SB Nation's NHL Power Rankings, Week 1: Capitals Claim Top Spot

NHL Top Ten Power Rankings

Off to a great start, but tough tests in Philly and Detroit this week will be good early-season measuring sticks.

- J.P. of Japers' Rink

The penalties are still a bit out of control, but with the special teams playing almost flawless hockey, Ray Emery looking like a (very) early candidate for Vezina, and the goals coming from every corner of the offensive attack, the Flyers have been practically unbeatable in two games against solid Eastern Conference competition.

-Travis Hughes of Broad Street Hockey

The Penguins make a justified appearance in the Top 10 but it's not without concern. Sure, the record says 2-0, but they were forced to hang on to a lead against the Rangers (very close chances at times) and made a valiant comeback against the Islanders to push it to OT and ultimately a shootout to steal the win.

-Frank of Pensburgh

In just two games against the defending Western Conference champions, the Blues showed that the incredible run at the end of last season probably wasn't a mirage and this young team is ready to challenge for the division title. Maybe.

It was a tale of two teams in San Jose this week, and will likely remain so for the majority of October- the loss of Joe Pavelski coupled with a top heavy blueline should produce a wide range of performances until the new additions begin to click.

- Mr. Plank of fearthefin.com

After dropping the opening game in Finland, the Blackhawks stepped up every aspect of their play and made back-up goalie Antti Niemi look like the true #1 in the second, he's not though - if the Hawks play every game like that though, this is going to be a very good year.

-Matthew Dirt of Second City Hockey

Calgary's results from the first week were good, although their execution wasn't. The team parlayed good goaltending and some really favorable bounces to 2 straight victories, despite giving up a average of 37 shots against.

-Kent Wilson of Matchsticks and Gasoline

The Red Wings got off to a rough start, dropping back-to-back contests against the Blues in Sweden. Goaltending and defense was questionable, but the offense did score six goals in two games. This will either be a minor blip in the season or a sign of things to come.

The Avs are playing better than expected in just about every facet of the game. They have a tough road trip coming up, though.