5 – Tampa Bay Lightning
The Tampa Bay Lightning ended their four-game losing streak in a convincing fashion with a 4-0 shutout win over the Dallas Stars. They lost those aforementioned four games by multiple goals, so the solace is that the Sabres aren’t the only team in the Atlantic with some issues. The difference? Tampa has been more consistent and they have won more games.
4 – Toronto Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been on a roll lately, winning six of their last 10 contests, and losing three of those games by just one goal apiece (two losses in overtime). If this team steps up their overall performance by just one more rung, they could go on a tear before the calendar year ends.
3 – Florida Panthers
Following their shutout loss to the Winnipeg Jets, the Florida Panthers have either made statement wins, or they suffered from narrow losses. If they keep up the consistency and if the Boston Bruins struggle through one more rough stretch, then Florida will have a chance to overtake them in the standings.
2 – Detroit Red Wings
The Detroit Red Wings are getting hot just the 2023-24 season is entering the early playoff race. If they can sustain this success, then the Wings will enter the 2024 postseason as one of the Atlantic Division’s top three teams.