Looking at the standings with 8 games left I have a few observations.
UNB- No one will catch them unless they tank to get Connor Bedard.
UPEI - Slim hold on 2nd spot with SMU at their heels. Coin toss, but I'll give the edge to SMU. They have a 4 point game on the Island Jan 27.
SFX - On a 3 game win streak. Maybe they figured it out. Getting their stars back from FISU won't hurt.
UdeM - Despite a 7 game losing streak, they are 2 points behind SFX. If they can get a couple of wins they may get home ice for a round.
ACA - 2 wins in a row against "good" teams has to be a confidence builder. If UdeM continues their downward spiral, look for ACA to move up 1 spot.
DAL - Despite getting 3 points on the weekend, the math is against them.
Every team controls their own destiny, but some wins are gonna be harder than others.
For me, the biggest difference for StFX is Raymakers. He has looked pretty average most of this season, but last night he was in fine form, and made some spectacular saves.
UNB's young forwards seem to be missing the steadying influence of Gilmour and Keating. Plus factor in the new Christmas additions. Teams like X and UPEI are playing heavier hockey in the 2nd half and the new guys need to adjust, as well as not take reaction penalties.
SMU has been a slow starter team for years, in my opinion. They seem to be rounding into form now, and are more disciplined than the Panthers.
UPEI's tendency to cross the line, and not just the twins, can cost them. For example, TJ Shea started running Ukrainians near the end of their blowout against Team Canada at the FISU games, and finished the game in the box for a blatant charge.
Moncton needs to get back in the win column, but they have all the pieces to maybe win one round of playoffs, or at least not get swept.
Acadia had a great weekend. I will be more impressed if they can continue to win.
Dal is HUGE and built for the playoffs, if they could just make them. Even if Acadia regresses again, I don't see the Tigers catching them.