The race really comes down to these two. Sure, the Atlantic has Tampa, but nobody else significant. All eight Metro teams would be no less than fourth place in the Atlantic. Same with the Central. Five NHL teams have fewer than 40 points. Three in the 30s, two in the twenties. None of those teams are in the Metro or the Central.
Last season, nine teams had more than 100 points. An arbitrary number, but a nice round one. Four of those teams were in the Metro. The New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals and Columbus Blue Jackets all crossed the threshold.