Caps on top, Devils on the bottom

A reminder: These rankings are based on many factors, and not one is scientific in nature. They're heavily influenced by early play, rather than how I expect a team to perform in April. I take into account expectations versus achievement, quality of opponents, injuries, hot or cold streaks, lucky bounces, bad breaks, official malfeasance, travel schedule, and my uncannily intuitive gut feelings. Please note that I, unlike some referees, do not have it in for your team and no homer glasses of any color were worn during the establishment of this list.

Note: Last week's position denotes position in my summer Power Rankings.

Want to send me a comment about the rankings or maybe a cool video clip that cries out to be shared? Scroll to the bottom of this page for my Mailbag. I read 'em all and if you're halfway civil -- or at least clever in your skewering of my decisions -- I'll try to get back to you.

NHL Power Rankings