The New York Islanders have a better chance of ending their playoff drought than they have had the past few years. Even though I have reservations about their defense, they are my sleeper pick in the Eastern Conference.
Why the 14th-place Islanders, who have missed the playoffs the past four seasons, have a reasonable chance to be six places better this season:
http://islanders.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=585863I have my reservations but I think there is a good chance they make the post season. Much of that relying on health. The Defense is mostly young and lacking a stud to take over for Mark Streit when his UFA period kicks in. Hamonic had a good 20 points or so in 50 games this past season as well.
This team stays healthy and they should do damage in the east this season.
Florida, if all their chickens hatch, should be decent as well.
Team I have falling out the top eight in the conference is Philly.