2011-12 Eastern Conference Predictions

Now that the dust has settled on the hectic span that is wrongfully named the "offseason," we can now see our teams' pictures coming into focus. That means it's time to start throwing our two cents in on the upcoming six monthes. Here's my 2011-12 NHL Season Predictions for the Eastern Conference.

1. Washington Capitals - Once again the Caps take the East and along with depth scoring and a revamped goaltending group they serve as the early favorites.
2. Philadelphia Flyers - A new look offense is held together by outstanding defensive corps in front of Bryzgalov, a late push shots them into the division lead.
3. Buffalo Sabres - A strong start combined with a slow start by division rivals proves key in Buffalo as they grab their first division title under new ownership.
4. Pittsburgh Penguins - Lack of scoring is made up for by great team play and winning the games they should, a quiet team heading into the playoffs.
5. Boston Bruins - After a first half that had fans wondering the Bruins pulled together in what ends up being the toughes division in hockey.
6. Montreal Canadiens - Carey Price carries a team with a diminishing offense and aging defense. The Vezina contender finally give Montreal what they have sought after since Roy.
7. Carolina Hurricanes - Plenty of depth scoring sees the Canes as the top team at the half way point, but as reality sets in the team falters down the stretch.
8. Toronto Maple Leafs - The Leafs carries by a group of players looking to prove themselves make a late push after a productive trade deadline.
9. Florida Panthers - Outplayed by their division down the stretch, the Panthers inexperience gloomed large come march.
10. New York Rangers - An off year comes to a team who stacked up in the offseason. Under-performing depth players ultimately kill the blue shirts hopes.
11. Tampa Bay Lightning - An awful start sumarized by terrible play in net, the Bolts were headed to an unwelcome top pick in the draft. Until, Dustin Tokarski emerged and the team put together a late push.
12. New York Islanders - Depleted from a hectic offseason, the Isles build up hopes with hot stretches but they are too few and far apart.
13. New Jersey Devils - A new coach sends the Devils back 12 monthes and another dreadful season occurs. Team rebuilds at deadline.
14. Ottawa Senators - Nothing seems to click permanatly and the Sens sell shop to continue to build towards brighter days.
15. Winnipeg Jets - The NHL's newest team has a rough time due to travel and youth, however a first overall pick awaits them come late June.

What do you think? Couple of picks don't sit well with you? Comment below with your thoughts!