NHL Power Rankings: Pre-Training Camp Edition

May 13, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) reacts against the New York Rangers during the third period in game seven of the second round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

5. Washington Capitals

The Caps had an active offseason. They brought in T.J. Oshie and Justin Williams, but lost Troy Brouwer, Joel Ward and Mike Green. They also put all their eggs in goaltender Braden Holtby’s basket with a five-year, $30.5 million extension.

Washington should be even more explosive offensively with Oshie and Williams, and Alex Ovechkin is still the best natural goal scorer in the game. Defensive depth could be an issue, but head coach Barry Trotz is one of the best defensive coaches in the NHL.

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The Capitals should be a favorite to win the Eastern Conference. If Holtby lives up to his contract and the Caps continue to light the lamp, Trotz will make sure the defense is good enough to make a run.

Next: Next: No. 4

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