Updated NHL Power Rankings

We’re almost down to our Sweet 16 in the NHL. (AP Images)"]

This is the last week of the 2008-09 regular season, and from a handicapping perspective, the tight playoff races in both conferences should ensure an honest effort from everyone involved. Mind you, the Boston Bruins can afford to coast after sewing up first place in the East. The nine teams that have already been eliminated? Time to enhance their draft lottery chances with a timely loss or two.

Here are the Top 5 and Bottom 5 teams in our NHL power rankings.

1. Boston Bruins: 6-0; outscoring opponents 21-11
2. San Jose Sharks: 7-3; 30-25
3. Washington Capitals: 5-1-2; 31-24
4. Detroit Red Wings: 6-4; 34-27
5. Carolina Hurricanes: 8-0; 27-15

26. Dallas Stars: 2-6-2; 24-37
27. Los Angeles Kings: 2-5-1; 15-20
28. New York Islanders: 2-5-1; 20-31
29. Tampa Bay Lightning: 0-4-2; 11-22
30. Colorado Avalanche: 1-7-1; 14-37

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