2012 ALL-STAR BREAK: If the playoffs began today...

With the stars of today in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada this weekend for the 2012 NHL All-Star Game, the Detroit Red Wings are currently the top team, not only in the Western Conference, but in the NHL itself with 67 points. However, within their own Central Division, three other teams are in hot pursuit for the top spot: St. Louis with 65 points and Nashville & Chicago tied at 64.

In the Eastern Conference, the New York Rangers have a slim lead with 66 points with the defending Stanley Cup Champion Boston Bruins right behind them with 64 points. With Pavel Datsyuk & Jimmy Howard representing the Red Wings during the All-Star break, here's how the playoffs would look if it were to start today.

WESTERN CONFERENCE

#1 Detroit (67) vs. #8 Minnesota (55)
#2 Vancouver (64) vs. #7 Los Angeles (58)
#3 San Jose (60) vs. #6 Chicago (64)
#4 St. Louis (65) vs. #5 Nashville (64)

ALSO IN THE HUNT...
Colorado (54), Dallas (52), Calgary (52), Phoenix (52)

EASTERN CONFERNCE

#1 N.Y. Rangers (66) vs. #8 Toronto (55)
#2 Boston (64) vs. #7 New Jersey (55)
#3 Washington (55) vs. #6 Ottawa (60)
#4 Philadelphia (63) vs. #5 Pittsburgh (60)

ALSO IN THE HUNT...
Florida (55), Winnipeg (50)