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Fan Forum: Who Is the Best Team in the NHL’s Eastern Conference?

At this point in the NHL season, hockey fans have gotten a pretty good look at the talent spread throughout the league. Numbers don't mean everything at this point, but there's enough to determine the Eastern Conference frontrunners.

It's far from predicting the Stanley Cup victor, but which team do you think is the best in the Eastern Conference so far this season?

We may as well start with the numbers, as Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens and Washington Capitals top the three Eastern Divisions in the NHL. The Caps and the Flyers lead the East with 32 points each, but the division races are extremely close this time of year.

Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay find themselves notched in second place in their respective divisions, as they each boast 28 points on the season. The Lightning are on the rise with youngster Steve Stamkos leading the way, while the Penguins continue to present a talented and physical lineup out on the ice.

Boston's gotten off to a hot start in the East this season, as they fall just three points behind the Canadiens in the Northeast Division. The Bruins have seen a few struggles out of the gate in recent contests, but they continue to grind out wins proving their lasting power in this conference.

Also on a surprising surge are the New York Rangers. Since gaining the return of their prolific scorer, Marian Gaborik, the Rangers have reminded everyone in the East that they're still kicking in the Atlantic Division.

So who's your Eastern Conference pick? Share your thoughts below.

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Who is the Best Team in the NHL's Eastern Conference?online survey