Avs, Stars Rule Rankings as Sabres, Jackets Surge

The Avalanche cling to the top spot in power rankings, but the Stars nip at their heels after a scorching run that includes a recent shootout thriller in Denver. Buffalo and Columbus keep climbing with hot streaks that have GMs rethinking their playoff odds, while lesser lights like the Sabres shock the league with unexpected grit. These shifts come at a pivotal moment, with trade deadline moves still shaking up the standings and every point counting toward May's madness.