As the NHL season nears its end, teams vie for playoff positions while individual accolades such as the Hart Trophy loom. Analysts debate which underperforming teams may still secure a playoff berth, with the St. Louis Blues showing defensive improvement under Jim Montgomery. Others mention the promising Utah Hockey Club, supported by a strong roster. The competition in the Eastern Conference remains fierce, highlighted by the Columbus Blue Jackets' recent struggles, showcasing the volatility of playoff races. Key individual awards and matchups await as the season reaches its climax.
"Since they hired Montgomery in late November, the Blues are just outside the top 10 in fewest goals allowed, goals allowed per game and shots allowed per game... They have been one of the NHL's more consistent defensive teams in that time, and have won seven of their most recent 10 games."
"Look out for the Utah Hockey Club... Riding a 9-4-2 record since Feb. 4, Utah hasn't lost two straight in regulation since Jan. 26... If goaltender Karel Vejmelka can perform to near-optimal ability, this club has the wherewithal to sneak into that second wild-card spot in the West."
"The East is a gauntlet and won't be decided until the last game... The Columbus Blue Jackets were in the second wild-card spot in the East, but after losing to the New York Rangers on Saturday, those two teams swapped places."
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