This Wednesday, the 2009-10 NHL season begins in earnest as Maple Leaf nation settles in for another long and disappointing winter, full of self-deceit. "Well Gus, it looks as though this year won't pan out...but things are looking up for next year." Some of these people actually cheer for the Blue Jays all summer as well. But I digress.
With the season set to commence, we here at Canada Twenty Ten feel it our duty to provide our twentyteners with a pre-season power rankings of our boys.
By position, we have identified the players in the order of their relative security in gaining a roster spot this February.
You can count on this blog to provide a weekly Power Ranking bracket, in addition to our usual shenanigans, up until the team is announced this winter.
The Forwards:
- Crosby - He is the STAR of this team and could very well wear the "C".
- Iginla - Respected as the best leader; revered as one of the best players.
- Nash - This BIG guy can score BIG goals and we expect BIG things.
- Richards - "Mr. Everything" in Philly and Babcock's endorsement means he's a LOCK.
- Getzlaf - Smooth hands make him a force and possible #2 centreman.
- E. Staal - Strong playoff performance and can play any forward position.
- Carter - A goal machine last year, he's also versatile up front.
- Lecavalier - If healthy, he can dominate, but needs a strong start.
- Toews - Played every position at camp and would be a perfect fit as 13th forward.
- Heatley - If he can overcome this summer's drama, he will be leaned on for goals.
- Morrow - A warrior, if healthy he can be a shutdown guy with Richards.
- Doan - So much international experience, but the Phoenix situation may hurt him.
- Thornton - Fate very much tied to a strong start and chemistry with Heatley.
On the outside looking in:
- St. Louis - Little guy has a ton of heart but still may not be enough.
- Perry - Ripe to steal a "role" position should someone ahead of him falter.
- Gagne - Despite past international glory, he will need a strong start to season.
- Niedermayer – A LOCK as backbone of the blueline and possible captain.
- Pronger – Nobody wants to play against this guy.
- Boumeester – Steady as she goes with good wheels and smart hockey head.
- Weber – Underrated by the casual fan, he’s big and mean with a great shot.
- Boyle – Little guy will be counted on to lead the rush.
- Phaneuf – A return to form is necessary, but just ask Okposo about Dion.
- Green – Great offensive talent but defensive ability may keep him off squad.
- Regher – Can replace any of the defensive-minded players in front of him.
- Keith – A Strong start will make it hard to keep him off the team.
The Goalies:
- Brodeur – Winningest goalie of all time just needs to stay healthy.
- Luongo – Could be the #1 come February and would feel at home in Vancouver.
- Ward – ’09 playoffs and past Conn Smythe performance bolster his resume.
- Fleury – He has a Cup and shed many of his past spastic tendencies in the crease.
- Mason – Young guy is a viable option if those in front of him go down.
Let the festivities begin!
WHAMMO!!