Who Will Be The Next Stanley Cup Champions?

With the success of the Detroit Red Wings through defensive minded hockey, many teams are trying to build teams with defensive minded forwards, and stay at home defenseman. There are a few teams that are on the rise, and could be teams to look out for. One of those teams is the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Lightning revamped their roster through solid drafting and free agency. The Bolts drafting of superstar Steve Stamkos gave them another play-maker along with Vincent Lecavalier. The Lightning also reunited with the speedy Vaclav Prospal. With the additions of Gary Roberts, Ryan Malone, and Adam Hall the bolts have added toughness to a finesse team. Another team that could surprise people could be the Atlanta Thrashers. In no way do I believe their a shoe in to make a playoff spot, but the Thrashers are a young team with good talent. Ilya Kovalchuck will be looked at as the leader for the inexperienced Thrashers. The Thrashers definitely got bang for their buck in the Marian Hossa trade.  ... (link)