Arizona Coyotes: Predicting Pacific Division Standings (POLL)
Where Arizona Coyotes Will Finish Next Season In Tough Pacific Division
**At the end of this post, you will have the opportunity to vote on where you think the team will finish**
May 30, 2015; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks goalie Frederik Andersen (31) stands behind teammates on the bench as the Ducks play in an empty net situation against the Chicago Blackhawks in the third period in game seven of the Western Conference Final of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Now that the draft has transpired, and free agency has pretty much done the same thing, it’s time to look forward and predict how well the Arizona Coyotes will finish in THE toughest division in the NHL. Last season was not a memorable one to say the least, but when you take an objective look at the competition after the dust of the off-season has settled, it doesn’t look too promising.
Here’s a rundown of where I predict each team finishing:
- Anaheim Ducks – Finished 1st in the Pacific division last season
- Departed players: Beachemin, Belesky, Etem
- New arrivals: Horcuff, Bieska, Haglin
The Ducks weren’t really active, and why would they need to be? They went to the Western Conference Finals, and that’s quite an accomplishment. Each of the three players who sought greener pastures were replaced with comparable players. They will be right there again this season due to a powerful front line consisting of Perry and Getzlaf. They have a couple of players who are moving up in their skill levels in Betanen and Silfverberg. The Duck Dynasty (sorry, couldn’t resist…) will continue.
Predicted finish: 1st in Pacific Division
Next: L.A. Kings to finish 2nd