Contenders for playoff spots, mb
And they're Stars, Blues, Preds, Hawks and Wild, although honestly I see all of them except for the Wild being SC contenders as well.
You only named teams in the central division, but alright lol. Here are my thoughts on each of those teams, and the 5 teams that I think have a shot in the Western Conference
Stars - After a couple years of needing that extra oomph to propel them to that next level, they've finally got it. Klingberg has become into an all star defensemen, Oduya is helping stabilize the back end, Niemi and Lehtonen are working together to provide solid goaltending, and the deep talented forwards are just pounding pucks home. Will be interesting to watch as the season winds down and how they hold up. Also injuries.
Blues - Same as the past few years. They'll do well but choke in the playoffs
Preds - Not enough experience. 2nd round maybe, but they'll be eliminated. A couple years from now with a couple veteran players and they'll be a scary team for sure.
Hawks - Don't even really need to comment, obviously
Wild - I think they could contend. They have Dubnyk, who can certainly go on another run as he did last year. They have an all star player in Parise, once he is back. Suter is looking to be more of the defenseman he was a couple years ago when he competed (and possibly even won?) the Norris Trophy. They have some kinks to work out, but they have a shot at it.
I also think these teams have a shot:
Kings - After a long rest, I see them getting back into the playoffs and going on another tear. Carter is wreaking havoc on the ice, Lucic is.. ok. Once they get Kopitar and Doughty going they'll be in good shape.