2006 NHL Central Division Predictions

2006 Central Division Preview from Maddux Sports. With the NHL Hockey Season getting underway on October 4th now is the time to get aquatinted with the 2006 teams and players. Remember if you are NHL hockey betting look no further, as we offer hockey picks and can help you turn a profit betting on the NHL this season.

2006 NHL Central Division Preview

The big question isn’t whether Detroit or Nashville will make the playoffs or if Chicago and St. Louis will vie for last place. The major question concerns the Columbus Blue Jackets—a team that has a load of young talent, some fine veterans and sound potential. Will this be the season the Jackets make the playoffs?

In order to excel, Columbus must get as much as it possibly can from its developing players, including a much stronger power play and a much better home record. Pascal Leclaire becomes the new starting goalie; it’s essential that he remains healthy and performs well.

Although Detroit has lost some vets, it still has the juice to score at will. The worry is in the goal crease—can Chris Osgood, who’s always been a fine second man, be a top-notch number one? Additionally, the defense, which has quite a few older players, is a bit slow on the front end. The good news is that they possess great experience and talent and the vets are backed up by a good group of young skaters.

Nashville has been steadily rising in the division and may eclipse the Red Wings this season. Again, like many NHL teams, the health of the primary goalie is an essential element in determining the team’s fate. If net man Tomas Vokoun can play, this club has the offense and defense to win.

The Blackhawks and Blues will suffer through another year. The Blues look to be a bit better than last season, while the Blackhawks are about the same. Still, Chicago will probably outplay St. Louis.

This division is slowly becoming more competitive. The Blue Jackets may start to get in Detroit and Nashville’s way. It could be an interesting year in the Central Division.

2006 Central Division Projected Order of Finish

Click on the team names for the individual break downs for each hockey team.

1) Nashville Predators
2) Detroit Red Wings
3) Columbus Blue Jackets
4) Chicago Blackhawks
5) St. Louis Blues