The NHL has hit the quarter mark of the season, and five teams have pleasantly surprised and sit in a playoff spot.

Here is the full National Hockey League schedule for Nov. 21 and how to watch all the games. Or see our sortable NHL schedule ...

The Avalanche's reign atop the list continues, and the Blackhawks break into the top 10. Here's the full list.

There are (generally) real reasons for optimism for every team and, of course, real reasons for pessimism. Let's break them ...