Top 10 : CAPSULES AND RANKINGS

1. Philadelphia (21-12-3)

The Flyers have been superb at both ends of the ice during a 9-0-2 streak and have outscored opponents, 44-18.

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2. Dallas (21-11-3)

Team defense has prevailed in Stars’ 5-1-2 run. Goalie Andy Moog’s 16 victories are three more than his total last season.

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3. N.Y. Rangers (18-14-5)

The Rangers are 11-1-1 in the last month. Goalie Mike Richter has a 10-0-1 streak and Wayne Gretzky has 24 points in a 12-game scoring streak.

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4. New Jersey (19-11-3)

Discipline plus tight defense plus solid goaltending equal a 5-0-2 streak. Sounds like the Devils’ 1995 Stanley Cup formula.

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5. Colorado (20-10-5)

The Avalanche rallied to defeat Detroit, but injured Peter Forsberg is missed. They’re hurting, and sloppy defensively.

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6. Florida (20-8-7)

The Panthers are wobbling. Their offense is erratic, but injured center Rob Niedermayer may be back by the weekend to help.

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7. Detroit (18-11-6)

Losing a 3-2 lead over Colorado was a big psychological loss for the Red Wings.

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8. Buffalo (18-14-3)

These guys don’t quit, thanks to Coach Ted Nolan.

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9. Pittsburgh (17-15-3)

Jaromir Jagr has cooled off but Mario Lemieux has eight goals in his last four games.

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10. Hartford (17-11-6)

The Whalers are hearing the Sabres’ foot steps in the Northeast.

GAME OF THE WEEK

BUFFALO at PITTSBURGH

* When--Saturday. Time--4:30 p.m. TV--None.

* Storyline--Despite losing center Pat LaFontaine to post-concussion trauma--and despite a lineup that has more toughness than talent--the Sabres are competing with Hartford for the Northeast lead. They’re converting grit into goals and getting the most out of tough guy Matthew Barnaby, Jason Dawe and the speedy but often-injured Donald Audette. The Penguins have reversed a horrible start and are 11-2-2 since Nov. 22, thanks largely to Jaromir Jagr (32 goals and 55 points) and Mario Lemieux (23 and 53).