By: Pat Caputo

1. Shea Weber, defenseman, Nashville – He is not only a menacing presence along the blue line, but Weber also has a terrific shot and is an excellent point man on the power play.

2. Steven Stamkos, center, Tampa Bay – With Alexander Ovechkin’s production waning, Stamkos is the best goal scorer in the NHL. A tremendous athlete, who is underrated because he plays in Tampa Bay where hockey is often overlooked.

3. Jonathan Quick, goalie, Los Angeles – Goalie is the money position in the NHL, and Quick is the best goalie in the world right now. He proved it last season while leading the eighth-seeded Kings to the Stanley Cup championship.