Week 2 of the NHL season has concluded which means that fans we have begun to formulate opinions about the Boston Bruins and other fans no doubt have formed theirs, opening an avenue of speculation and over-reaction.
Some teams have been able to continue their success from last season (Carolina Hurricanes and our own Boston Bruins), while others are enjoying hot starts, hinting towards a possible breakout (Buffalo Sabres).
We have seen some in-division match-ups early that have brought surprising results. Often, we overlook the importance of these in-division match-ups at the beginning of the season while highlighting them as the playoffs approach.
The Boston Bruins have not played any in-division teams after two weeks, but they have continued their dominance over the Western Conference after finishing last year 25-5-5 against the West Coast.
Regardless of what we have seen after Boston’s first six games, we can be certain of one thing; David Pastrnak is an elite talent.
After week two of the NHL season, here are my power rankings of the Atlantic Division.
8. Ottawa Senators
The up and down season continues for Brady Tkachuk and the Ottawa Senators. I am predicting that the Sens will consistently remain at the bottom of the power rankings even if they have the capability of hitting hot streaks.
The unpredictability and style of play of D.J. Smith and his young team will provide their fans with hope, like after the 4-2 win against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday, while also sending them into a frustrated frenzy like after Monday night’s loss to the Minnesota Wild (1-4-0) on home ice.
The Bruins went 4-0 last season against the Senators, highlighted by an OT win on the road last December after a tap-in goal scored by none other than Torey Krug (as seen here).
Bruins face off against the Senators for the first time this season on November 2nd.