I think realistically we're the last legit team that is undefeated - which is always nice. Sure, Atlanta is undefeated but they didn't make the playoffs last year, they could just be on a streak or something...
It's still nice to see the Flyers on top... that is... until they go into their annual flounder and lose 6 straight... lol It's like you can count on it.
Anyone remember a few years ago, they set, or got close to (I forget which) the franchise record for longest unbeaten streak, and then right after went on a winless streak for about a month? Maybe we'll eventually get some consistency in this team, but who knows when...
The background regarding that list is not currently listed on their site now (or I'm too lazy to look further), but that isn't a poll. Nobody votes. ESPN has some sort of formula they use to determine their rankings.
Based on the effectiveness to this point in the season of their power play, two shutouts from Hackett, and an undefeated team record, it's not surprising that they're at the top. I'll agree it doesn't mean all too much, but it's based on data, not somebody's opinion.
we've been cursed by espn (loss to the kings). i wonder if the curse is as bad as being on the cover of S.I.?
Usually not...ESPN has even commented on the curse of being in first place there before, IIRC. The usual result is that team drops down a couple of spots, and then resumes playing well. The top spots tend to rotate between just a few teams, at least once you get further into the season (typically Vancouver, Colorado, New Jersey, Detroit, Ottawa, Flyers on occasion).
