While Chicago still has their core, you can't make that many changes and not have it effect team chemistry. I think they'll still be good but it wouldn't surprise me to see them struggle a bit, nevermind SC hangover. I also predict Turco will have a good bounce-back season. Seems like he needed a change of scenery.
The Ducks have completely revamped their blueline. I see them struggling a lot, and personally speaking, that makes me happy.
With AFro going to the Rangers, I can only see it going one of two ways: either he struggles and gets lynched by the media and fans there, or he does well and becomes their new messiah. I say the latter is more likely. I wish the Kings would've re-signed him but the writing was on the wall a while ago.
Say what you want about Poni (as I'm sure all you Leaf fans will!
) but the more level-headed Kings fans say that he'll fit in well on a defense-first minded team and that he's good driving to the net which is something the Kings need even with guys like Smyth and Handzus. Looking forward to seeing Bernier back up Quick, but I wonder what exactly will happen with Ersberg? The guy has gotten the shaft if you ask me. I also get the feeling that Lombardi still has a trick or two up his sleeve as far as trades/signings go. May not happen soon, but I get the feeling before pre-season is over another acquisition or two is in the works.
Modano in Detroit, eh? That will be very weird to see, to say the least! Good for him and for the Wings. Still not sold on Howard in goal though. The guy always looks sloppy to me and his rebound control is mediocre.
People are saying Vancouver is the top dog. I just don't see it. Their defense isn't the strongest and as much of a beast as Luongo can be, he can also be their weak link at times. But then again, I'm a bit biased as the last playoff series left a very sour taste in my mouth from Vancouver and their fans.