NHL Power Rankings 2/18: Rangers and Maple Leafs big risers after trades

The NHL Trade Deadline is only two weeks away. Over the next two weeks, teams will be looking to make upgrades everywhere. Already, two of the biggest in the NHL have gone off the board with Vladimir Tarasenko and Ryan O'Reilly. Who will be next?

NHL Power Rankings 2/18

1- Boston Bruins

They're the best team in the league and it’s not even close. The Bruins have two elite goaltenders, and anyone on the roster can score at any time. The most exciting prospects will see who they acquire at the deadline.

2- Carolina Hurricanes

The "Canes" have been red hot lately, still lapping on the heels of the Bruins in the Presidents’ Trophy race. The "Canes" have also seen recent production from younger depth pieces that have elevated them from the rest of their division.

3- Dallas Stars

The Stars definitely don’t blow anyone out. When comparing their win total with the rest of the league, it’s measly, but they force a lot of overtime. The reason for that is Jake Oettinger.

4- Toronto Maple Leafs

The Maple Leafs made a trade that will shoot them into the upper echelon of the NHL Eastern Conference. Having a second line of O’Reilly, Tavares and Marner is scary.

5- New York Rangers

The Rangers are still one piece away at the deadline from being one of the most dangerous teams in the NHL. Tarasenko and Panarin on the same line is a joy to watch, and their blue line is underrated.

6- New Jersey Devils

The Devils are good and young. They’re seeing the fruits of their rebuild about a year earlier than expected. That means they’re playing with house money, and it's dangerous. Watch out for this team at the NHL Trade Deadline.

7- Winnipeg Jets

They have a lot depth. And a ton of cap room too. The Jets don’t have a game-breaker on offense, but they’re getting production from depth pieces that are having career years.

8- Tampa Bay Lightning

They’re still as good as ever. The question is whether the tires are starting to get a little worn down at this point in Tampa Bay. They could make a massive deal in two weeks and run it all back.

9- Vegas Golden Knights

The Vegas Golden Knights spent like they were royalty when acquiring Jack Eichel, and it’s paid back in spades. The team’s well seasoned now, and they could take down anyone in the league on any given night. If the Golden Knights create enough room for another piece, they’ll be set to be in the cup mix.

10- Colorado Avalanche

Here come the champs. The Avalanche have been one of the hottest teams in the league since the All-Star game. Pair a few resurgent performances from Nathan MacKinnon with some elite goaltending from Alex Goergiev and they'll be an NHL contender again.