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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 17, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Blues and fans celebrate after defeating the San Jose Sharks 3-2 at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 17, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Blues and fans celebrate after defeating the San Jose Sharks 3-2 at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 7: St. Louis Blues

Previous: 16th

Season record: 10-6-3

Our least favorite team is on a three-game win streak and has played extremely well at Scottrade Center. Maybe it’s good the Blues and Blackhawks will meet at Busch Stadium later this season.

Vladimir Tarasenko, as expected, is playing up to his potential. He’s potted 19 points in as many games to lead the club in scoring. Kevin Shattenkirk has picked up the offensive pace from the blue line with 14 points.

Alex Pietrangelo hasn’t exactly shone as the team’s new captain (eight points, minus-9 rating). And the team hasn’t entirely made up for the loss of David Backes and Troy Brouwer. But the good news is there’s room for improvement.

That’s certainly true in net as well. Jake Allen, in his first season as the official starter, hasn’t taken the bull by the horns. His .910/2.35 slashline isn’t terrible, but he needs to be better for a team that doesn’t have a ton of offensive creativity.

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