Well there's some science to it insofar as patterns tend to stay in place for awhile (especially these past few years). In '13–'14 and "14–'15, it was the incredible -EPO, for example. In the past few years, it seems like a progressive pattern combined with a ridge somewhere between the 'SE-ridge zone' and the 'west-based NAO zone.' Roll-of-the-dice pattern to me. Last year, we had some pretty good luck (esp. in February when, IIRC, the ridge pulled up north some, which created some blockiness). This year, it's been pretty mehhhh.
As for this one, I think it's a watch-and-see-type deal, but I'd be more excited east of NYC.