Metropolitan Division Wide Open Behind Champion Hurricanes

The Carolina Hurricanes enter the season as the clear team to beat in the Metropolitan Division after winning the Stanley Cup and retaining nearly their entire championship core. Behind them, the division is expected to be highly competitive, with Washington, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and the New York Islanders and Rangers competing for limited playoff spots. Washington is seeking a deeper run with Alex Ovechkin returning for his 22nd season and an offseason that added Alex Tuch, Jordan Kyrou, Boone Jenner, and Vincent Desharnais. Teams such as Columbus will need strong starts and consistent play to survive what is expected to be a crowded playoff race.