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Atlantic Division: Rebuilds Ignite Unexpected NHL Powerhouses
16 May
Summary
- Buffalo missed playoffs for 14 consecutive seasons before this year.
- Montreal went from last in Atlantic to playoff contenders in four years.
- Both teams achieved success through extensive rebuilding projects.
The NHL's Atlantic Division, historically a powerhouse featuring the Florida Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning, is witnessing a dramatic shift in its competitive landscape. The division, which saw five of the Eastern Conference's playoff teams this year, is poised to become even tougher with the emergence of unexpected challengers.
Teams like the Buffalo Sabres and Montreal Canadiens, once considered bottom feeders, have undergone extensive rebuilding projects to become legitimate championship contenders. The Sabres ended a 14-season playoff drought, while the Canadiens, after finishing last in the Atlantic for three straight years, are now vying for a spot in the Eastern Conference Final.
These turnarounds are largely attributed to strategic coaching and player development. Martin St. Louis's interim coaching tenure, beginning in February 2022, marked a significant positive change for the Canadiens. Similarly, the Sabres' rebuild, initiated before the 2018-19 season, has seen key player developments like Rasmus Dahlin and Tage Thompson emerge as stars, transforming the team's fortunes and its offensive capabilities.
