The Stars will get their first full season of Mikko Rantanen after signing him to an eight-year, $96 million deal. Eastern Conference previewThe Eastern Conference in the National Hockey League will provide a ton of tough competition and competing storylines throughout the season. The Washington Capitals nearly won the Presidents Cup last season, but Alex Ovechkin is still getting older. None of the teams are likely to contend for the Stanley Cup, but could make some noise when it comes to the playoffs. Despite coaching changes and personnel shifting, none of these teams likely stand a chance of even making the playoffs.