Breaking Down the Western Conference: Chris Powers From Empty Netters

Episode 11 of The PuckPedia Hockey Show features Empty Netters co-host Chris Powers, who joins to break down the early-season landscape across the Western Conference — from the Minnesota Wild’s cap situation to the Colorado Avalanche’s Cup window and why Dallas might be the NHL’s most complete roster.

“The Wild finally have breathing room for the first time in years,” Powers said. “Now that the Parise and Suter buyouts are almost off the books, they can actually start building around Kaprizov instead of just trying to survive.”

Powers discussed how the Wild’s flexibility could shift their long-term outlook and even open the door for a major addition if the right player becomes available. The conversation then shifted to Colorado — a perennial contender with arguably the league’s best core, but lingering playoff questions.

“With MacKinnon and Makar, there’s no reason they shouldn’t be right back in the mix,” he said. “But at some point, you’ve got to turn all that talent into another Cup. This group’s window is wide open — they just need to cash in.”

The episode also dives into Dallas, a team Powers believes might quietly be built better than anyone else in the league. Between their depth, goaltending, and balance across all four lines, the Stars are positioned to make serious noise.

“Dallas has everything you want — elite goalie, veteran defense, and a young core that’s only getting better,” Powers added. “They might not have the flash of Colorado, but they’re every bit as dangerous.”

From Nashville’s rebuild to Chicago’s development curve and how the playoff race could come down to inches, Powers provides an entertaining, honest look at what’s shaping up to be one of the NHL’s toughest conferences.

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