NHL Power Rankings: Chicago Blackhawks Move Up As Races Tighten

By George Clifford

Feb 7, 2017

Feb 4, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; Chicago Blackhawks left wing Artemi Panarin (72) and right wing Patrick Kane (88) celebrate Kane's game tying goal against the Dallas Stars during the third period at the American Airlines Center. The Blackhawks defeat the Stars 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

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Feb 5, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers right wing Michael Grabner (40) controls the puck in front of Calgary Flames left wing Micheal Ferland (79) during the second period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 8: New York Rangers

Previous: 9th

Season record: 33-18-1 (67 points)

Riding a two-game win streak, the Rangers host the Ducks tonight at MSG, where they’ve posted a middling 15-11-1 record so far on home ice. Speedster Michael Grabner leads the team with 23 goals, but Henrik Lundqvist is still struggling to find a groove, and the team could use some help to bolster the blue line.

NHL: Edmonton Oilers at Montreal Canadiens /

No. 7: Montreal Canadiens

Previous: 5th

Season record: 30-16-8 (68 points)

The Habs have stumbled a bit recently, going 3-5-2 over the past 10 games, but can get back to winning against Colorado, Arizona and St. Louis in their next three games.