The Calgary Flames have risen to the top of the NHL rankings by following a formula that the New York Rangers would be wise to follow. A mix of top draft picks along with savvy veterans, the Flames look to be a contender for years to come. There are questions about the Flames as they had flaws that were exposed in the playoffs.
The Flames finished in first place in the Pacific Division and the Western Conference with a record of 50-25-7. Their 107 points were second only to the Tampa Bay Lightning. They were as good on the road (24-15-2) as they were at home (26-10-5) and they boasted the second best offense in the league, combined with the ninth best defense.