Winging it

When it comes right down to it, it was hardly a surprise. Given its talented lineup, rabid fan base and place in hockey history, it's no wonder that Hound Central 3.0 readers picked the Detroit Red Wings as the NHL's best team this season.

By receiving more than 45 percent of the 33 votes cast (a Hound Central 3.0 poll record), the Wings easily outdistanced Ottawa. The Senators made a bit of a run, getting within one vote of tying Detroit, but their support dropped quickly upon news of injuries to Dany Heatley and Jason Spezza.

For the record, here are the results:

Question: Who's the best team in the NHL?

Detroit Red Wings: 15 out of 33 votes cast (45.4 percent)
Ottawa Senators: 10 out of 33 (30.3 percent)
Montreal Canadiens: 3 out of 33 (9 percent)
Vancouver Canucks: 3 out of 33 (9 percent)
Dallas Stars: 1 out of 33 (3 percent)
San Jose Sharks: 1 out of 33 (3 percent)