spots. (Peter Barzilai)
Arizona Coyotes: Up to the kids. Everything will have to go right, and then some, for them to make the playoffs, let alone win the Cup. Coach Dave Tippett favors a tight style, which should keep the Coyotes in many games. But to pull off the shocker the team will need at least several of its top prospects, including Max Domi, Anthony Duclair , Dylan Strome , Christian Dvorak, to force their way onto the NHL club and put up big numbers. (PB)
Calgary Flames: Next step. After going from 42 points in 2012-13 to 77 points in 2013-14 to 97 points last season, the rebuild is done and the Flames are equipped to compete for the Cup. The roster is brimming with young talent, including T.J. Brodie , Sean Monahan, Johnny Gaudreau , Lance Bouma and Sam Bennett. Add in newcomers Dougie Hamilton and Michael Frolik , as well as a healthy Mark Giordano , and the Flames are primed to take the next step. (PB)
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