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#81 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Canucks in JANUARY
![]() L 3-1 vs ANA - An aged Dany Heatley and bottom six center Corey Elkins both had a goal and assist in what was a lacklustre effort from Vancouver in their first game without #1 defenseman Dan Hamhuis. SOL 3-2 vs ARI - The Canucks were again outshot, but a 28 save effort from Greiss and goals from Justin Williams and Radim Vrbata salvaged a point. Martin Erat scored the only goal in the shootout to claim the extra point for Arizona. L 3-0 vs CAR - Carter Hutton had the 30 save shutout for the Hurricanes and Paul Martin scored two goals against the club that almost signed him this summer. Kevin Bieksa had a notably rough game and was -2 on the night. SOW 6-5 vs TBL - In a back and forth affair that saw Markstrom make 41 saves and Henrik pick up three assists it was Bo Horvat who played shootout hero. Vrbata also had a goal and two assists. Steven Stamkos had two goals in the losing cause, bringing him to 21 on the season and extending his goal streak to six games. SOL 3-2 vs FLA - Two goals for Daniel and two assists from Henrik were not enough to keep the game from OT, as Gudbranson scored in the third from Barkov and Huberdeau to tie it. When extra time solved nothing it went to a shootout where Rocco Grimaldi won it in the fourth round. W 2-1 @ WSH - Dan Hamhuis returns from suspension. Marc-Andre Gragnani, who struggled in his five game audition with only one assist and a minus five rating, will be places on waivers and reassigned to Utica. Vrbata and Higgins both scored for Vancouver and it was enough as Ovechkin was the only Washington player to get one past Greiss, who made 38 saves for the win. L 3-2 @ CAR - Justin Williams had a goal and an assist against his former team but a three goal second period for the Hurricanes, including two goals from Andrew Cogliano, carried the day as backup Drew MacIntyre made 24 saves for the win. Markstrom had 39 saves for Vancouver in the loss. SOW 4-3 @ NYI - Vancouver allowed fifty shots but Markstrom was solid, making 43 saves to keep them in it. Vrbata, Richardson and Henrik all beat Halak. In the shootout, Lupul and Vrbata both scored for Vancouver while only Josh Bailey got one past Markstrom so the Canucks walked away with two points. OTL 3-2 @ NYR - In a close game that saw Vancouver get goals from Archibald and Lupul and the Rangers answer with Brassard and Skinner scoring it was Anthony Duclair who won it for the Blueshirts from Derick Brassard just forty seconds into OT. W 3-2 @ BOS - In a game they were badly outplayed and outshot 45-20 the Canucks were bailed out time and again by backup goalie Thomas Greiss. After allowing two early goals to Torey Krug Greiss was perfect the rest of the game. Henrik had two assists in the third period as Daniel tied the game and Higgins netted the winner. OTL 3-2 @ PIT - Greiss gets the start against his former team but the team in front of him puts up a very weak effort with only 21 shots to Pittsburgh's 51. Evgeni Malkin had a goal and an assist and Crosby also scored. Clarke MacArthur scored the overtime winner on the powerplay after Letestu was called for tripping. L 3-2 vs NSH - Another sloppy game for the Canucks as they allow 39 shots on Markstrom, who made 36 saves in the losing cause. James Neal scored the winner near the end of the second, his seventeenth of the year. Record (January): 25-19-6 (4-4-4), 56 points, 2nd in Pacific Player Stats: Goals - Vrbata (17), Williams (13), Daniel, Bonino, Higgins (11) Assists - Henrik (31), Vrbata (19), Daniel (18), Bonino (17), Holden (14) Points - Henrik (39), Vrbata (36), Daniel (29), Bonino (28), Williams (23), Higgins (22), Letestu (16), Holden (15) Plus/Minus - Letestu (+8), Vrbata, Bonino (+7), Russell (+4), Michalek, Hamhuis (+3) PIM - Hamhuis (56), Kassian (35), Vrbata (24), Lupul (22), Henrik, Williams, Richardson (20) Shots - Vrbata (127), Daniel (116), Williams (106), Bonino (97), Henrik (92) Hits - Bonino (80), Richardson (79), Holden (77), Henrik (76), Hamhuis, Williams (66) Takeaways - Tanev (57), Russell (25), Bonino (23), Michalek (20), Hamhuis (19) Blocks - Tanev (157), Russell (137), Michalek (94), Holden (84), Hamhuis (71) FO% - Horvat (53.2), Bonino (50.8), Henrik (50.7), Richardson (49.3) Goalies: Markstrom - 20-11-3, 2.11 GAA, .936 SvPct, 21.86 GSAA, 3 SO Greiss - 5-8-3, 2.58 GAA, .925 SvPct, 4.11 GSAA Injuries: none Summary: Vancouver has struggled through a lot of close games this month, losing four times in overtime or shootout. They are close to sliding in the standings, with the Kings only a point back of them and the Oilers just two points behind. They were badly outshot three straight games to end the month. Thomas Greiss has continued to post solid numbers but not pick up a lot of victories. Markstrom's play has come down to earth a little bit and possibly the rigours of his first full season as a number one are wearing on him. The thin blueline was badly exposed when Dan Hamhuis missed five games due to suspension. He is without a contract extension so far but is a making a good case for one as he looks to be the only first pairing calibre defenseman on the left side. Yannick Weber has had a down year after showing well last season under Dale Hunter. Re-signed to run the powerplay and be an offensive option on the blueline, he hasn't even been consistently in the lineup after a string of healthy scratches and has only three goals and ten points in 34 games. Without him stepping up or some outside help the Vancouver D corps is sadly lacking any offensive punch. Defensive defenseman Nick Holden leads all blueliners with 15 points so far, 14 of those points are assists. Chris Tanev's 5 goals are the most of any defenseman on the team this year. Daniel Sedin continues to have a resurgent season as he has been paired with his brother all year. He could still hit twenty goals if he gets hot. And Henrik is on pace for at least fifty assists as they both trend upward in their age 35 season. The Joffrey Lupul experiment hasn't gone well, as he has only six goals after being signed mostly on the virtue of scoring 32 the previous season with Philadelphia. Reports are that coach Dan Bylsma's patience is wearing thin with the unproductive but one dimensional winger. Nick Bonino continues to solidify his reputation as a capable second line winger and was selected to the NHL All Star Game at the end of the month. Darren Archibald has been a pleasant surprise and has earned a regular shift on a checking third line with veterans Burrows and Richardson. Prospect Watch: RD Rasmus Andersson (OHL) 39gp, 11-24-35, +11, producing at almost a ppg pace as a defenseman, scoring eleven goals with his shot and also looking quicker with his first step and making better reads in his own end LD Vince Dunn (OHL) 39gp, 4-26-30, +4, has demonstrated consistent willingness to go the dirty areas and is playing more physical and putting some big hits on guys F Jared McCann (OHL) 37gp, 20-27-47, +2, dominating in every situation for his junior team, has spent some more time playing wing instead of center though, is making better defensive reads and showing better acceleration, improving at blocking the goalie's line of sight in front of the net on the powerplay LW Kirill Kaprizov (RUS) 32gp, 22-15-37, +5, has had opportunities in the faceoff circle and made the most of it, is doing well screening the goalie in front of the net and is carrying himself with a lot of professionalism and poise C Cole Cassels (AHL) 47gp, 13-26-39, -1, his shooting accuracy has gotten better and so have his defensive reads C Danton Heinen (AHL) 48gp, 9-12-21, +1, his production has slowed down a bit, but he is learning to contribute at all ends of the ice, improving his stick checking, showing a willingness to stick up for teammates, getting his shot off from farther out and going to the difficult areas of the ice with abandon RW Jake Virtanen (WHL) 36gp, 21-26-47, -4, playing lots of minutes without tiring, taking a bigger leadership role on his junior club, protecting and handling the puck better |
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#82 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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January Recap
![]() Nashville is positioning themselves as the class of the West after handing the reigns back to Pekka Rinne in goal. Rinne leads the NHL in wins with 29. The Preds are driven offensively by their blueline, with Roman Josi leading the way at almost a point per game (11-34-45) and captain Shea Weber already at 14 goals on the year. They are distancing themselves from defending champion Chicago, as the Blackhawks are currently sitting in a Wild Card spot in the ultra competitive Central, in spite of Patrick Kane's dominant season leading the league in goals and points by a wide margin. Anaheim is a surprise at the top of the Pacific, leading the league in goals per game. Besides Corey Perry (second in the NHL in goals with 28) and Ryan Getzlaf (10-34-44) they have a lot of depth up front between younger rising stars like Rakell, Palmieri and Silfverberg and savvy offseason acquisitions like Anisimov and Hartnell. Rookie blueliner Shea Theodore continues to impress with his offensive contributions and he only adds to an already impressive young core back there, joining Lindholm, Fowler and Vatanen (12-29-41) as one of the better U25 groups of NHL defensemen. Despite their injuries on the blueline the Rangers remain competitive in the Metropolitan, just one point back of Columbus and New Jersey and three back of Philadelphia. With Derick Brassard struggling young center J.T. Miller has stepped up his production (14-28-42) and taken on more responsibility down the middle. Philadelphia took a chance acquiring Sharks goalie Antti Niemi and it's paying off as their tandem of him and Steve Mason are leading the league in GAA. Their defensive prowess is all the more impressive when you see their blueline is populated mostly by defensemen with offensive reputations - Del Zotto, Gostisbehere, Gustafsson and Visnovsky. Defensive coach Kjell Samuelsson has done an excellent job having them all buy in and play solid team defense. Buffalo is an interesting team, with burgeoning star and first overall pick Connor McDavid getting his feet wet in the league and journeyman goalie Andrew Hammond impressing in his tandem role alongside Jhonas Enroth. Tyler Myers will be a big loss on their blueline as their playoff hopes are already fading fast. Boston is being led by Marchand, Pastrnak and Bergeron to the top seed in the East, with Torey Krug adding playmaking and offense from the back end. He leads the NHL in assists with 41 and is fifth in points with 53 - impressive for a defenseman. Team Stat Leaders: GF/gm - Anaheim (3.33), Boston (3.06), St. Louis (2.96), Nashville, Tampa Bay (2.94) GA/gm - Philadelphia (2.02), Columbus (2.14), Montreal (2.16), Nashville (2.18), NY Islanders (2.19) PP - Chicago (25.5%), Nashville (25.2%), Anaheim (24.5%), Dallas (21.6%), Tampa Bay (20.4%) PK - Philadelphia (90.1%), Detroit (89.6%), Nashville (87.7%), Tampa Bay (87.0%), Montreal (86.8%) Goalie Leaders (min 20gp): GAA - Price (MTL) 1.91, Niemi (PHI) 1.92, Hammond (BUF), Bobrovsky (CBJ) 1.94, Halak (NYI) 2.01 Sv Pct - Hammond (BUF), Bobrovsky (CBJ) .938, Markstrom (VAN) .936, Allen (ARI) .935, Niemi (PHI) .932 GSAA - Bobrovsky (CBJ) 27.95, Allen (ARI) 27.35, Markstrom (VAN) 21.86, Niemi (PHI) 15.33, Hammond (BUF) 14.27 SO - Bobrovsky (CBJ), Halak (NYI), Price (MTL) 8, Schneider (NJD), Varlamov (COL) 7 Rookie Leaders: Points - Schmaltz (CHI) 12-17-29, McDavid (BUF) 8-19-27, Duclair (NYR) 11-13-24, Theodore (ANA) 8-16-24, Hartman (PIT) 9-8-17 Other Stat Leaders: Takeaways - Weber (NSH) 45, Lindholm (ANA), Nielsen (NYI), Stone (OTT) 41, Korpikoski (ARI) 40 Hits - Bjugstad (FLA) 256, Tinordi (MTL) 242, L. Schenn (CGY) 227, Manning (PHI) 218, Melindy (ARI) 212 Blocked Shots - Vlasic (SJS) 174, Girardi (NYR), Tanev (VAN) 157, Brodie (CGY) 152, Daley (TOR), Martinez (LAK) 151 PIM - L. Schenn (CGY) 167, Tinordi (MTL) 147, Manning (PHI) 125, Bjugstad (FLA) 102, Borowiecki (SJS) 99 FO% - Engqvist (NJD) 59.9, Vermette (PHI) 59.1, Gordon (PHI) 58.9, Toews (CHI) 58.3, Glendening (DET) 57.7 +/- - Pastrnak (BOS) 32, Backstrom (WSH) 30, Bergeron (BOS), Marchand (BOS) 28, Ovechkin (WSH) 26 Injuries: F Mikhail Grigorenko (BUF) OUT 2-3 months (leg) D Andrej Meszaros (BUF) OUT indefinitely (arm) D Tyler Myers (BUF) OUT indefinitely (head) D Marek Zidlicky (CGY) OUT 1-2 months (pelvis) F Johnny Gaurdreau (CGY) OUT 1-2 months (eye) F Lance Bouma (CGY) OUT 1-2 months D Dustin Byfuglien (CHI) DTD (back) D Brent Seabrook (CHI) DTD (eye) F Blake Wheeler (DAL) OUT indefinitely (arm) F Mikko Rantanen (DAL) OUT indefinitely (concussion) F Riley Sheahan (DET) OUT 2-3 weeks (groin) D Andy Greene (DET) OUT 2-3 weeks (hip) D Darnell Nurse (EDM) OUT 2-3 months (abdomen) D Philip Larsen (EDM) OUT indefinitely (throat) F Marcus Kruger (LAK) OUT 2-3 months (elbow) F Eric Tangradi (NSH) OUT 3-4 months (knee) F Vladimir Sobotka (NJD) OUT 1-2 months D Ryan McDonagh (NYR) OUT indefinitely (concussion) D Marc Staal (NYR) OUT 1-2 months (abdomen) F Jeff Carter (SJS) OUT 1-2 months (shoulder) F Richard Panik (TOR) OUT 2-3 months (neck) |
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#83 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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NHL Ticker
Jan 3rd, 2016 - Chicago's Dustin Byfuglien had a dominant third period in their come from behind win against Ottawa. Down 5-3 going into the third, Byfuglien drew the Blackhawks to within one on the powerplay. He then scored again midway through the frame to even it up. He completed the natural hat trick with four minutes to go when he scored the game winner. He finished with 3 goals and an assist on the night. Jan 6th, 2016 - Boston re-signs 27 year old star winger and current NHL scoring leader Brad Marchand for two more years at an absolute bargain of $5.23M per year. Jan 10th, 2016 - Philadelphia defenseman Erik Gustafsson was suspended for three games for an incident in last night's game against the Islanders. Jan 11th, 2016 - Detroit center Pavel Datsyuk signs a one year extension for $2.98M. Datsyuk has 34 points through 43 games. Jan 14th, 2016 - Colorado claims D Marc-Andre Gragnani off waivers from the Canucks. Gragnani has an assist in five NHL games this year. Jan 14th, 2016 - The struggling Sharks have made a move to shore up their blueline, acquiring Jason Garrison from the Lightning. TBL acquires RW David Clarkson (41gp, 10-6-16, 57pim, -1) and D Dakota Mermis (22yo, AHL 40gp, 5-16-21, +1); SJS acquires LD Jason Garrison (19gp, 2-3-5, 6pim, +5). San Jose's acquisition of Borowiecki earlier this year made Clarkson's grit expendable, so they move him and a middling defensive prospect to pick up a veteran and capable NHL defenseman in Garrison. Garrison has a heavy shot and a lot of NHL experience. Clarkson did have ten goals this year and was on pace for twenty. Los Angeles wins the trade. Jan 28th, 2016 - Buffalo defenseman Tyler Myers was involved in a car crash and sustained serious injuries. He will be out indefinitely as he recovers. Jan 28th, 2016 - Western Conference wins All Star Skills competition. Jan 29th, 2016 - Eastern Conference wins All Star Game. Jan 31st, 2016 - Chicago's Patrick Kane won player of the month. The league's leading scorer was dominant all month long as he has been all year. Andrew Hammond of the Sabres won goalie of the month. Hammond has five shutouts on the season and a save percentage of .938. |
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#84 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Division Rivals make trade weeks prior to deadline
![]() Feb 18th, 2016 - Vancouver general manager Trevor Linden made a trade, sending defenseman Yannick Weber and a disgruntled Zack Kassian to the Oilers in exchange for an underwhelming return. The Trade - VAN acquires D Brad Hunt (AHL 54gp, 5-24-29, -1), prospect F Dominik Kahun (20yo, AHL 54gp, 13-14-27, +7), EDM 2016 3rd; EDM acquires D Yannick Weber (38gp, 3-9-12, -5), RW Zack Kassian (25yo, 31gp, 5-5-10, E), VAN 2018 5th, VAN 2018 6th. Analysis - Kassian was less physical and less productive than last season, and this is his contract year. He played himself out of favour with Dan Bylsma and the Canucks coaches and found himself in the press box, being replaced by AHLers like Darren Archibald and Nicklas Jensen. Weber was re-signed for three seasons after a great year in which he displayed offensive acumen and two way responsibility but he also seemed to take a step back under Bylsma and Vancouver seemed eager to move on from him. In exchange for the two NHL calibre roster players (and two late round future picks) the Oilers sent Vancouver a prospect with some offensive skill and versatility who could be a bottom six NHLer if developed well in Dominick Kahun. They also move minor league offensive defenseman Brad Hunt, a native of the Vancouver area, who Trevor Linden is hopeful can find his way to the NHL club and spark some offense from the back end that has been sorely lacking this year. Vancouver also acquires a third round selection in this year's draft as they continue to restock their prospect cupboard and reload their draft capital after years of contending. Edmonton wins this trade though. Trevor Linden commented that, "Zack was no longer in our future plans and Yannick had really stalled in his development as well and we wanted to look elsewhere within the organization to replace them and this trade gives us the opportunity to add draft capital and a couple assets we value going forward. We appreciate all the Zack and Yannick contributed to the Vancouver organization and wish them well. But not when we're playing the Oilers." |
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#85 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Canucks in FEBRUARY
![]() W 2-0 vs CBJ - A defensive matchup saw Jacob Markstrom shine for the 23 save shutout. Darren Archibald set the tone early in a fight with Andrew Desjardins. Two second period goals lifted Vancouver over Columbus, with Higgins and Williams both beating Bobrovsky. SOW 4-3 vs CGY - Yannick Weber and Henrik Sedin both had two assists and Williams scored for the second straight game to get the Canucks to a shootout where Higgins and Horvat both scored while Markstrom was perfect to seal it. Joffrey Lupul sustained a knee injury and will miss at least a couple weeks. OTW 3-2 @ COL - Kassian replaces Lupul on the top line. This may be one of his last opportunities to prove himself as a Canucks as the coaching staff seem to have soured on him this year. Gragnani, who was picked up off waivers from Vancouver earlier in the season, opened the scoring against his former team but Chris Tanev answered. Stefan Elliott gave the Avs the lead again in the third but Letestu scored to even it up and send us to overtime, where only twelve seconds in it was Letestu with his second of the game, from Horvat and Holden, for the overtime winner. L 1-0 @ ARI - Toby Rieder scored the only goal in a snooze fest. Yannick Weber did not look good on the goal or all night really. Dan Bylsma looked frustrated in the post game presser and promised changes for the next game. L 4-3 vs TOR - Bylsma shuffled his lineup, calling up Dustin Jeffrey and Nicklas Jensen and plugging them in for Burrows and Kassian, while also putting Kevin Bieksa in for Yannick Weber. Vrbata was moved back to the top line with the Sedins. Third liner Brad Richardson had a good night but the Canucks were outclassed by a Toronto team that had scoring from Phil Kessel, Nazem Kadri, Tyler Bozak and Leo Komarov. W 3-1 vs MIN - Daniel opened the scoring on a powerplay, assisted by who else but Henrik, and Nick Holden and Nick Bonino added goals to bring Vancouver to victory. Only Jason Pominville managed to beat Markstrom, who was solid, making 28 saves on the night. OTL 4-3 vs ANA - Following a trade that moved out Kassian and Weber and brought in Brad Hunt, the Canucks played a competitive game but lost in the end. Daniel had a goal and an assist but Rakell scored the OT winner for the Ducks and Sami Vatanen had three assists on the night. W 2-0 @ CGY - Markstrom's thirty save shutout earned him first star honours and Henrik had a goal and an assist. Brad Hunt had a promising night on the powerplay, and he attempted eight shots, seven of which were on net, albeit without results. L 5-3 vs COL - An uncharacteristically poor showing from Jacob Markstrom saw him allow five goals on just 25 shots while in the opposing crease Semyon Varlamov staved off 44 Vancouver shots allowing only three for the win. Henrik Sedin had a pair of assists to bring him to 40 on the year, but Colorado converted too many of their chances with goals from Duchene, Iginla, Tanguay, O'Reilly and Blunden to go home with the victory. L 3-0 vs OTT - Craig Anderson gets the 32 save shutout as Ottawa continues their run of good play climbing the standings in the Atlantic. Mark Stone, who is having a tremendous season at both ends of the ice, netted his 24th of the season. Vancouver's second line of Bonino, Higgins and Williams was on for all three goals against. L 4-1 vs SJS - After struggling early in the season the Sharks are hitting their stride and after this game are only three points back of the Canucks. The lone Vancouver goal was Henrik from Daniel on the powerplay. Thomas Greiss was in net and made 29 saves but was outduelled by fellow backup Michal Neuvirth who made 20 saves on 21 shots for the victory. Record (February): 30-24-7 (5-5-1), 67 points, 2nd in Pacific Player Stats: Goals - Vrbata (19), Williams (16), Daniel (15), Bonino (13), Higgins (12) Assists - Henrik (40), Vrbata, Daniel (21), Bonino (20), Higgins (18) Points - Henrik (50), Vrbata (40), Daniel (36), Bonino (33), Higgins (30) Plus/Minus - Letestu (+13), Hamhuis (+5), Bonino (+4), Tanev, Bieksa (+2) PIM - Hamhuis (64), Vrbata, Richardson (26), Bonino (25), Holden, Higgins, Williams (24) Shots - Vrbata (170), Daniel (142), Williams (126), Bonino (122), Henrik (108) Hits - Bonino (108), Richardson (99), Holden (92), Henrik (87), Hamhuis (84) Takeaways - Tanev (38), Bonino (32), Hamhuis, Russell (27), Holden, Henrik, Michalek (21) Blocks - Tanev (192), Russell (157), Michalek (110), Holden (101), Hamhuis (86) FO% - Horvat (53.2), Henrik (51.5), Bonino (50.5), Higgins (50.0), Richardson (49.9) Goalies: Markstrom - 24-15-3, 2.11 GAA, .934 SvPct, 22.32 GSAA, 5 SO Greiss - 6-9-4, 2.64, .922 SvPct, 2.90 GSAA, 1 SO Injuries: none Summary: A mediocre month for the Canucks maintained their second place position in a mediocre division. Henrik and Daniel returning somewhat to form has been a good story so far, but Vancouver needs more scoring depth, especially on the blueline. It is hoped that Brad Hunt will help with that, but so far it has been a futile search to find an effective and consistent offensive defenseman. Justin Williams continues to have a great bounce back season, proving to be one of Linden's best acquisitions so far. Archibald has looked decent in a bottom six role since being brought up. He has been a physical presence, leading all Canucks in hits per game, averaging almost two per game despite limited minutes. The versatile and skilled Mark Letestu leads the team in plus minus and in relative Corsi (+7.67), seeming to thrive wherever Bylsma plugs him in. Questions abound moving forward as to whether this team is going to do anything in the post season this year, they seem to be fading out early. Maybe they can turn it around for a stretch run and inspire some hope in the fan base though. Prospect Watch: RW Conor Garland (QMJHL) 48gp, 17-32-49, +12, is growing in strength and leadership D Gustav Forsling (SWE) 39gp, 5-25-30, -4, is getting smoother in his puckhandling and is doing better at getting in shooting lanes on defense C Ross Colton (NCAA) 31gp, 15-16-31, +1, has shown a lot of improvement in the dot and in his playmaking, also working together well with his teammates and sticking up for them as well D Will Butcher (AHL) 59gp, 4-31-35, +6, is showing better speed through the neutral zone and crisper passing, making better reads defensively D Vince Dunn (OHL) 48gp, 5-33-38, +2, in spite of his low goal totals, his shot is getting markedly better and more accurate |
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#86 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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February Recap
![]() The Ducks are clipping along, leading the league in goals per game, second in powerplay efficiency and first in the Pacific with 82 points so far. The Sharks are rising fast and in a tight competition with Edmonton for the third playoff spot in the weak Pacific division. They are on a five game winning streak where neither goalie has allowed more than two goals. Recent acquisition Alex Killorn has 14 points in 11 games. The Flames have been murdered by injuries, missing three defensemen and three forwards for much of the month, though Lance Bouma and recently Ladislav Smid have been cleared for contact and Bouma should be back in the lineup by next game. Nashville and St. Louis are in a close contest for control of the Central Division, with only one point separating them. Both teams boast incredible bluelines, with St. Louis' top four of Ekman-Larsson, Cole, Pietrangelo and Shattenkirk looking great, while their bottom pair consisting of an aging Jay Bouwmeester and fringe NHLer Chris Butler has been getting torched. The Predators have Ekholm, Ellis and Seth Jones all worthy of second pairing minutes, then they have an absolutely dominant first pair of Roman Josi and Shea Weber, leading their powerplay to the top of the league and their team to the top of the Central (for now at least). Boston looks like the team to beat out east, boasting the league's leading scorer in Marchand, the second best goals for per game AND the second best goals against per game and rolling with Torey Krug as the NHL's leading scorer from the blueline. In spite of this, Montreal continues to put forward a spirited effort to push them, sitting at second in the NHL with 83 points and riding on Carey Price's incredible goaltending. Feisty twenty three year old winger Brendan Gallagher is also coming into his own this year, currently sitting at eighth in the league in points while maintaining a solid plus twenty rating. The Metro is a logjam of a division, with four teams within five points of each other. Philadelphia is currently leading the division and benefitting from a good call in the offseason to acquire Antti Niemi and roll with him in net. In fact, all four teams are in the place they are due to excellent goaltending, the Devils from Schneider, the Capitals from Holtby and the Islanders from Halak. The Rangers also aren't going away this year, still in striking distance of their rivals the New York Islanders. In spite of being hit hard by Ryan McDonagh's long term injury, they have seen great contributions from younger players like rookie Anthony Duclair (16-18-34), offseason acquisition Jeff Skinner (18-22-40) and twenty two year old J.T. Miller (20-40-60). Team Stat Leaders: GF/gm - Anaheim (3.35), Boston (3.13), Tampa Bay (3.02), St. Louis (2.94), Nashville (2.90) GA/gm - NY Islanders (2.05), Boston (2.11), Montreal (2.14), Philadelphia (2.16), Detroit (2.19) PP - Nashville (24.6%), Anaheim (23.4%), Boston (23.1%), Chicago (22.8%), Dallas (22.8%) PK - Philadelphia (88.6%), Montreal (88.4%), Nashville (88.2%), Detroit (87.4%), Tampa Bay (87.3%) Goalie Leaders (min 20gp): GAA - Halak (NYI) 1.90, Price (MTL) 1.93, Niemi (PHI) 2.03, Howard (DET) 2.09, Bobrovsky (CBJ), Markstrom (VAN) 2.11 Sv Pct - Allen (ARI) .937, Markstrom (VAN) .934, Bobrovsky (CBJ) .933, Halak (NYI), Anderson (CHI) .930 GSAA - Allen (ARI) 40.25, Bobrovsky (CBJ) 27.25, Markstrom (VAN) 22.32, Halak (NYI) 18.26, Scrivens (EDM) 16.69 SO - Halak (NYI) 11, Bobrovsky (CBJ), Price (MTL), Schneider (NJD) 9, Varlamov (COL) 9 Rookie Leaders: Points - McDavid (BUF) 13-26-39, Duclair (NYR) 16-18-34, Schmaltz (CHI) 13-21-34, Theodore (ANA) 9-21-30, Hartman (PIT) 11-11-22 Other Stat Leaders: Takeaways - Weber (NSH) 53, Girardi (NYR), H. Lindholm (ANA), Stone (OTT) 50, Nielsen (NYI) 48 Hits - Bjugstad (FLA) 321, L. Schenn (CGY) 305, Tinordi (MTL) 295, Melindy (ARI) 291, Manning (PHI) 288 Blocked Shots - Vlasic (SJS) 204, Martinez (LAK) 202, Daley (CHI) 199, Alzner (WSH) 197, Brodie (CGY), Tanev (VAN) 192 PIM - L. Schenn (CGY) 222, Tinordi (MTL) 194, Manning (PHI) 155, Borowiecki (SJS) 123, Bjustad (FLA), Melindy (ARI) 120 FO% - Vermette (PHI) 59.1, Engqvist (NJD) 58.3, Glendening (DET), Toews (CHI) 57.6, Gordon (PHI) 57.1 +/- - Pastrnak (BOS) 47, Marchand (BOS) 43, Bergeron (BOS) 41, Krug (BOS) 32, Backstrom (WSH) 31 Injuries: D Josh Manson (ARI) OUT 1-2 months (finger) D Chris Summers (ARI) OUT 3-4 months (concussion) F Mikhail Grigorenko (BUF) OUT 1-2 months (leg) D Tyler Myers (BUF) OUT indefinitely (skull) D Andrej Meszaros (BUF) OUT 3-4 months (arm) F Stephen Gionta (CAR) OUT 2-3 weeks (knee) F Johnny Gaudreau (CGY) OUT 1-2 weeks (eye) D Mark Giordano (CGY) OUT 2-3 weeks (hand) D Marek Zidlicky (CGY) OUT 1-2 months (pelvis) F Shawn Matthias (CGY) OUT 2-3 weeks (shoulder) D Ladislav Smid (CGY) DTD (shin) F Blake Wheeler (DAL) OUT indefinitely (elbow) F Mikko Rantanen (DAL) OUT indefinitely (concussion) F Riley Sheahan (DET) OUT 1-2 weeks (groin) D Darnell Nurse (EDM) OUT 1-2 months (abdomen) D Philip Larsen (EDM) OUT 3-4 months (throat) F Marcus Kruger (LAK) OUT 1-2 months (elbow) D Ryan Suter (MIN) OUT 1-2 months (wrist) D Travis Hamonic (NYI) OUT 1-2 weeks (knee) D Ryan McDonagh (NYR) OUT indefinitely (concussion) F Dominic Moore (NYR) OUT 1-2 weeks (upper body) D Marc Staal (NYR) OUT 1-2 weeks (abdomen) F Zach Sill (NYR) OUT 1-2 weeks (shoulder) F Evgeni Malkin (PIT) OUT 2-3 weeks (leg) F Beau Bennett (PIT) OUT 1-2 months (jaw) D Roman Polak (PIT) OUT 2-3 months (abdomen) F Jeff Carter (SJS) OUT 1-2 weeks (shoulder) F Leo Komarov (TOR) OUT 1-2 weeks (hip) F Richard Panik (TOR) OUT 1-2 months (neck) |
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#87 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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![]() NHL Ticker February Feb 4th, 2016 - Washington fires head coach Barry Trotz and replaces him with Alain Vigneault. Vigneault didn't have to wait too long for another crack at an NHL job after the Rangers fired him earlier this season. Feb 4th, 2016 - Nashville extends starting goalie Pekka Rinne for two more years at a bargain price of $1.5M per year. The deal comes with a NMC. Rinne stated, "This is the team that drafted me and I want to play out my career with them and take them to the Cup. At this stage in my life the money doesn't matter. I want to win and I want to win with the guys here in Nashville." Feb 6th, 2016 - The Sharks have made another trade, this time trying to salvage a season in which many expected them to be contenders. TBL acquires G Karri Ramo (35% ret.), SJS 2016 5th, SJS 2017 3rd; SJS acquires LW Alex Killorn (7-12-19). Analysis - The Sharks are a ways out of a playoff spot and this move looks like desperation, trading off futures to try to immediately improve the lineup, and although Killorn is a solid middle sixer who should contribute at about a forty point pace he doesn't move the needle much especially if he doesn't choose to re-sign with San Jose this offseason. Tampa Bay does well to add a third in next year's draft and picks up Ramo for their minor league team. If the Sharks were in contention this would be a savvy move to pick up a solid playoff contributor without giving up high end assets, but with where they are currently it doesn't add up. Tampa Bay wins this trade. Feb 10th, 2016 - Tampa Bay extended star defenseman Victor Hedman for three years at $5.79M per year. The 25 year old opted for a bridge deal, hoping to strike it rich as a free agent in three years. Hedman has seven goals and 31 points so far this season while leading all Lightning defensemen in icetime. Feb 18th, 2016 - The Blackhawks are loading up yet again leading up the deadline. CHI acquires LW Carl Hagelin (10-14-24); NYR acquires SJS 2016 2nd. The Blackhawks add some speed and middle six depth in hopes of another deep playoff run while the Rangers add a higher end draft selection. New York wins this trade. Feb 19th, 2016 - Nashville extends captain Shea Weber for seven more years. The deal will carry a cap hit of $7.35M. Weber has 14 goals and 40 total points so far this year while leading his team to the top of the Central Division standings. Feb 20th, 2016 - Alex Ovechkin hit 500 career goals in his game against the Devils. The Capitals superstar has 33 goals and 54 points on the season so far. Feb 20th, 2016 - Dallas Stars defenseman John Klingberg was ejected in the first period of their game against Boston for an illegal hit to the head. He has been suspended by the NHL's DOPS for six games. Feb 21st, 2016 - Washington has signed Alex Ovechkin to a 4 year deal worth $6.71M per year. "Ovi" just hit the 500 goal mark in his career and is committed to winning a cup with the team that drafted him and he now captains. Feb 23rd, 2016 - Braden Holtby signed a 7 year extension with the Capitals, reportedly with an AAV of $7.6M. The 26 year old netminder has spent his entire career with Washington, earning 122 wins and 22 shutouts so far. Feb 24th, 2016 - Minnesota has traded defenseman Jonathon Blum to the Senators. OTT acquires RD Jonathon Blum (50% ret.) (27yo, 8-14-22, -3, 20:44 ATOI); MIN acquires RW Tom Pyatt (29yo, 5-2-7, +5), OTT 2017 2nd. Analysis - Blum appeared to be building on last year's 31 point season and was playing a top four role in Minnesota as an affordable defenseman on a three year contract in his prime. It's a bit of a head scratcher to see them move on from him this easily, picking up bottom six energy forward Tom Pyatt and a valuable second round pick next year. Perhaps the Wild really see a lot in 21 year old Matt Dumba and want to give him a bigger role sooner rather than later. This trade is a win for Ottawa, who, although they give up a decent draft pick, manage to acquire a top four capable right side defenseman with a very inexpensive cap hit. Feb 29th, 2016 - Brad Marchand of the Bruins is the player of the month. Twenty two year old rising star John Gibson of the Ducks is the goalie of the month. |
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#88 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Trade Deadline 2016
![]() Preview: The Buyers - Chicago Blackhawks - It's a bit of a down year for the defending champs, as salary cap mismanagement and some injuries have slowed them down in an incredibly competitive Central Division. However, their mandate is still to Win Urgently, and they have serious depth issues, especially in net and on the blueline. They also are weak down the middle, with not much after Toews and rookie Nick Schmaltz. Their top four of Keith, Hjalmarsson, Byfuglien and Seabrook is formidable, but expect them to try to add some NHL depth for the bottom pairing as well. Nashville Predators - GM David Poile is in Win Now mode, with his squad leading the Central and the Blackhawks limping. Rinne has been an absolute workhorse for them, and it could be prudent to bring in an NHL level backup to spell him off and keep him fresh for the post-season. Their defense corps is perhaps the best in the league, with five top four defensemen in Weber, Josi, Ellis, Jones and Ekholm. They lack offensive punch down the middle after Mike Ribeiro and might look to add a scoring 2C if one is available for the right price. Washington Capitals - This is a team in a playoff spot that wants to win now. They believe in their core, locking in Ovi and Holtby to long term deals lately. They have a solid blueline, with Carlson and Green providing offense on the right side while Alzner, Niskanen and Orpik hold down the fort on the left side. They have great goaltending between Holtby and rising young talent Philipp Grubauer. And they have a surging Ovechkin who is still in the conversation for the Richard after a slow start. While they have a good 1-2 punch at center with Backstrom and Kuznetsov, they again find themselves lacking any sort of scoring depth on the wings after Ovechkin. Expect them to be aggressive adding a top six winger to push deeper into the playoffs this year. The Sellers - Toronto Maple Leafs - Dave Nonis seems to have embraced the idea of a total rebuild as his club sits outside of the playoff picture yet again. With young star Jack Eichel to build around, it sounds like not much else besides rising star Morgan Reilly is nailed down. Captain Dion Phaneuf has a no trade clause, but if he is willing to waive it and a team is able to take on his five year, $7M AAV contract he is on the table. Phil Kessel is also rumoured to be available, but rival GMs claim the asking price is too high. If Nonis lowers some of his asks at the deadline there could be a real fire sale, but the ball is in his court as not many of his better assets are on expiring deals besides maybe Bozak or Komarov. Carolina Hurricanes - In the basement of the Metro, the Canes do have a bright future, one that Ron Francis hopes to be around to see. They have an impressive stable of young stars, from Sebastian Aho, Elias Lindholm and Mitch Marner up front to Brett Pesce and Jaccob Slavin on the blueline, and the goaltending they've had from Carter Hutton has been good, but as a team they have no identity and little success this year. Veteran bleuliners like Ron Hainsey, Paul Martin and John-Michael Liles could all be available, as well as gritty winger Justin Abdelkader. Team captain Eric Staal is on the record as being committed to the team through the rebuild, and it is expected that the situation is the same with his brother Jordan. They don't have the premium pieces some other sellers do but they should be active on deadline day all the same. Arizona Coyotes - The 'Yotes are in the basement and probably open to moving veteran roster players. The catch is that most of the roster is already on the younger side. A 39 year old Shane Doan doesn't move the needle much anymore, even if he was willing to waive to leave the desert. They may however have teams interested in Brian Boyle and Martin Hanzal, experienced centres with big frames who can take the beating of the NHL playoffs and wear down opposing bluelines. Their oldest defenseman is Michael Stone at 25 years old. If they don't see him as a core piece down the road they could certainly find buyers for the steady, defense first blueliner who has also put up 20 points so far this year. Veteran wingers like Korpikoski and Erat will also be available, though it remains to be seen how much of a market there will be for them. Lots of teams are asking about Boedker but for now Malone seems content to hold onto the speedy winger who leads his team in scoring with 33 points. |
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#89 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Trade Deadline 2016
![]() Live Blog: The day opens with a splash as an absolute blockbuster goes down between Toronton and Washington. WSH acquires RW Phil Kessel (59gp, 23-19-42, -9), LW Sean Bergenheim (56gp, 3-5-8, -7), RD Adam Clendening (30gp, 4-6-10, -2); TOR acquires RW Andre Burakovsky (21yo, 43gp, 7-4-11, +2), prospect G Vitek Vanecek (20yo, AHL 32gp, 2.25gaa, .926sv%), prospect D Neal Pionk (20yo, AHL 57gp, 4-18-22, +3), 2016 WSH 1st, 2017 WSH 1st, 2016 WSH 3rd. Instant Analysis: Washington jumps on the biggest fish of the deadline early, going all in by sending their next two first rounders and their top two prospects (Vanecek and Burakovsky, who is currently playing his rookie season in the NHL), along with defensive prospect Pionk and a third rounder this year to Toronto for Phil Kessel and a couple depth NHLers in Bergenheim and Clendening to make the contracts work. Toronto was reportedly looking for a bigger talent than Burakovsky, but a similar aged player, to go along with two first rounders but they simply weren't getting any offers close to that. Vanecek was a key piece to them with their relatively unimpressive future between the pipes. In spite of giving up multiple premium assets Washington wins the trade by virtue of acquiring the best player in the deal, Phil Kessel, to give Ovi an elite winger to play with. A relatively minor deal to report, as Chicago shores up their center depth with Riley Nash from Carolina. CHI acquires C Riley Nash (63gp, 6-11-17, +5); CAR acquires prospect C Vince Hinostroza (21yo, 9gp, 0-1-1, AHL 47gp, 9-23-32), 2017 BOS 3rd. Instant Analysis: Nash is considered by many insiders to be underrated around the league. He has shouldered a lot of defensive responsibility on a dumpster fire of a Hurricanes team while still remaining a plus five. Chicago has had a hole at third line center after moving on from Selke winner Marcus Kruger in the offseason and this move should fill that hole nicely as they gear up for another run. The 'Canes add a young center with NHL potential and a future third rounder. Chicago wins this deal by a nose, but it's a good move for both front offices. In a relatively quiet market with not a lot of aggressive buyers the Kings have stepped up to get towering veteran center Brian Boyle from Arizona. LAK acquires C Brian Boyle (60gp, 6-13-19, -12); ARI acquires 2018 LAK 2nd, 2016 LAK 6th. Instant Analysis: Los Angeles has been short on depth down the middle ever since offseason acquisition Selke winning Marcus Kruger went down with a serious arm injury. This adds size for the playoffs and strengthens their center depth. Arizona is not in a position where Boyle fits their competitive window, and procuring a second rounder, even two drafts down the road, is great asset management. This deal is a win for Arizona. In a surprising move the Penguins, ten points out of a playoff spot, act like buyers in a trade with Carolina. PIT acquires LD Paul Martin (57gp, 3-9-12, -4), RD John-Michael Liles (38gp, 5-4-9, -17) and RW Justin Abdelkader (61gp, 11-15-26, +10); CAR acquires prospect G Karel Vejmelka (19yo, AHL 25gp, 2.31gaa, .928sv%), prospect C Teddy Blueger (21yo, AHL 58gp, 12-12-24, -4), D Christian Ehrhoff (22gp, 0-0-0, -7) and 2017 PIT 2nd. Instant Analysis: A strange move for Pittsburgh, who is clearly desperate to validate their big offseason moves and claw their way into the playoffs to make some noise. Abdelkader should add something to their lineup up front, and they are comfortable with Martin as well since he had a great run with them last post-season. However, Blueger has a chance to be a defensively responsibly middle six NHL center and Vejmelka could at least develop into a backup goalie, to say nothing of the potential of next year's second rounder. A lot of futures to give up in a desperate attempt to make the playoffs. Carolina wins this deal. Los Angeles continues to be busy as they make another trade, again with the Coyotes. LAK acquires RD Michael Stone (49gp, 6-14-20, -24); ARI acquires prospect C Dylan Gambrell (19yo, AHL 57gp, 11-29-40, +4) and 2016 LAK 2nd. Instant Analysis: Stone should fit in as a top four defenseman on a thin Kings blueline, and his relative youth makes him an investment longer term than your usual rental. He's a defense first blueliner, though his plus minus on a brutal Arizona squad may not look the part. Gambrell is lighting up the AHL as a rookie but most project his ceiling to be limited to a depth or fourth line role in the NHL. Arizona does well to add another quality pick here, but Los Angeles wins the trade. A couple of original six clubs hook up as the deadline looms, with Toronto and Chicago very natural partners. CHI acquires RD Trevor Daley (60gp, 8-14-22, +5); TOR acquires 2017 CHI 2nd, 2016 CHI 5th. Instant Analysis: Chicago is desperate for defensive depth if they want to make a deep run and the veteran Daley gives them just that as they pay a premium in draft capital. Daley addresses their weakest area of need and rounds out the deadline for them. Chicago wins this trade. Vancouver makes a minor deal near the end of the deadline, moving out underperforming winger Joffrey Lupul for a late draft pick. DET acquires RW Joffrey Lupul (53gp, 6-3-9); VAN acquires 2016 DET 6th. Instant Analysis: Pretty simple here, Vancouver signed Lupul for two years coming off his 32 goal season and he hasn't really lived up to the billing so they move on without spending any assets to get rid of him, while Detroit adds some veteran scoring depth and hopes a change of scenery may restore last season's form. Detroit wins this trade. The Canucks close out their deadline with another minor deal, moving out disappointing prospect Nicklas Jensen, who never really made enough of an impression with the big club. CBJ acquires prospect RW Nicklas Jensen (22yo, AHL 53gp, 18-23-41, +6), 2016 DET 6th; VAN acquires prospect RW Josh Anderson (21yo, AHL 58gp, 9-23-32, 119pim, -3). Instant Analysis: The Blue Jackets probably see Jensen as a young guy who can contribute sooner rather than later and brings some more offensive pop if he can stick in the NHL. Vancouver gives up a late round pick in this prospect exchange, but they get a younger (albeit less productive) prospect who is stylistically similar to the recently traded Zack Kassian. Columbus wins this trade. Arizona was also busy up to the wire, slipping in two last minute moves. ARI acquires LW Brett Connolly (32gp, 3-6-9, -8); TBL acquires prospect C Dylan Gambrell (19yo, AHL 57gp, 11-29-40, +4). Instant Analysis: Connolly's development was stalled in Tampa so the Coyotes take a flyer on him while moving out a young playmaking center (just acquired today for Michael Stone) who could have potential as well. If Connolly can turn his fortunes around in the desert this could be a solid move for them as his ceiling is definitely higher than Gambrell's. MIN acquires C Justin Hodgman (AHL 58gp, 24-24-48, +2); ARI acquires RD Christian Folin (AHL 56gp, 6-18-24, 118pim, +11). |
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#90 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Canucks in MARCH/APRIL
![]() L 5-2 vs NYI - Brock Nelson and Ryan Strome both had a goal and an assist and John Tavares scored his 27th of the year in a dominant win over Vancouver and Jacob Markstrom. Vancouver had goals from Vrbata and Tanev. L 4-2 vs SJS - Markstrom went up against his former teammate and mentor as Ryan Miller came out on top, albeit with a much lighter workload, saving 15 of 17 shots. Markstrom saved 36 of 40 shots and Brad Hunt scored his first as a Canuck, but a three point night from Tomas Hertl led the Sharks to a victory in a key divisional matchup. These teams meet up again for their next game in San Jose. L 4-1 @ SJS - Vancouver's leadership group is having to ask some hard questions after a poor showing in a key matchup saw them lose to San Jose again and fall behind them in the standings. A powerplay goal by Daniel was the only one of 23 shots to get by Sharks backup Michael Neuvirth, while Markstrom allowed four goals on 35 shots. Alex Killorn continued his hot streak since being acquired by the Sharks, contributing a goal and an assist in the win. W 4-2 @ LAK - Justin Williams had a goal and an assist against his former team while Thomas Greiss held the fort, making 26 saves. Kris Russell went off for a goal and an assist on a new look pairing with Brad Hunt. SOW 3-2 vs ARI - The Canucks had goals from Vrbata and Higgins, but Brett Connolly (now on a four game goal streak) evened it up in the third on the powerplay to send it to a fruitless overtime. In the shootout Zbynek Michalek was a surprise first shooter for Vancouver and he scored while Boedker was stopped by Markstrom. Vrbata scored as well then Max Domi was also stopped by Markstrom to clinch the victory. W 4-1 vs NSH - The Canucks were shelled to the tune of 45 shots against in this game but Jacob Markstrom was equal to the task, allowing only one goal. After Forsberg opened the scoring Justin Williams answered with two straight goals (including his 600th career point) and Vrbata and Linden Vey added insurance markers. L 3-2 vs WPG - Evander Kane was impactful, from a first period fight with Nick Bonino to setting up the first two Winnipeg goals. Goals from Daniel and Vrbata tied it up in the third but Kyle Okposo scored the winner with six minutes to play. SOW 6-5 vs COL - it was a barn burner in Vancouver, seeing the Canucks get up 3-1 by the first intermission, only for the Avs to score three straight in the first six minutes of the second to take the lead. Josh Anderson evened it up midway through the middle frame but shortly thereafter Jamie McGinn put Colorado up again. Dan Hamhuis scored with two minutes to play in the second period to even it up and then both teams were scoreless through the third and overtime. The shootout was also scoreless through thirteen rounds until BC native Dan Hamhuis scored the winner. Markstrom made 44 saves in the win. W 6-4 @ EDM - In another high scoring affair Justin Williams opened the scoring with his 20th and Chris Higgins added two goals and an assist as Vancouver piled on 6 goals in 19 shots on Ben Scrivens. Thomas Greiss made 30 saves in the win. L 2-0 vs STL - the Canucks laid a giant goose egg in this one, mustering only eighteen shots while Jacob Markstrom stood on his head making 43 saves to no avail without the run support. Jaden Schwartz and Ryan Reaves were the goal scorers for St. Louis. L 4-1 @ WPG - Justin Williams had the lone goal for Vancouver as they were again defeated by the Jets and another dominant game from Evander Kane, who had 2 goals and an assist. Vancouver was badly outshot, 37-23, and lost to backup goaltender Michael Hutchinson. L 1-0 @ NSH - Hamhuis is day to day with a back injury so Bieksa draws into the lineup, while Burrows also comes in for Vey and moves onto his old spot beside the Sedins. An absolute trouncing on the shot clock, as the Predators outshoot the Canucks 43-11 and despite stellar goaltending from Markstrom Viktor Arvidsson sneaks one by him to win it for the Preds. L 4-3 @ STL - Thomas Greiss gets the start and faces 40 shots, stopping 36 but that wouldn't be enough for the win as a two goal performance from David Backes, Tarasenko's 29th of the year and a a third period game winner on the powerplay from Paul Stastny were enough to top Vancouver's three goal performance. L 3-1 vs CHI - The Hawks started their backup against the downward spiralling Canucks, who are now on a five game skid at the most critical point in the season. Yet another embarrassing performance from the home team as they allow 46 shots on Markstrom while getting only 18 themselves. Brad Hunt scored the lone Canuck goal while Marian Hossa had two assists and Dustin Byfuglien had a goal and an assist in the win. L 4-1 vs SJS - a critical divisional game between two teams trending in opposite directions. Vancouver again is embarrassed at home, giving up 50 shots while managing only 14. L 7-3 @ SJS - The Canucks had a shot at redemption in San Jose but instead they were destroyed in every aspect of the game. Out shot 64-16, Vancouver was clearly outclassed, Mark Streit scored two goals and added two assists in a first star performance, while Alex Killorn also put up four points, including his 19th goal of the season. Justin Williams scored two goals in the losing effort. Markstrom was chased after allowing his seventh goal on 39 shots at the end of the second. Greiss stopped all 25 shots in the third in his relief effort but the Canucks mustered only five shots and no goals in a lacklustre comeback attempt. March Record: 5-11-0 W 3-2 @ ANA - the Canucks come in on a season worst seven game losing streak, crash and burning their way out of a playoff spot, and look to right the ship with some lineup changes. Dan Hamhuis rejoins the blueline, although reports are that his back isn't 100% yet, Sedins are back on the top line with Vrbata, Josh Anderson will get second line icetime with Higgins and Bonino while Horvat will center Letestu and Williams on the third line. Burrows, Richardson and Vey will play as the fourth line. They would get the win on the strength of three second period goals and a 36 save performance from backup Greiss, but being outshot 38-19 means Bylsma has a lot of work to do still. L 4-2 vs LAK - Jordan Weal scored two goals, his first two of the season, against an ailing Canucks franchise that is fighting for their playoff lives but lacking any on-ice evidence of urgency in the locker room. The shots were 39-25 for the Kings. Scoring chances were 15-8 for the Kings. Kopitar and Doughty both played a dominant two way game. Josh Anderson was regularly exposed in the defensive zone. Tanev and Russell both blocked seven shots. L 6-5 @ EDM - in a game that likely sealed their playoff fate this year the Canucks at least showed up to play. It was a competitive back and forth affair that saw three early goals from the Oilers (including two from ex-Canuck Yannick Weber) chase Markstrom in the first period before Brad Hunt and Daniel Sedin answered to close the gap to one before the intermission. After Taylor Hall gave the Oil a two goal lead Justin Williams drew Vancouver back to within one on the powerplay. A shorthanded goal by Klefbom re-established the two goal lead and Yannick Weber scored a dagger against his former team to complete his hat trick at the end of the second to make it 6-3. The Canucks weren't going away though, and Greiss shut the door in the third while Bonino and Letestu both scored to bring Vancouver within a goal but even a late push with the empty net wasn't enough for the Canucks to net the equalizer as time ran out for the game and maybe their season as well. L 3-2 @ CGY - A regulation loss to the Flames officially eliminates Vancouver from the playoffs. The Canucks didn't play like this game mattered, being outshot 34-21 and falling behind 2-0 in the first before Vrbata and Hunt evened it up in the second. Dennis Wideman's goal early in the third held up as the winner and Vancouver didn't have nearly enough push back in the third with their season on the line, being outshot 12-7 in the critical frame. Thomas Greiss made 31 saves in the loss. SOL 2-1 vs EDM - Justin Williams, playing in his 1000th career game, notched his 25th goal of the season, assisted by Bo Horvat and Alex Burrows (possibly his last Canuck point as his contract expires this year) in a mean nothing game that Vancouver managed to lose in a shootout. Oscar Klefbom eventually secured the shootout victory for the Oilers deep into the shootout. Record (April): 36-38-8 (1-3-1), 80 points, 5th in Pacific Team Stats: GF/gm - 2.34 (23rd) GA/gm - 2.63 (T-18th) SF/gm - 26.15 (29th) SA/gm - 34.82 (26th) PP % - 17.1 (T-13th) PK % - 83.8 (11th) Player Stats: Goals - Vrbata (26), Williams (25), Daniel (19), Higgins (16), Bonino (14) Assists - Henrik (51), Daniel (29), Vrbata, Bonino (25), Higgins (22) Points - Henrik (63), Vrbata (51), Daniel (48), Williams (43), Bonino (39) Plus/Minus - Letestu (+9), Williams (+4), Bonino (+2), Bieksa (E), Hamhuis, Hunt (-1) PIM - Hamhuis (68), Williams (46), Vrbata (42), Higgins (38), Daniel, Tanev (36) Shots - Vrbata (221), Daniel (184), Williams (179), Bonino (145), Henrik (141) Hits - Bonino (130), Richardson (125), Holden (120), Henrik, Williams (114) Takeaways - Tanev (53), Bonino (42), Holden (36), Russell (34), Hamhuis (32) Blocks - Tanev (271), Russell (238), Michalek (166), Holden (141), Hamhuis (122) FO% - Horvat (55.8), Henrik (52.9), Bonino (52.8), Richardson (50.6), Higgins (50.4) Goalies: Markstrom - 27-26-4, 2.44 GAA, .929 SvPct, 21.36 GSAA, 5 SO Greiss - 9-12-4, 2.72 GAA, .922 SvPct, 3.76 GSAA, 1 SO Summary: An epic collapse down the stretch saw a lacklustre Canucks squad throw in the towel following the trade deadline, going 6-14-1 in the final six weeks of the season to freefall out of a playoff spot entirely. While special teams looked solid, five on five play overall was lottery level and the only thing keeping this team afloat was out of this world goaltending from Markstrom. To consistently be outshot by an average of almost nine shots a game is embarrassing. There were bright spots, such as Justin Williams turning in a 25 goal season, Nick Bonino developing further as a defensively responsible middle six center, Chris Tanev solidifying his reputation as one of the better defensive defensemen in the league, the Canucks as a team being third in the NHL in faceoff percentage and Brad Hunt hitting his stride a little bit and earning 10 points through 26 games with the Canucks after being acquired from Edmonton. Rumours are swirling that Linden's job may already be in jeopardy two years into his tenure as team owner Francesco Aquilini is impatient and frustrated with missing the playoffs (and presumably the revenue that comes with a post-season appearance). Prospect Watch: C Colin Blackwell (AHL) 73gp, 20-22-42, 126pim, his shooting range and hitting have seen improvement recently RD Rasmus Andersson (OHL) 62gp, 12-36-48, +14, while his point totals in junior haven't really surpassed his draft season outputs, his game has rounded out well, showing better balance on his skates, playing with consistent determination and making better reads in his own end RD Erik Cernak (OHL) 61gp, 9-28-37, 106pim, +7, the defensive defenseman grew in strength and aggression and defensive reads, solidifying his reputation as one of the best stay at home defensemen in his league LD Vince Dunn (OHL) 61gp, 7-41-48, +5, his agility and defensive positioning are getting better LW Jared McCann (OHL) 60gp, 27-38-65, +5, improving in many areas, including his stamina, leadershihp, screening and positioning G Alexandar Georgiev (RUS) 38gp, 3.78gaa, .877sv%, 20w, showed much improvement over last years totals in the difficult Russian league, his leadership and skating are improved LW Kirill Kaprizov (RUS) 51gp, 31-24-55, +14, the dynamic winger showed improvement in his own end while still outpacing his draft year goal totals, recently he's looked stronger and become better at finding open ice in the attacking zone while also making smarter reads defensively C Nico Sturm (NCAA) 40gp, 12-23-35, E, has improved his strength, determination and ability to get open on offense C Brendan Gaunce (AHL) 74gp, 30-28-58, 109pim, -1, in his first pro season he scored 30 goals in the minors, and has looked better at getting open, hitting and agility G Anthony Stolarz (AHL) 43gp, 2.38gaa, .921 sv%, 27w, his best AHL season yet, he showed better mental toughness and improved his passing RW Jake Virtanen (WHL) 59gp, 31-44-75, -5, while he didn't demonstrate enough improvement in his own end, he has probably proven all he can at the junior level and his stamina, courage and shot power have all looked better recently |
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#91 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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15-16 Regular Season Recap
![]() The defending champion Blackhawks slide into the playoffs as a wild card but should give some serious trouble to the overachieving Ducks who feasted on a weak Pacific division. The Oilers squeaked into the third spot in the Pacific with just 84 points but will be hard pressed to overcome the red hot Sharks who have come on after a slow start and look like the team they were predicted to be in the preseason after some savvy offseason moves positioned them for success. The Preds won the West and will take on Dallas in the first round, while the Blues will play the Avalanche in the most closely matched series in the conference, with only three regular season points separating them. The President's Trophy winning Bruins are the toast of the town, boasting the league's top two scorers in Marchand and Pastrnak as well as the NHL's top scoring defenseman in Torey Krug. They will face a Lightning team that is primed and ready to establish themselves as a perennial contender with an elite young roster just entering its prime and led by young netminder Andrei Vasilevskiy. The Canadiens finished just one point back of their rivals in Boston but have been treated as something of an afterthought all year. With Carey Price on his game they could go far this year but their first test will be against the battle hardened Red Wings. The Islanders just barely topped the weaker Metropolitan division and for their prize they draw the Ottawa Senators who finished the year with just one less point than them. Meanwhile the Flyers and Capitals should be a battle as well, with Philadelphia looking to ride playoff experienced netminder Antti Niemi while Washington has done everything they can to load up and make a serious run for Ovi and Backstrom. The Pittsburgh Penguins are a surprise to be on the outside looking in come playoff time, only a year removed from making it to game seven in the Finals. They look well set for next year though, with great rookie seasons from both Jake Guentzel and Ryan Hartman. Team Stat Leaders: GF/gm - Anaheim (3.23), Boston (3.12), Tampa Bay (3.04), Montreal, Nashville (2.94) GA/gm - Montreal (2.06), NY Islanders (2.13), Boston (2.17), Detroit (2.18), Nashville (2.23) PP - Boston (25.0%), Nashville (23.8%), Chicago (22.3%), Dallas (21.2%), Tampa Bay, Anaheim, Buffalo (20.1%) PK - Montreal (89.9%), Nashville (87.4%), Detroit (87.2%), Tampa Bay (86.2%), Carolina (85.3%) Goalie Leaders (min 25gp): GAA - Price (MTL) 1.86, Halak (NYI) 1.98, Howard (DET) 2.10, Scrivens (EDM) 2.13, Rinne (NSH) 2.14 Sv Pct - Bobrovsky (CBJ), Price (MTL) .930, Allen (ARI), Markstrom (VAN) .929, Halak (NYI), Scrivens (EDM) .928 GSAA - Allen (ARI) 33.03, Bobrovsky (CBJ) 29.94, Price (MTL) 23.24, Halak (NYI) 22.27, Markstrom (VAN) 21.36 SO - Halak (NYI) 13, Price (MTL) 12, Schneider (NJD) 11, Bobrovsky (CBJ), Varlamov (COL) 10 Rookie Leaders: Points - McDavid (BUF) 19-36-55, Duclair (NYR) 20-20-40, Schmaltz (CHI) 16-23-39, Theodore (ANA) 10-24-34, Pouliot (WPG) 12-20-32 Other Stat Leaders: Takeaways - Weber (NSH) 72, Stone (OTT) 66, Brodie (CGY), Scheifele (WPG), Slavin (ANA) 63 Hits - L. Schenn (CGY) 446, Manning (PHI) 415, Melindy (ARI) 399, Bjugstad (FLA) 386, Tinordi (MTL) 382 Blocked Shots - Tanev (VAN) 271, Brodie (CGY) 267, Martinez (LAK) 257, Alzner (WSH), C. Murphy (ARI) 243 PIM - L. Schenn (CGY) 293, Tinordi (MTL) 250, Manning (PHI) 221, Melindy (ARI) 174, Borowiecki (SJS) 154 FO% - Engqvist (NJD) 58.7, Toews (CHI) 58.1, Vermette (PHI) 57.4, Glendening (DET) 57.3, Tavares (NYI) 57.2 +/- - Marchand (BOS), Pastrnak (BOS) +50, Bergeron (BOS) +49, Backstrom (WSH) +40, Lindholm (ANA), Weber (NSH) +35 |
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#92 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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![]() NHL Ticker March/April Mar 4th, 2016 - D Roman Josi signed an extension with the Nashville Predators for four years at an AAV of $5.05M. The deal comes with a full no movement clause. Josi comes in as an absolute bargain, just entering his prime at 25 and co-running the league's best powerplay. He has 16 goals and 61 total points through 65 games this season and has established himself this year as one of the NHL's premier offensive defensemen. Mar 14th, 2016 - San Jose has extended star defenseman Brent Burns (18-28-46, +16) for two more years at an AAV of $6.21M. Mar 31st, 2016 - Pittsburgh star Sidney Crosby (31-39-70) earned NHL player of the month for March. Pekka Rinne (2.16gaa, .919sv%, 9so) of the Predators was the goalie of the month. Apr 2nd, 2016 - New Jersey Devils centre Adam Henrique will be suspended for six games following a checking to the head match penalty in their game last night. With only three games left in the season this means he will also be missing their first three playoff games. Apr 3rd, 2016 - the Colorado Avalanche announce an extension with Tyson Barrie for the next four years at an average annual value of $3.6M. Barrie has fifteen goals and fifty six total points this season, but questions about his defensive game are somewhat supported by his minus four rating while playing for a playoff team. Apr 5th, 2016 - Brent Seabrook of the Blackhawks will miss the rest of the season and the first three games of the post-season with a suspension after a dangerous head shot last night. |
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#93 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Stanley Cup Playoffs Recap
![]() Round 1: West (1) Nashville 4 - (WC2) Dallas 1 (2) St. Louis 4 - (3) Colorado 0 (1) Anaheim 2 - (WC1) Chicago 4 (2) San Jose 4 - (3) Edmonton 1 Chicago's experience proved decisive as they eliminated the class of the Pacific in six games. It was not primarily the usual suspects carrying the series for the Hawks however, as they were led by Teuvo Teravainen (5-2-7) and Andrew Shaw (2-5-7) offensively. Nashville manhandled Dallas, getting five goals and nine points from James Neal in just five gamews, while Ribeiro had 8 points and Forsberg had 7. East (1) Boston 4 - (WC2) Tampa Bay 1 (2) Montreal 4 - (3) Detroit 1 (1) NY Islanders 3 - (WC1) Ottawa 4 (2) Philadelphia 2 - (3) Washington 4 Ottawa upset the Islanders in round one, led largely by the efforts of Mike Hoffman (5-3-8) and Mika Zibanejad (2-6-8). Ovechkin had seven points as his Capitals upset the Flyers in a close series. Carey Price had two shutouts and the Canadiens dominated the Red Wings in five games. Round 2: West (1) Nashville 2 - (2) St. Louis 4 (2) San Jose 3 - (WC1) Chicago 4 The Blues haven't gotten a ton of press so far this postseason, and they took that personally and put the NHL on notice after polishing off both Colorado and now Nashville to earn their berth in the Conference Finals. After splitting the crease with Brian Elliott pretty evenly all year, Khudobin was given the reins to start the playoffs and has held the starter's crease through two rounds, racking up three shutouts so far. Tarasenko has a remarkable nine goals in ten games for them. The Sharks had an incredible run, and saw some amazing performances, like Jeff Carter returning to his glory days with thirteen points in twelve games, or Brent Burns leading all defensemen in playoff scoring through two rounds with fourteen points in twelve games, but in the end they were simply overwhelmed by the defending champions as Chicago wins another key game seven. Patrick Kane has nine goals and fourteen points this postseason but their leading scorer is actually Andrew Shaw with sixteen points in thirteen games. East (1) Boston 4 - (2) Montreal 2 (3) Washington 4 - (WC1) Ottawa 3 The Bruins simply overpowered the Canadiens, who succumbed in six games despite Carey Price's efforts and an additionaly shutout from him. Marchand, Pastrnak and Bergeron has to be the most formidable line in hockey right now. Alex Ovechkin is a man on a mission for the Caps, leading the playoffs in scoring with 8 goals and 10 assists for 18 total points. It took them seven games to overcome the Senators but in the decisive match they got off to a three goal lead in the first and never looked back, pounding Craig Anderson with 38 shots while only allowing 24 on Holtby who saved all but one of them, including all thirteen third period shots when Ottawa was desperately pressing to catch up. Round 3: West (2) St. Louis 4 - (WC1) Chicago 2 Well, the Blues have done it. They sit down the defending champions in six games. Chicago looked like they were on another unstoppable run but this deep St. Louis team fought hard and earned their four wins to go to the Finals. Tarasenko was held to only one goal this series but as a team they rallied and found ways to win. Khudobin now has four shutouts through three playoff rounds. East (1) Boston 4 - (3) Washington 1 In spite of leading the playoffs in scoring through three rounds (12-14-26) Ovi couldn't will his team to victory against the mighty Bruins, who steamrolled them in five games. Marchand, Bergeron and Pastrnak have a combined 19 goals, 43 assists, 62 points and +33. They're looking virtually unstoppable through three rounds. Round 4: (1) Boston 4 - (2) St. Louis 0 The Blues looked like the real deal this year until they ran into the beast that is the Bruins. After a mediocre postseason by his standards, Rask stepped up and shut the door, allowing only two goals in four games and earning two shutouts en route to the sweep. The Blues couldn't muster anything offensively to support some very strong performances by Khudobin, who, besides a rough Game 2 in which he allowed five, only allowed five goals in three of the games yet wasn't rewarded with a single victory. Torey Krug had 3 goals and 3 assists and the top line of Bergeron, Pastrnak and Marchand was dominant throughout. Last edited by CanuckJohnny; 10-16-2023 at 12:05 AM. |
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#94 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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NHL Awards
Award - Winner (Nominees) Hart Trophy - Sidney Crosby (PIT) 81gp, 75pts, +18 (Sidney Crosby - PIT, Roman Josi - NSH, Torey Krug - BOS) Conn Smythe Trophy - RW David Pastrnak (BOS) 20gp, 27pts, +15 Norris Trophy - Torey Krug (BOS) 82gp, 83pts, +32 (Roman Josi - NSH, Shea Weber - NSH, Torey Krug - BOS) Vezina Trophy - Carey Price (MTL) 71gp, .930sv%, 12so (Sergei Bobrovsky - CBJ, Jaroslav Halak - NYI, Carey Price - MTL) Calder Trophy - Connor McDavid (BUF) 73gp, 55pts, -3 (Andrei Vasilevskiy - TBL, Nick Schmaltz - CHI, Connor McDavid - BUF) Selke Trophy - Anze Kopitar (LAK) 82gp, 77pts, +27 (Henrik Zetterberg - DET, Patrice Bergeron - BOS, Anze Kopitar - LAK) Ted Lindsay Award - Sidney Crosby (PIT) Art Ross Trophy - Brad Marchand (BOS) Rocket Richard Trophy - Brad Marchand (BOS) Lady Byng Trophy - Patrick Kane (CHI) Bill Masterton Trophy - Anton Stralman (TBL) NHL Leadership Award - Mikko Koivu (MIN) Jennings Trophy - Carey Price (MTL) Jack Adams Award - Michel Therrien (MTL) 54w (Jeff Blashill - ANA, Paul MacLean - OTT, Michel Therrien - MTL) GM of the Year - Marc Bergevin (MTL) 54w (Bryan Murray - OTT, Marc Bergevin - MTL, Bob Murray - ANA) |
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#95 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Notable Retirements
TBL D Dan Boyle (1087gp, 168-460-717, -8) ARI F Shane Doan (1477gp, 371-540-911, -60, 1268pim, 3 seasons as alternate and 12 seasons as captain, spent entire career with Arizona franchise, his number 19 will be retired) NJD F Patrik Elias (1243gp, 405-610-1015, +183, 12 seasons as an alternate and 1 season as a captain, spent entire career with New Jersey, his #26 will be retired by the team) NSH F Brian Gionta (877gp, 259-247-506, +44, four seasons as captain of Montreal, one season as captain of Buffalo) CAR D Ron Hainsey (820gp, 41-182-223, -77) ANA F Dany Heatley (924gp, 380-429-809, +41) NYR F Dominic Moore (742gp, 84-154-238, -37) |
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#96 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Coaching Carousel
Toronto OUT Randy Carlyle Toronto IN Barry Trotz Toronto's season was a dumpster fire, but the signing of the well-regarded Barry Trotz indicates ownership has no intention to remain in rebuilding mode for long. Trotz was the longtime coach of the Nashville Predators and most recently coached the Capitals in the past two seasons before being let go mid-season this year. He was the biggest available name on the coaching market, so it is fitting he comes into the massive expectations of Toronto. Chicago OUT Joel Quenneville Chicago IN Don Granato The massive expectations in Chicago led to this fairly surprising firing of Quenneville after a Conference Finals exit. Granato is an interesting choice as a defensive minded coach who excels with prospects and is a good motivator. Management is hoping he can build a good rapport with younger stars like Schmaltz and Teravainen and continue to build a competitive team for years down the road. Calgary OUT Bob Hartley Calgary IN Patrice Brisebois Brisebois will look to right the ship in Calgary. This will be his first NHL head coaching gig. Previously he was an assistant coach with the Montreal Canadiens. The former blueliner has worked extensively with defense before but there are question marks at how he will do with forwards and prospects. His in game tactical decisions are generally well regarded and he is a decent motivator of players as well as a reasonably good talent evaluator. Columbus OUT Todd Richards Columbus IN Todd McLellan It was a strange move to see Richards ousted after a winning season. He had a five year run as head coach of the Jackets. Todd McLellan comes in with the expectation he will raise the bar further and take this team to the next level. He had a fairly successful seven years as the head coach of the San Jose Sharks. He is noted for being particularly good at getting the most out of his forwards. Minnesota OUT Mike Yeo Minnesota IN Kevyn Adams The Wild had a winning season and a good locker room overall, but the consensus was that Yeo had run his course after five years at the helm so they bring in fresh blood with rookie head coach Kevyn Adams. Adams had been an assistant with the Sabres previously. While his in game tactical decisions are somewhat suspect at times, he has a reputation for pushing his players physically and improving their defensive skills, as as having a decent defensive system. He prefers to play a more physical brand of hockey and manages his players well with a reasonable amount of discipline on his teams. |
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#97 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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![]() NHL Offseason News The Florida Panthers win the Draft Lottery and move up from second to first in the first round draft order. TRADE: Chicago acquires C Sean Couturier (23yo, 82gp, 17-26-43, +2), C Antoine Vermette (33yo, 74gp, 6-9-15, +7), PHI 7th 2016; Philadelphia acquires G Corey Crawford (31yo, 65gp, 31w, 5so, 2.75gaa, .902sv%) @ 5% retained, CHI 3rd 2016 The Blackhawks make a big splash, moving out star netminder Corey Crawford while getting younger with rising star and two way force Sean Couturier. The Flyers move out a key prospect but gain an elite goalie with championship experience. The fact that they also acquire a top 100 draft pick helps to offset the pain of losing Couturier. Philadelphia wins this trade. TRADE: San Jose acquires RW Jordan Martinook (23yo, AHL 78gp, 19-39-58, +3); Arizona acquires C Steve Ott (33yo, 20gp, 0-2-2, -8), D Jeremy Roy (19yo, AHL 81gp, 3-24-27, +3, 126pim) TRADE: Calgary acquires LW Kyle Connor (19yo, AHL 81gp, 20-29-49, +3); Florida acquires C Mikael Backlund (27yo, 50gp, 7-13-20, -3) The Flames move out a career Flame in Backlund, a constant two way contributor in their lineup ever since making the team full time as a 21 year old. He had an off year, battled injuries, was a minus player and had the lowest points per game he's had since his 22 year old season. He's only a year removed from posting career highs of 19 goals, 35 assists and a plus sixteen rating, and clearly still regarded highly around the league as his return is top prospect and last year's fourth overall pick Kyle Connor. Connor is highly touted offensively but there are question marks around his play in his own end. The Flames win this deal. TRADE: Pittsburgh acquires C Adam Brooks (20yo, AHL 82gp, 24-29-53, +2); Calgary acquires G Eric Hartzell (27yo, AHL 45gp, 1.84gaa, .939sv%) Bizarre move for Calgary who looked like they were trying to get younger in the Backlund-Connor trade. They give up on Brooks pretty early (many scouts believe he has at least middle six NHL upside) in exchange for a 27 year old dime-a-dozen minor league goalie. Pittsburgh wins this deal. TRADE: Carolina acquires G James Reimer (28yo, 17gp, 3.04gaa, .921sv%, 6w); TOR acquires LW Brad Malone (27yo, 74gp, 7-13-20, -17) Toronto had to move a goalie and the Hurricanes took advantage. Brad Malone is a defense-first fourth liner who plays a physical and responsible game. His minus seventeen is more the result of playing for Carolina last year than an indication of his defensive abilities. Reimer has looked decent in his opportunities in Toronto but wasn't going to get playing time. In Carolina he will have a chance to at least be a 1B and earn more starts. This is a win for Carolina. TRADE: Boston acquires D Joel Edmundson (23yo, AHL 82gp, 4-42-46, +1); St. Louis acquires C Chris Mueller (30yo, AHL 82gp, 24-30-54, +4) TRADE: NY Rangers acquire LW Max Friberg (23yo, AHL 73gp, 23-24-47, +11); Anaheim acquires RW Rene Bourque (34yo, 20gp, 0-3-3, -2) TRADE: Columbus acquires LW Eric Tangradi (27yo, 14/15 33gp, 7-2-9, E); Nashville acquires C Matt Stajan (32yo, 21gp, 0-2-2, -1) |
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#98 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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Canucks Offseason News
![]() Re-Signings: D Brad Hunt - 2 years @ $600k AAV D Kevin Gravel - 2 year 2 way deal C Alex Friesen - 2 year 2 way deal RW Justin Williams - 1 year @ $2.6M D Dan Hamhuis - 3 years @ $2.02M Vancouver made some depth signings for the AHL club in inking Kevin Gravel and Alex Friesen to two year extensions. Brad Hunt showed decently down the stretch in a powerplay role and earned a two year contract. Justin Williams had a bounce back season and brought some veteran experience to the locker room and they are happy to be bringing him back for another year. Negotiations with BC born Dan Hamhuis went down to the wire, with term being a real sticking point, but in the end Linden agreed to go to three years and Hamhuis agreed to play for a hometown discount. ELCs: LW Ludwig Blomstrand LW Jared McCann RW Jake Virtanen D Rasmus Andersson C Colin Blackwell To UFA: F Radim Vrbata D Kevin Bieksa F Mason Raymond D Alex Biega UFA Signings: D Nick Schultz (33yo, AHL 70gp, 3-21-24, -2) - 2years, $690k AAV D Scott Mayfield (23yo, AHL 82gp, 3-23-26, +8) - 3 years, $875k AAV Trade: VAN acquires LW Alex Iafallo (22yo, AHL 82gp, 28-32-60, +4); CHI acquires F Mark Letestu (31yo, 79gp, 8-18-26, +9). Analysis - The Canucks move on from their plus minus leader, a versatile and skilled bottom six forward who can play second unit power play minutes in a pinch, in order to gain a three star prospect in Iafallo. Linden is looking to get younger and stock the cupboards for the future, so when Chicago came calling for Letestu and offered up a prospect with middle six NHL potential he jumped on it and pulled the trigger on a deal with the rival club. Chicago hopes that Letestu can continue to provide the two way play he did in Vancouver while upping his offensive totals. This is a bit of a strange move for Chicago, who seem confused as to whether they are trying to get younger (Couturier) and retool on the fly or acquire veterans while spending prospects. This deal is a win for the Canucks, who turn last summer's free agent acquisition into a long term team controlled asset with Iafallo. |
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#99 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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2016 NHL Entry Draft Preview
Projected Top Ten Picks: C Auston Matthews (SUI, 80gp, 27-38-65, +5) The consensus number one pick played in Europe against men and looked eminently capable and often dominant. His calling card is his elite shot and offensive mind, finding open spots in the defense and beating goalies with his quick release and deadly accuracy. RW Matthew Tkachuk (WHL, 66gp, 41-52-93, +5) Tkachuk brings an all around offensive package, creativity and playmaking, good skating and an aggressive and physical style. He's the kind of player you win with in the playoffs, his motor never stops and he goes to all the hard areas. RD Charlie McAvoy (NCAA, 43gp, 8-23-31, E) McAvoy plays an incredibly mature two way game, defending at an elite level by being in the right place at the right time and eliminating options from the offense. He also has a physical edge and a crisp, NHL level first pass. He can log a lot of minutes and has untapped offensive potential as well. RD Adam Fox (HS, 67gp, 8-52-60, +5) An offensive defenseman, Fox doesn't stand out physically but is a good skater and tireless hockey player who has an incredible offensive mind. His hockey IQ in the offensive zone sets him apart even without any eye popping tools. He works well with teammates and can read the ice like a book and run a PP1 with ease and confidence. C Pierre-Luc Dubois (QMJHL, 66gp, 34-33-67, +2) With size and skill, Dubois is the kind of pivot every GM wants on his top line. He plays with a blend of power and finesse but is frustratingly streaky at times. His effort in his own end is somtimes questionable but his ability to find open ice and control the puck and the play in the offensive zone is not. LW Patrik Laine (FIN, 56gp, 20-24-43, -2) A pure sniper, Laine won't blow you away with his defense or skating but his shot and his ability to get open and get that shot off is second only to Auston Matthews in this year's draft class. He had success playing in Finland against men and scouts are excited to see what the 6'5" winger can do on North American ice in a year or two. LW Alex DeBrincat (OHL, 65gp, 48-38-86, -2) A prolific goal scorer, DeBrincat uses his quickness, stickhandling and skill to find holes in the defense and create scoring chances. There are some questions about how his game will translate to the NHL with his diminutive frame (5'7") but he hasn't been hindered by his height thus far in his hockey career. RW Tage Thompson (CIS, 43gp, 19-32-51, -9) A bit of an unknown to start the year, Thompson flew under the radar a bit, playing in the Canadian university league. He has the size and reach that GMs love and is great at screening goalies or beating them from distance with a seeing eye shot. He's such a big, skilled hockey player that it's hard to imagine he won't be able to find success at the NHL level. C Logan Brown (OHL, 68gp, 24-38-62, +9) Logan Brown has the intangibles that coaches look for and his steady two way play saw him shoot up draft boards this year despite his relatively pedestrian scoring numbers. Make no mistake, he can chip in offensively and was almost a point a game in his draft year in junior, but his calling card is his defense and two way acumen. Just a well rounded hockey player, lower ceiling than the rest of this group but a high floor and a safe pick. G Carter Hart (WHL, 24gp, 2.10gaa, .930sv%, 17w) An elite goalie prospect who hardly lost a game this season in junior and played well in the world juniors, Hart should be an NHL starter in time. He has a well rounded and technically sound game and a great glove hand. |
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#100 |
All Star Reserve
Join Date: Apr 2022
Posts: 554
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NHL Entry Draft 2016
![]() Round 1 TRADE: VAN acquires 2016 WPG 1st (3rd overall), D Derrick Pouliot (22yo, 59gp, 12-20-32, -9); WPG acquires 2016 VAN 1st (6th overall), 2018 VAN 1st (top5 protected), C Brad Richardson (31yo, 82gp, 7-10-17, -13), prospect C Nico Sturm (21yo, NCAA, 44gp, 13-27-40, -1), rights to F Linden Vey (24yo, 18gp, 2-4-6, -6). Instant Analysis - The cost of moving up three spots was high, with Vancouver spending a future first to move into the top three and have a shot at some truly elite talent and probably one of the top two defensemen in the draft. To offset the pain of losing another first they do acquire rising star Derrick Pouliot, an offensive defenseman they are sorely lacking and named to the NHL All Rookie team this past season. 1st Pick: FLA selects C Auston Matthews No surprise here, Florida gets the most dominant offensive player in the draft and a budding superstar sniper. 2nd Pick: ARI selects RW Matthew Tkachuk Arizona goes with the all around offensive skill and intangibles of Keith Tkachuk's son. Tkachuk should put up a lot of points in this league. 3rd Pick: VAN selects RD Charlie McAvoy The Canucks trade up to make sure they can get their man on defense. McAvoy is a potential number one NHL defenseman, unbelievably good in his own end especially for his age and also able to control play offensively. 4th Pick: TOR selects LW Alex DeBrincat DeBrincat produces. He scored 48 goals in his draft year. There are question marks about his size and defense but his scoring prowess and finishing ability are indisputable. 5th Pick: CGY selects RW Jordan Kyrou The Flames go a little off the board taking the skilled Kyrou. They believe in his skating and playmaking ability and are expecting him to develop into a productive top six NHLer one day. 6th Pick: WPG selects RD Dante Fabbro Winnipeg surprises by passing on consensus top five blueliner Adam Fox to go for the more traditional all around defenseman with a heavy shot. TRADE: NYR acquires 2016 CAR 1st (7th overall); CAR acquires 2016 NYR 1st (13th overall), 2016 TBL 1st (21st overall), RW Jesper Fast (59gp, 6-5-11, -2). Instant Analysis - The Rangers jump up to grab their guy, presumably Adam Fox who is still on the board, surprisingly, at seven. The Canes acquire two first rounders a little farther down and a utility NHLer in Fast. 7th Pick: NYR selects RD Adam Fox The Rangers believe in Fox and he is on record already as wanting to play for them so they ignore the questions about his size and tools and trade up to get him. Fox has an amazing offensive mind and should be able to step into running an NHL PP1 in a couple years. 8th Pick: LAK selects RW Tage Thompson The Kings draft the rangy winger oozing with talent and hope he pops as an elite first line forward who can dominate games. 9th Pick: EDM selects C Michael McLeod The speedy two way forward goes to the Oilers, he is good at both ends of the rink and uses his feet to his advantage all over the ice. 10th Pick: BUF selects G Carter Hart The hands down best goalie in the draft goes to Buffalo, who now have both him and McDavid to build around. 11th Pick: MIN selects C Logan Brown A classic Wild center with two way chops and intangibles, they should love him in Minny. 12th Pick: DAL selects RW Drake Batherson The skilled Batherson works hard and skates well and put up 70 points in the OHL in his draft year. 13th Pick: CAR selects C Tyson Jost Jost is a good skater who can play a lot of minutes and sees the ice really well, but had an underwhelming season statistically at the Junior A level in his draft year. 14th Pick: CBJ selects C Pierre-Luc Dubois Dubois falls out of the top ten, perhaps due to attitude concerns or questions about his consistency, but Columbus is happy to draft a player who could finally be that coveted 1C they've always wanted. 15th Pick: PIT selects LD Ryan Lindgren Lindgren is a hard nosed defensive defenseman, what you see is what you get with him. He won't score goals but should help keep them out of your net. 16th Pick: FLA selects LW Dillon Dube The Panthers go with Dube, who plays hard on the puck and has a hard shot as well. 17th Pick: NJD selects G Joseph Woll Woll definitely has potential to be an NHL goalie after showing well in his High School season, but how that translates and how he develops is yet to be seen. 18th Pick: TOR selects RD Andrew Peeke The Leafs go with a steady defense first blueliner who plays the right way. Peeke won't impress you offensively but he knows his job and executes it well. 19th Pick: SJS selects LW Clayton Keller Keller has electrifying skill and probably the best hands in the draft. His skating is great and he is in the right place at the right time in his own end as well. He slid this far because of concerns about his size and the fact he didn't put up eye popping numbers in high school, but in a few years he could shoot up redraft boards. The analytics crowd loves this kid. 20th Pick: COL selects RW Joey Anderson 21st Pick: CAR selects LW Max Jones 22nd Pick: PHI selects RW Luke Kunin The Flyers choose the very well rounded Kunin, a two way winger who skates well, plays physical and controls play at both ends of the ice. 23rd pick: OTT selects LD Dennis Cholowski 24th pick: STL selects LW Patrik Laine Laine may possess the second best shot in the draft, but slid this far because there are concerns about his attitude and some see him as too one dimensional on the ice. St. Louis could really have a steal here if he develops well and proves his critics wrong. He could've just as easily gone top five as all the way down here at 24th. 25th pick: NYI selects RD Nick Blankenburg 26th pick: DET selects LD Scott Perunovich 27th pick: ANA selects C Trent Frederic 28th pick: NSH selects C Brett Howden 29th pick: MTL selects RW Julien Gauthier 30th pick: BOS selects C Jasper Weatherby Round 2 31st pick: ARI selects LD Maxim Lajoie 32nd pick: FLA selects RW Yegor Sharangovich The Belarussian forward is a smooth skater who excels in puck retrieval and in finding open ice in the offensive zone to get his shot off. 33rd pick: WPG selects LD Jakob Chychrun Winnipeg could have a steal on their hands here. Chychrun isn't an amazing skater and wasn't productive offensively in his draft year, but he logs a ton of minutes in every situation and is intelligent at both ends of the ice with a good stick and a good shot. He has NHL size and was projected to be a mid first round pick but slid because of skating and potential issues with coachability. If he hits he could become a top pairing NHL defenseman that a lot of teams regret overlooking. 34th pick: TOR selects RW Jesper Bratt The speedy playmaker was only moderately successful in Sweden in his draft year so he slides out of the first round, but he is creative offensively and thinks the game well in all three zones. He was used in all situations and never seems to tire. He can play either wing comfortably and has good intangibles. 35th pick: ANA selects LW Jackson Cates 36th pick: VAN selects LD Mikhail Sergachev Another blueliner who was slated to go mid first round drops into the early second. Sergachev has NHL size and playmaking ability. His shot was good in junior, and he scored 12 goals in the Q in his draft year. He reads the play well at both ends and wins a lot of puck battles, but has battled consistency and motivation issues and didn't play top pairing minutes in junior. He is able to play his off side without missing a beat, which is impressive at his age. 37th pick: NYR selects C Garrett Pilon 38th pick: ARI selects LW Tyler Benson 39th pick: EDM selects LD Samuel Girard Girard is a slick puck moving defenseman who skates well and knows where to be in his own end while bringing a heavy shot and good playmaking to a powerplay unit as well. He is small and plays like it, but is most definitely the most dynamic offensive defenseman left on the board and should make the NHL on his skill alone. 40th pick: BUF selects LD Josh Mahura 41st pick: MIN selects LW Kieffer Bellows 42nd pick: MTL selects LD Logan Stanley The towering defenseman won't get you a lot of points but he plays defense very well. He is physically dominant of course, but he doesn't play with nearly as much of an edge as you'd expect from a man with his frame. 43rd pick: NYR selects LD Riley Stillman 44th pick: CBJ selects LW Rasmus Asplund 45th pick: CHI selects LW Brandon Hagel Hagel has an accurate shot, good speed and leadership intangibles to offset his 5'11" frame. 46th pick: PIT selects LW Boris Katchouk 47th pick: NJD selects LD Matt Kiersted 48th pick: WSH selects C Connor Bunnaman 49th pick: NYR selects RW Nathan Bastian 50th pick: COL selects LD Kale Clague 51st pick: TBL selects RD Dylan Coghlan 52nd pick: PHI selects RD Filip Hronek The Flyers get an offensive defenseman who really developed his two way game this year in the Dub, going from a -12 in his D-1 year to a +7 in his draft year this season while still putting up 50 assists and 56 points. Hronek is a great playmaker with a reasonably heavy shot and can skate really well. 53rd pick: OTT selects C Sam Steel 54th pick: STL selects C Brandon Gignac 55th pick: NYI selects LW Jonathan Dahlen Dahlen is a very shifty skater who plays with offensive creativity and vision. He is also capable at center and does well on faceoffs. He had a productive year in Sweden, potting 26 goals in 56 games. 56th pick: DET selects LW Riley Tufte 57th pick: ANA selects RW Jesse Puljujarvi The Ducks get a winger with a massive frame just oozing with potential. He had limited opportunity in Finland this year and dropped down draft boards as a result, but he's effective in front of the net on the powerplay and at finding open space to get a shot off. He has good wheels when he gets going and if he can ever put it together consistently at the NHL level he will be a force, but he may always be more of a passenger than a play driver and he needs a good distributor to create opportunities for him. 58th pick: NSH selects RW Wade Allison 59th pick: MTL selects C Noah Gregor 60th pick: BOS selects LW Cole Koepke Notable Prospects Remaining: G Filip Gustavsson C Eetu Luostarinen LW Carsen Twarynski RW Taylor Raddysh C Morgan Geekie LD Jake Bean LW Axel Jonsson Fjallby C Matthew Phillips C Kristian Reichel LD Markus Niemelainen C Blake Lizotte LD Jacob Bryson LD Kristians Rubins LD Sean Day G Zach Sawchenko RW Will Lockwood LD Olli Juolevi RW Alex Nylander RW Ty Ronning LD Victor Mete Canucks Picks: 1(3) RD Charlie McAvoy 2(36) LD Mikhail Sergachev 3(66) C Blake Lizotte 3(69) RW Ty Ronning 4(96) LW Alexei Goloshumov |
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