RSHL Quarter-Season Review: Surprises and Predictions

[Nostradumbass]

Quarter of the RSHL season is over now with most teams hitting 21 games. The division leaders include the Oilers, Blues, Ducks, Bruins, Islanders, and Whalers.

If the playoffs started today in the Eastern Conference the Oilers would play their division rival Avalanche in the first round, the Ducks would host the Jets, the Blues and Sharks would duke it out and the division rival Canucks and Flames would eliminate one contender in the very first round. In the Eastern Conference the Islanders have the number 1 seed and would host the Lightning, in an original 6 matchup the Bruins would face the Mapleleafs, the Whalers would host the division rival Capitals, and the final matchup would be the battle of red logos Red Wings and Canadiens.

Surprises:

The Penguins, perennial playoff contenders, find themselves on the outside looking in, a position unfamiliar to their fans. Meanwhile, the Capitals have defied expectations, securing a playoff spot and showing resilience.

The Oilers are dominating the league, seemingly unstoppable in their quest for the Presidents Trophy. Impressively, four out of five Gretzky teams are in playoff positions, showcasing the depth and competitiveness of the division.

Sonny Milano and Bryan Rust have emerged as goal-scoring leaders with 13 goals each, proving their offensive prowess. Quinton Byfield's 11 goals account for a staggering 25% of the Kraken's total, highlighting his critical role in the team's offense.

Jacob Middleton has been a revelation, tallying 16 points in 21 games, a remarkable feat for a defenseman. Anthony Stolarz leads the league in goals against average, solidifying his status as a top-tier goaltender.

Predictions:

Auston Matthews is predicted to catch fire and surpass Kirill Kaprizov for the goal lead, showcasing his elite scoring ability. Connor McDavid is expected to overtake Nikita Kucherov in the Art Ross race, reaffirming his status as the league's premier playmaker.

Nathan MacKinnon is set to climb into the top five RSHL scoring leaders, demonstrating his consistent offensive impact. Quinn Hughes is on track to make the Norris Trophy race a foregone conclusion by the halfway point, thanks to his stellar defensive play.

Igor Shesterkin's heavy workload may lead to an injury, potentially derailing the Rangers' season. As a result, the Ducks are predicted to cede first place to the surging Sharks, shaking up the playoff picture.

Keep your stick on the ice.

Nostradumbass

[HartfordWhalers]

Think that Byfield stat is the craziest one