from Jimmy Hascup of USA TODAY,

Almost two months into the NHL season, five points separate the Eastern Conference's worst team from a wild card spot, and six points separate the West's worst from a playoff position. There is a seven-point difference between the East's best team and the second wild card, while 10 points separate those teams in the West.

Which in many words says one thing (aside from there's a lot of hockey left to be played): There's a lot of parity (or mediocrity, if that's how you want to view it) in the NHL, and It's unclear if there are any great teams.

Do the Chicago Blackhawks, leading the league with 35 points, stand out as a fierce contender? Credit to them: They have survived with a 30th-ranked penalty kill and an injury to Jonathan Toews, who has struggled with 12 points in 25 games. But they are a top-heavy team, with their stars required to do the heavy lifting....

Then there’s the Montreal Canadiens, who at 16-5-2 are second in the league with 34 points. The Canadiens are an improved team over last season, thanks to Carey Price’s health. But a surefire Cup contender now?

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