Ranking the 2018 All-Star teams
The NHL announced the complete rosters for the 2018 All-Star Game on Wednesday, naming 44 of the league's best players to represent their respective divisions in a 3-on-3 tournament.
While all teams are loaded with talent, someone has to win the darn thing, and below is our list of who is most suited to do so.
Full rosters can be seen here.
1. Atlantic Division
Dream 3-on-3 trio: Auston Matthews - Nikita Kucherov - Erik Karlsson
While Steven Stamkos is a worthy candidate here, we've seen what he's done with Kucherov all year long. Pairing the league's top goal-getter with the offensive abilities of Matthews and Karlsson would be non-stop entertainment.
With the likes of Stamkos, Brad Marchand, and Victor Hedman on the bench, the Atlantic lineup will be terrifying no matter who is on the ice.
Potential X-factor: Jack Eichel
You have to think Eichel will be excited to take advantage of having good teammates for once this season.
2. Central Division
Dream 3-on-3 trio: Patrick Kane - Nathan MacKinnion - P.K. Subban
Combining Kane's hands, MacKinnon's speed, and Subban's charisma could be lots of fun, while a supporting cast featuring Tyler Seguin and Brayden Schenn makes the Central a formidable opponent.
Potential X-factor: Blake Wheeler
Wheeler's rightfully earned the first All-Star nod of his career, and will have a platform to showcase himself as one of the best wingers in the NHL.
3. Metropolitan Division
Dream 3-on-3 trio: Sidney Crosby - Alex Ovechkin - Seth Jones
As the two greatest icons of their generation, watching Crosby and Ovechkin play together, rather than be pitted against each other as rivals, is something hockey fans should cherish.
Not to mention, one of the most effective duos in the league - John Tavares and Josh Bailey - wait in the weeds should Sid and Ovi require a break.
Potential X-factor: Taylor Hall
Hall's in the midst of a career season, and the open space of 3-on-3 will make him one of the most dangerous players on the ice.
4. Pacific Division
Dream 3-on-3 trio: Connor McDavid - Johnny Gaudreau - Drew Doughty
Just imagine the potential puck movement between McDavid and Gaudreau, two of the NHL's most creative players. However, in spite of arguably the best trio available, James Neal and Rickard Rakell as depth options makes the Pacific less of a threat.
Potential X-factor: Brock Boeser
All he does is score, and there's no reason to think that will stop in a game designed for goals.
(Photos Courtesy: Action Images)