Predicting the NHL’s Atlantic Division in 2024-25

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2. Florida Panthers

After winning the franchises first Stanley Cup last year, can the Florida Panthers repeat in 2024? They lost some key contributors, but the majority of the band is still back together. A potential cup hangover might hinder their chances of the division crown, but they still remain right in the mix. 

Atlantic Division Odds: +230

3. Tampa Bay Lightning

There was a definite culture shift in Tampa Bay after they let their former captain depart in free agency. Still, with annual Hart trophy candidate Nikita Kucherov running the ship, the Bolts are a good bet to find their way into the top three in the division. 

Atlantic Division Odds: +420

4. Boston Bruins

It's rare that you see a team in the headlines prior to the season with contract negotiations, let alone the usually buttoned up Boston Bruins. The buzz around Jeremy Swayman is concerning. Can the B's manage in goal if Swayman isn't in the mix?

Atlantic Division Odds: +500

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5. Ottawa Senators

After bringing in Linus Ullmark to shore up the goaltending position, the Ottawa Senators are due to rise in the Eastern Conference. The issue for Ottawa is that they play in a loaded Atlantic division. Who can they unseat in the playoff mix? 

Atlantic Division Odds: +1000

6. Buffalo Sabres

It's hard to project the Buffalo Sabres this year. They brought back a former bench boss in Lindy Ruff to man the ship, and there are plenty of useful parts on this roster. They've yet to come together and show strides of being a playoff team, but they should be improved. 

Atlantic Division Odds: +1800

7. Montreal Canadiens

I'm not sold on the Montreal Canadiens being as bad this year. I think there's some key young players in their lineup that take steps. Pair that with a healthy Kirby Dach and the dynamic presence of Lane Hutson on the backend, and there's room for optimism. 

Atlantic Division Odds: +10000

8. Detroit Red Wings

I don't believe the Detroit Red Wings rebuild has gone according to plan, and I'm not banking on them sneaking into the playoffs this year. Yes, they fell just short last year, but I think there's going to be a youth movement for many teams around them, and the Red Wings won't improve enough to get over that hump. 

Atlantic Division Odds: +1400

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