NHL Central Division Post-Deadline Evaluations: Jets, Stars, and Avalanche Excelled with Their Transactions.
The 2024 NHL trade deadline has passed for almost a week now, and we’re continuing our assessment of each team across all four NHL divisions. Earlier this week, we analyzed the Atlantic and Metropolitan Divisions to determine which teams were trending upwards or downwards. Today, we’re evaluating each team in the Central Division, grading them based on their effectiveness in pursuing their season objectives. Here’s where they stand in the division standings:
1. COLORADO AVALANCHE, 42-20-5, 89 PTS, .664 POINT PERCENTAGE
Post-Deadline Grade: A
The Avalanche were already considered an elite team before the deadline. GM Chris MacFarland made significant moves to bolster their roster, acquiring defenseman Sean Walker and forwards Casey Mittelstadt, Brandon Duhaime, and Yakov Trenin to strengthen Colorado’s second and third lines. These additions, coupled with Valeri Nichuskin’s return, have transformed the Avalanche into a dynamic, fast, and talented lineup across all lines. While there are lingering concerns about the backup goaltending situation, with youngster Justus Annunen showing promise but lacking experience, the Avs pose a formidable challenge to any opponent in the postseason’s opening rounds. Colorado has set high expectations for itself, and their top-tier talent could be the X-factor this year.
2. DALLAS STARS, 40-18-9, 89 PTS, .664 POINT PERCENTAGE
Post-Deadline Grade: A
The Stars approached the deadline as one of the NHL’s strongest teams. The addition of veteran defenseman Chris Tanev further solidifies Dallas’ defensive core, making them one of the league’s most formidable blue line units. Young forward Logan Stankoven has also impressed in his initial NHL outings, contributing five goals and eight points in his first nine games. With these acquisitions, the Stars now boast depth and talent comparable to any team in the Central Division. Another deep playoff run is anticipated for Dallas, provided they can maintain their health, potentially securing their second Stanley Cup championship in franchise history.
3. WINNIPEG JETS, 41-19-5, 87 PTS, .669 POINT PERCENTAGE
Post-Deadline Grade: A
The Jets bolstered their depth with the pre-deadline acquisitions of veteran forwards Sean Monahan and Tyler Toffoli, along with defenseman Colin Miller. Already an above-average team, Winnipeg now has added strength to build upon last season’s first-round exit. GM Kevin Cheveldayoff faced considerable pressure to deliver improved results this season, and so far, he has met expectations. However, another early playoff exit could prompt significant changes in the offseason.
4. NASHVILLE PREDATORS, 38-25-4, 80 PTS, .597 POINT PERCENTAGE
Post-Deadline Grade: B
The Predators’ pre-deadline moves, including acquiring veteran forwards Anthony Beauvillier and Jason Zucker, didn’t make significant waves. However, they’ve surged recently, going 8-0-2 in their last 10 games, positioning themselves for a wild-card berth in the Western Conference. Although lacking star power upfront, Nashville boasts influential players like defenseman Roman Josi and goaltender Juuse Saros, which could propel them to success in the postseason. Despite opinions favoring a complete rebuild under first-year GM Barry Trotz, Nashville could still make a notable impact in the playoffs.
5. ST. LOUIS BLUES, 34-29-3, 71 PTS, .538 POINT PERCENTAGE
Post-Deadline Grade: C
The Blues initially appeared to be on the playoff bubble at the start of the season. As their postseason hopes dwindled, expectations grew for substantial trade activity.
