South and West Fargo are a cut above the rest of the East. That said, Red River just took WF to five games and Shanley proved tougher than WF thought. Pretty sure these four teams will make it to state. I have been very impressed with South. I wouldn't be surprised if South won the East. It is not a certainty that South and WF will play for the championship.
Bismarck looked very good when I watched them. I don't see a clear favorite at the state tournament. Should be a lot of fun to watch. The West killed the East in the early season games but things evened out at the 2nd East/West tournament. It is conceivable that any of the eight teams that make it to state could win it. In my humble opinion.