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Analysis

NHL Power Rankings: Eastern Conference Taking Control

By Colin Likas
Nov 21, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; The New York Rangers celebrate an empty net goal by center Derek Stepan (middle) against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the third period at the PPG Paints Arena. The Rangers won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; The New York Rangers celebrate an empty net goal by center Derek Stepan (middle) against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the third period at the PPG Paints Arena. The Rangers won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 20, 2016; Raleigh, NC, USA; Winnipeg Jets forward Mark Scheifele (55) celebrates his third period goal with teammate Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Winnipeg Jets 3-1. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Raleigh, NC, USA; Winnipeg Jets forward Mark Scheifele (55) celebrates his third period goal with teammate Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Winnipeg Jets 3-1. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 21: Winnipeg Jets

Previous: 11th

Season record: 9-10-2

Things haven’t been great for the Jets since they used a big third period to mash the Blackhawks last week. In fact, Winnipeg has lost its last three games since then.

Winnipeg has the same issue as Philadelphia in that there are plenty of scoring options but not much to be happy about on the back end. Mark Scheifele and Patrik Laine have both surpassed 10 goals and combined for 41 points. Nikolaj Ehlers has added 18 points.

An increase in skillful youth and speed has been good for the Jets’ offense, but the defense is still a work in progress. If that can get worked out, Connor Hellebuyck should be able to lift things from in the net. Good pieces in place, but it’s still a growing team.

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