Good morning, fellow hockey enthusiasts!

The NHL Power Rankings are back, and it's an exciting week as we dive deep into the data to reveal some surprising and alarming statistics that are shaping Team performances. With playoff season approaching, teams must elevate their game—or risk facing their own demons on the ice.

Rankings as of March 19

1. Winnipeg Jets (48-18-4) Last week: 3 Mark L. rank: 2 Dom L. rank: 1 Scary Stat: .875 Save Percentage in Playoffs The Jets have been phenomenal this season, making it challenging to uncover a concerning statistic. However, Connor Hellebuyck's playoff save percentage over the last three seasons sits at .875, which is troubling for the team as they eye a strong playoff run. While Hellebuyck is currently showcasing his talent as one of the best goalies, there is a lingering sense of unease regarding past playoff performances.

2. Dallas Stars (43-21-4) Last week: 1 Mark L. rank: 1 Dom L. rank: 2 Scary Stat: Relying on a Backup Defenseman The Stars face uncertainty with their top defenseman, Miro Heiskanen, likely out for the first round of the playoffs. The reliance on Cody Ceci, who has been outmatched in recent games, could spell disaster for a squad aiming for the Cup.

3. Washington Capitals (46-15-8) Last week: 4 Mark L. rank: 3 Dom L. rank: 3 Scary Stat: 11.2% Shooting Percentage The Capitals are enjoying an impressive shooting percentage, the highest since the 2007-08 season. However, there's a looming question of sustainability as they advance to the playoff—time becomes limited, and can this rate hold up against tougher defenses?

4. Florida Panthers (42-24-3) Last week: 2 Mark L. rank: 5 Dom L. rank: 4 Scary Stat: -6 Goal Differential with New Acquisitions Seth Jones's addition has come with challenges; since his arrival, the Panthers are outscoring by a staggering -6 in five-on-five play. Adjustments are crucial as they prepare for tougher matchups in the playoffs.

5. Carolina Hurricanes (42-22-4) Last week: 7 Mark L. rank: 4 Dom L. rank: 5 Scary Stat: -0.19 Game Score Andrei Svechnikov's recent struggle has hindered the Hurricanes' scoring efficiency. With key injuries impacting the team, they need their primary players to regain form quickly.

6. Vegas Golden Knights (39-19-7) Last week: 5 Mark L. rank: 6 Dom L. rank: 6 Scary Stat: 2.23 Goals Per 60 Minutes Despite dominating in expected goals, the Golden Knights' inconsistency in scoring may pose a threat to their playoff aspirations. Their power play must improve to capitalize more effectively.

7. Colorado Avalanche (42-25-3) Last week: 6 Mark L. rank: 5 Dom L. rank: 6 Scary Stat: 48% Expected Goals Rate without Stars The Avalanche are strongly impacted when Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar are off the ice. Finding reliable depth will be crucial for their playoff success.

8. Toronto Maple Leafs (42-24-3) Last week: 9 Mark L. rank: 8 Dom L. rank: 8 Scary Stat: 48.7% Expected Goals Percentage The Leafs are struggling to keep pace in terms of expected goals, particularly concerning as they gear up for what could be an unpredictable playoff run.

9. Tampa Bay Lightning (40-23-5) Last week: 8 Mark L. rank: 9 Dom L. rank: 9 Scary Stat: +0.32 xGA/60 with Brayden Point on Ice Point’s defensive struggles raise concerns as the Lightning set their sights on a playoff contender.

10. Edmonton Oilers (40-24-5) Last week: 10 Mark L. rank: 9 Dom L. rank: 11 Scary Stat: 118 Point Pace by McDavid For Connor McDavid, a 118-point pace is merely a footnote compared to past seasons. If he falters, so could the Oilers' playoff hopes.

As we wrap up, the stakes are higher than ever in the NHL. With the playoffs right around the corner, each team must confront their weaknesses head-on. The upcoming weeks will undoubtedly be filled with drama, thrilling games, and potentially shocking outcomes. Buckle up—it's playoff season!