NHL Power Rankings: Chicago Blackhawks Hold Firm Despite Win Streak

By Gail Kauchak

Mar 7, 2017

Mar 4, 2017; Nashville, TN, USA; Chicago Blackhawks players celebrate after the game-winning goal by defenseman Brian Campbell (51) during the third period against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. The Blackhawks won 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

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No. 5: Pittsburgh Penguins

Previous: No. 4

Record: 40-16-8 (88 points)

The Pens lost to the Chicago Blackhawks this past week, but they made up for it with wins to the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Buffalo Sabres. Their victory against the Sabres was especially telling; they came back to win after being down 3-0. That’s what championship teams do. The Pens are currently tied with the Columbus Blue Jackets in points and games. Columbus holds the ROW advantage, so the Jackets are still listed at second place in the Metropolitan Division. It will be pretty exciting to see who ends up with second and who ends up with third.