Western conference. (NHL).(hockey)

Central Division

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS: Defensive play is so tight these days that offensive help is needed from the blue line, and D Phil Housley, Boris Mironov and Jon Klemm always seem to be stepping up in that regard for Chicago. As a result the Blackhawks have been one of the highest-scoring teams while unexpectedly challenging for the league lead in points.... The offseason additions of veterans Housley, Klemm and LW Steve Thomas have had a positive effect on the attitude and character of this team, which had too much of the former and not enough of the latter last season.

COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS: Despite the additions of LW Ray Whitney, RW Grant ...