a tight race for 1st, and some unlucky teams

[Telkster 550]

As of Sunday (before sim), Vancouver hold on to a very slim 1st place lead in the VHL. There's a real good argument for at least 5 teams on how they can finish the season in first. At the end of the day, 1st may not mean much when there's a big handful of teams who all have a somewhat equal shot at the cup. Vancouver have continued their recent tradition of rock solid defense, but have continued to lag behind several teams offensively despite being first, but the defense alone make them one of the many contenders this year. 

 

Unfortunately, the EU suck this year, meaning Toronto and New York get the short end of the stick. Despite playoff earning records, they find themselves on the outside looking in. The flip side is that Riga, and one of Malmo or Helsinki, will most likely take the last 2 playoff spots left in the EU. Riga may be considered an underdog as round 1 looms closer, but their on paper roster could leave a surprise or 2 come playoff time.