Opinion: Teams that will not make the playoffs

Eastern Conference:

•   Montreal Canadiens - Have really struggled this season in defence, a lack of scoring options has been a key problem for the Habs, a very disappointing season for fans and players.

•   Carolina Hurricanes - Had some solid patches of play throughout the season, however not enough effort to make a true impact.

•   NY Islanders - Lack of defence cost this team in 2011/12. Not enough drive to make it to the post-season.

•   Toronto Maple Leafs - Very poor record as of late has pushed Toronto out of a playoff spot. A good win against Montreal and a new coach might give them a momentary lift but wont be enough for playoffs.

•   Buffalo Sabres - Solid play throughout the season, will probably only just miss out on a playoff spot.

•   Washington Capitals - Inability to string together multiple wins and poor form from star players means no post-season for this disappointing team.

•   Winnipeg Jets -  A solid first season for the new look Jets. Losing games at the wrong time has cost this team. Tampa Bay has been on fire lately and will probably overtake the Jets and steal 8th place in the conference.

Western Conference:

•   Columbus Blue Jackets – Started the season horribly and never looked like making any real impact this season. Currently on a two game winning streak, still no chance.

•   Edmonton Oilers  - The Oilers started the season fairly promisingly however a lack of consistency and failure down the stretch has put this team out of playoff contention.

•   Minnesota Wild - Inability to score goals has been a real problem for the Wild. Sad end to a great start of season.

•   Anaheim Ducks - Poor defence has proven costly for the ducks, bad effort.

•   Calgary Flames - Long losing streaks have kept this team at a low level all season, will stay in current position until the end of the season.

•   Los Angeles Kings - No consistency this season. Will be piped at the post by Colorado, who is heating up at the right time.  

•   San Jose Sharks - Have lost 8 of their last 10 games. Unable to win when it matters.

What do you think? If you have an opinion, please share it! Comments are greatly appreciated.