Despite losing (twice) for the first time last week, the Washington Capitals remain No. 1 in THN's Power Rankings, but the San Jose Sharks are closing in fast.
The Sharks stumbled out of the gate with three losses in their first four regular season games. However, since then, they've won five in a row, including tough road wins over Boston and Detroit. They're getting solid goaltending from Antti Niemi (2.19 goals-against average, .917 save percentage), a boatload of offense from Joe Pavelski (a team-best seven goals and 11 points), and all-around admirable two-way play (seven players are a plus-4 or better). After finishing up their six-game road trip against the Rangers on Halloween night, San Jose has a much less frightening six consecutive home games. That said, four of those come against playoff teams from last season (Pittsburgh, Nashville, L.A. and Detroit), so they'll still have to be at their best.
Be sure to check back each Monday for the latest rankings.
The Hockey News ranks the teams 1-30 each Monday based on a combination of last week’s play and a squad’s overall outlook.
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