NHL preview: The war for the cup is on BRIAN

4. Nashville Predators: Even the Grand 01' Opry is better.

1. Dallas Stars: Should be considered the favorite to win the Stanley Cup.

2. Phoenix Coyotes: Could this be the year they win a playoff series?

3. Anaheim Mighty Ducks: I'd rather watch the movie.

4. San Jose Sharks: They are not "Jaws on Ice."

5. Los Angeles Kings: Fuhgeddaboutit.

Northwest Division

1. Colorado Avalanche: If the Stars do not win the cup, this team will.

2. Edmonton Oilers: Memo to G.M. Glen Sather: Please trade Roman Hamrlik to the Flyers.

3. Calgary Flames: This team will get torched.

4. Vancouver Canucks: Who cares?

Brian O'Connell is the sports editor for the Loquitur. If you think this is long, wait till the college basketball predictions.