Not every compelling race has to include the best competitors. That is the case with the NHL's Atlantic Division this season.
Of the eight teams, only the Montreal Canadiens have a positive goal differential, and none of them have won more than half of their past 10 games. But the difference between second place and last is only eight points in the standings, which not only sets up for some excitement down the stretch, it also gives each team hope for a postseason berth.
One key injury or trade could swing the division, but if the teams remain mostly as they are in late December, how will it all play out? Let's have a look at which direction the stats are pointing us and project the order of finish for all eight teams:
