With the season almost upon us I thought it would be fun to quickly go over every team to get a better understanding of the league. Not entirely a preview as there's lots of review from last season. Please excuse the long post. Feel free to disagree with any/all of my takes. It's only game, why you heff to be mad?
2023/24 EHEC SEASON PREVIEW
Predicted 2023/24 Final Standings
Western Conference
1 Los Angeles Kings
2 Chicago Blackhawks
3 Colorado Avalanche
4 Dallas Stars
5 San Jose Sharks
6 St. Louis Blues
7 Detroit Red Wings
8 Nashville Predators
9 Anaheim Ducks
10 Edmonton Oilers
11 Vancouver Canucks
12 Arizona Coyotes
13 Calgary Flames
14 Winnipeg Jets
15 Minnesota Wild
Eastern Conference
1 Tampa Bay Lightning
2 Pittsburgh Penguins
3 Montreal Canadiens
4 Florida Panthers
5 New York Rangers
6 Ottawa Senators
7 Philadelphia Flyers
8 Toronto Maple Leafs
9 New York Islanders
10 New Jersey Devils
11 Boston Bruins
12 Carolina Hurricanes
13 Washington Capitals
14 Columbus Blue Jackets
15 Buffalo Sabres
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Northwest: Colorado Avalanche - Edmonton Oilers - Vancouver Canucks - Calgary Flames - Winnipeg Jets
Central: Chicago Blackhawks - St. Louis Blues - Detroit Red Wings - Nashville Predators - Minnesota Wild
Pacific: Los Angeles Kings - Dallas Stars - San Jose Sharks - Anaheim Ducks - Arizona Coyotes
Northeast: Montreal Canadiens - Ottawa Senators - Toronto Maple Leafs - Boston Bruins - Buffalo Sabres
Atlantic: Pittsburgh Penguins - New York Rangers - Philadelphia Flyers - New York Islanders - New Jersey Devils
Southeast: Tampa Bay Lightning - Florida Panthers - Carolina Hurricanes - Washington Capitals - Columbus Blue Jackets
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ANAHEIM
28-42-4-8 68 pts 2022/23 league finish: 24th. 5th in Pacific. Last made playoffs in 21/22 lost in WCF.
206 GF 257 GA PP 14.63% PK 78.39%
29th 22nd 27th 26th
Last Season Leaders
G - Alex Holtz (25)
A - Mathew Barzal (31)
P - Mathew Barzal (52)
PIM - Hunter Shinkaruk (107)
HG - Luke Schenn (297)
GV - Blake Clarke (148)
TK - Luke Schenn (205)
SB - Luke Schenn (91)
FO% - Michael Rasmussen (54.7)
TOI - Ilya Karpukhin (27.3)
W - Christopher Gibson (21)
in
TRADE: Victor Hedman (TB)
FA: Rick Nash (EDM) Marian Gaborik (WSH) Nik Backstrom (FLA) Evander Kane (WPG) Tom Keuhnhackl FA (NJ) Zack Boychuk (CAR)
out:
FA: Dan Krejci (NYR) Paul Ranger (NYR) Blake Clarke FA (NJ) Christopher Gibson FA (NYI) TJ Oshie Drew Shore Artemi Panarin
Massive additions, age is a factor - could be risky. It makes sense with Anaheim having no 2024 1st. They will definitely be better than last season. Their moves do a good job of propelling them into the fire in the rough Pacific. Hedman creates breathing room for Schenn and Karupukhin, last years minute eaters. Along with improvement from Bahl and Wilde, this will greatly improve defence.
Strength: Young core. Holtz and Johnson are only 21. Even if the new veterans don't workout Anaheim won't have to mortgage the future.
Weakness: Lack of size/defensive forwards. Nash is a great add if he can handle the minutes.
Need more from: Dubois. The Ducks 4th highest paid player had a career low 11 goals last season. Could the new additions enable him to succeed or will it take a change of scenery?
Goalies: Fleury starts with Ben Gaudreau looking to beat Stu Skinner for the backup spot.
Can Shinkaruk bounce back?
How will Kent Johnson settle in up front?
Are the moves enough to compete in the death gauntlet that is the west?
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ARIZONA
30-40-4-8 72 pts 2022/23 league finish: 20th. 4th in Pacific. Last made playoffs 2020/21 lost in WCQF
228 GF 254 GA PP 15.64% PK 82.18%
21st 20th 24th 13th
Last Season Leaders
G - Lawson Crouse (29)
A - Jonathan Drouin (43)
P - Jonathan Drouin (64)
PIM - Tyler Benson (91)
HG - Oliver Ekman-Larsson (318)
GV - Lawson Crouse (118)
TK - Erik Gudbranson (233)
SB - Hayden Fleury (100)
FO% - Jordan Staal (51.5)
ITG - Oliver Ekman-Larsson (26.4)
W - Evan Sarthou (28)
in
none
out
FA: Nikolay Goldobin (BUF) Gus Forsling (SJ)
Arizona holds firm with last years roster, losing two to free agency. They will have to lean hard on their big defencemen to carry the weight. Will be difficult to compete in stacked Pacific. Future of Jordan Staal and Erik Gudbranson could be in question as they both go into the final year of their deals.
Strength: Defence core. Core four led by OEL will have a lot of heavy lifting to do to find success.
Weakness: Scoring. Only 4 players with 80 or better shooting. They're going to need a lot of greasy goals.
Need more from: Depth forwards. The Yotes need scoring help, a big kick from their bottom 6 would do a lot in getting that.
Goalies: Evan Sarthou looks to improve on a career season with Fitzpatrick as his backup.
18 minute hole on defence without Forsling, will Salo or Guhle be the answer?
Could Ohgren be ready for a depth role?
Can Chibrikov beat Formenton, Der-Arguchintsev and Fortier for Goldobin's spot?
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BOSTON
28-40-3-11 70 pts 2022/23 league finish: 21st. 4th in Northeast. Last made playoffs in 2021/22 lost in ECQF
221 GF 295 GA PP 15.06% PK 84.78%
26th 23rd 16th 30th
Last Season Leaders
G - Sam Reinhart (24)
A - Sam Reinhart (38)
P - Sam Reinhart (62)
PIM - Barret Hayton (75)
HG - Nicolas Hague (242)
GV - Adam Gilmour (134)
TK - Nicolas Hague (199)
SB - Thomas Chabot (102)
FO% - Quinton Byfield (55.7)
TOI - Thomas Chabot (27.3)
W - Thatcher Demko (19)
in
FA: Ivan Telegin (NSH) Calvin Pickard FA (OTT)
out
FA: Thatcher Demko (FLA) Adam Gilmour (CHI)
Boston upgraded two positions in free agency. Importantly, their goaltending situation has shifted from Thatcher Demko to Calvin Pickard. This upgrade acknowledges the significant improvement needed keeping pucks out of the net both shorthanded and 5v5. They'll need to start strong if they want to keep enough morale to challenge for a playoff spot. A poor year could signal a retool at the least with over half the starting roster on expiring contracts.
Strength: Incredible 1-2 down the middle. Sam Reinhart/Quinn Byfield would both be standout 1st line centers on any team in the league.
Weakness: Lacking offensive firepower. Boston scored 215 goals last season, good for 5th last. If Telegin doesn't fit Boston could be in for another tough year.
Needs more from: Bowen Byram. The clear #1 will eat most of the minutes on the back end. A big year from him could ease pressure on the rest of the core. Boston will live and die by his performance.
Goalies: Newly added Pickard takes the reigns from Demko. Will the jump be enough of an upgrade?
Tale of two teams last year. 7 players over +10. 7 players under -10 including 4 past -30. going to need Byram to be better than -33.
No lack of offensive defencemen. lacking defensive minded players.
Needs improvement on league last 75% penalty kill.
Can Brycen Martin have another big year?
Will 5v5 play see a consistency improvement?
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BUFFALO
25-47-1-9 60 pts 2022/23 league finish: 29th. 5th in Northeast. Last made playoffs in 2015/16 lost in ECQF
221 GF 295 GA PP 15.06% PK 84.78%
24th 29th 26th 5th
Last Season Leaders
G - Nick Ritchie (30)
A - Fredrik Forsberg (44)
P - Fredrik Forsberg (69)
PIM - Zemgus Girgensons (85)
HG - Viktor Svedberg (317)
TK - Viktor Svedberg (165)
GV - Robert Mastrosimone (119)
SB - Viktor Svedberg (111)
FO% - Travis Zajac (57.3)
TOI - Viktor Svedberg (26.9)
W - Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (20)
in
TRADE: Mikko Koivu (PIT) Patrik Puistola (PIT) Ivan Morozov (COL) Oscar Back (COL) Ryan Kesler trade (VAN)
FA: Brent Seabrook (SJ) Nathan Beaulieu (WSH) Jared McCann (LA) Brock Nelson (FLA) Nikolay Goldobin (ARZ) Joe Pavelski (PHI) Logan Shaw (TB) Saku Salminen (NYR) Marc Staal (OTT)
out
TRADE: David Pastrnak (WPG) Jeremy Roy (WPG)
FA: Jonathan Dahlén (CAR) Connor Rankin (LA) Jacob Larsson (NJ) Lucas Carlsson (NJ) Joonas Korpisalo (TOR) Zemgus Girgensens (WPG) Ivan Kosorenkov (NSH)
The new Buffalo GM has not wasted time, cycling 9 players out and bringing 14 in. It's clear there is change in western New York. Don't expect much improvement in the standings from this however. There's still much work to do.
Strength: 20+ million in cap space once the year is over leaves many options going forward with the potential to also eat more bad contracts.
Weakness: Skill throughout the lineup. Buffalo will be in deep trying to play hockey this season. A complete lack of high end talent will sink any hopes of meaningful success.
Need more from: Head office. The Sabres have lacked direction for almost a decade. If they are to succeed in the future a concrete plan must be adhered to.
Goalies: UPL and Petruzelli should split starts assuming Petruzelli can show he belongs. If not, Luukkonen will likely see most of the reps. Time will tell if being shelled every night is good for development.
Can Jiricek show he can handle being a top guy at a young age?
Will any of the additions show enough to actually improve the team?
How many players can be moved to create value in future lineups?
Can Gabe Carlsson bounce back after missing most of last season?
Will UPL show enough to earn another inflated contract?
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CALGARY
28-44-2-8 66 pts 2022/23 league finish: 25th. 3rd in Northwest. Last made playoffs in 2017/18 when they won the cup.
239 GF 277 GA PP 16.46% PK 81.74%
18th 27th 23rd 17th
Last Season Leaders
G - Nathan MacKinnon (35)
A - Morgan Rielly (39)
P - Nathan MacKinnon (69)
PIM - Nathan MacKinnon (124)
HG - Alex Coulombe (222)
TK - Alex Coulombe (204)
GV - James Van Riemsdyk (135)
SB - Morgan Rielly (115)
FO% - Sam Bennett (50.4)
ITG - Morgan Rielly (26.1)
W - Pyotr Kochetkov (24)
in
FA: Tyler Biggs (DET) Mattias Backman (NYI) Sam Gagner (WPG)
out
FA: James Van Riemsdyk (CHI) Ryan O'Reilly (SJ) James Winkler (OTT) Julius Honka (NJ)
With 1 year remaining on both Matthews and MacKinnon's contracts as well as the addition of Connor Bedard, could a rebuild be on the horizon in Calgary? Adding Tyler Biggs softens the blow of losing James Van Riemsdyk. He will be a valuable addition to a team with 2 players above 80 hitting. Defence must tighten up, 4th worst GA last season. Improvement in special teams could also go a long way.
Strength: Elite offensive talent. The Flames powerplay could be among the best in the league if Drysdale can settle in as the elite PP QB he was drafted to be.
Weakness: Goals against. Only 3 teams were scored on more than the Flames last season. Either Kochetkov has to stand on his head or the D needs to clamp down.
Need more from: Auston Matthews. Relative to his skills on paper, he has underperformed the last couple years. Expectations should be Richard level.
Goalies: Kochetkov and Sawchenko will get lots of development time.
Will Hendrix Lapierre or Fabian Lysell establish themselves as every day players?
Can Morgan Reilly handle 25+ minutes a night?
Is is still time to be on team tank?
How much could the Flames stars fetch in trades, are they even worth trading? Are they still young enough to last through a rebuild?
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Carolina
27-46-3-6 63 pts. 2022/23 league finish: 27th. 4th in Southeast. Last made playoffs in 2020/21 lost in ECQF
222 GF 297 GA PP 17.6% PK 82.08%
23rd 30th 19th 15th
Last Season Leaders
G - Zach Boychuk (22)
A - Kale Clague (31)
P - Zach Boychuk/Nic Roy (47)
PIM - Kerby Rychel (155)
HG - Karl Alzner (226)
TK - Jonathan-Ismael Diaby (190)
GV - Zach Boychuk/Tom Wilson (102)
SB - Karl Alzner (111)
FO% - Brandon Sutter (63)
ITG - Bohumil Jank (26.1)
W - Felix Sandstrom (16)
in
TRADE: Brendan Perlini (NYR) Danila Galenyuk (TOR) Artyom Grushnikov (COL)
FA: Zach Kassian (NYR) Logan Couture (WPG) Chris Calnan (WSH) Steve Mason (LA)
out
TRADE: Joel Farabee (NYR) Alexei Bereglazov (COL)
FA: Kerby Rychel (PHI) Zach Boychuk (ANA) Ivan Muranov (NSH) Viktor Baldayev (TB) Joni Pitkanen (RET? ) Adam Brizgala (STL) Quentin Shore (SJ)
Carolina was busy restocking the cupboards in FA, headlining with the acquisition of Zach Kassian on a 1 yr deal. The Canes also acquired tough winger Brendan Perlini in exchange for Joel Farabee. The moves add a new layer of grit up front. Now half the expected starting roster has over 80 hitting. Couture and Mason should bring stability while being movable if the time comes. Smart moves for a rebuilding team.
Strength: movable assets. With the rebuild upon them and players like Kassian, Diaby, Wilson and Alzner all on reasonable or retainable contracts, Carolina is poised for a jump start toward their new era. Free agent adds should help overall team defence. Don't look for Carolina at the top of the standings.
Weakness: Lack of defensive prospects. While Caufield, Dvorsky and Nazar project to be great players, they won't be able to keep the puck out of their net alone. With the addition of a couple quality young blueliners, the future could look much brighter. Carolina should be focused on the next draft.
Need more from: The GM. The greatest addition to this organization would be a dedicated GM with a little patience and vision for the future. Let us ask the gods for one in exchange for a sacrificial goat or something.
Goalies: Sandstrom has struggled the last couple years, Mason should be an excellent 1B. If all goes to plan Sandstrom could get back to his winning ways. With 3 30 win seasons already under his belt, Carolina fans know what he's capable of.
Losing Rychel, Boychuk and Muranov should keep penalties down.
Is this the year Caufield becomes a 30 goal scorer?
How much does Mason improve team GAA?
If/when do they blow up the team?
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CHICAGO
49-21-2-10 110 pts 2022/23 league finish: 2nd. 1st in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCF
276 GF 215 GA PP 21.25% PK 86.25%
6th 3rd 4th 1st
Last Season Leaders
G - Valeri Nichushkin (39)
A - Philip Danault/Paul Stastny (43)
P - Paul Stastny (75)
PIM - Valeri Nichushkin (141)
HG - Colby Cohen (339)
TK - Colby Cohen (291)
GV - Aiden Muir (179)
SB - Brandon Carlo (82)
ITG - Tyler Cuma (26.8)
FO% - Tyrel Seaman (62.6)
W - Riku Helenius (38)
in
TRADE: Michael Downing (MTL)
FA: Ty Dellandrea (MTL) Bobby Ryan (EDM) James Van Riemsdyk (CGY) Braden Holtby (WSH) Erik Cernak (SJ) Noah Juulsen (CBJ) Guillaume Latendresse (DET) Adam Gilmour (BOS) Max Pacioretty (WPG) Quinton Howden (DET) Alex Dergachyov (DAL) Marcus Foligno (TB)
out
TRADE: Alex Galchenyuk (DAL) Brandon Carlo (TB) Valeri Nichushkin (NYR) Devante Stephens (MTL)
FA: Joe Morrow (MTL) John MacLeod (OTT) David Booth (RET?) Tyrel Seaman (OTT) David Elsner (DAL) Ilya Korneev (LA)
Berny's wild ride is moving, it's shaking, it's making something happen. After reaching the WCF and losing in 6 games to LA, Chicago has made moves in both directions. Shipping multiple players out for draft picks while also being very aggressive in free agency. James Van Riemsdyk is the prize this year, signing with the Hawks for league max after a heated bidding war. He will be looking to bounce back after a 32 point performance last year. With excellent coaching Chicago is set up to challenge this year.
Strength: Hitting. 4 players with max, 14 at 80 or above. The motive of the team is clear, take no prisoners. Old school hockey lives here.
Weakness: Top end defence. While there are no glaring holes, there are also no world beaters here either. This solid regular season D corps lacks a proper top end. The issue of an elite defender could be what holds them back from the cup.
Need more from: James Van Riemsdyk. Spiritual successor to Nuke, the 9 million dollar man. If he struggles, it'll be up to the army of league minimum vets to make up the 60 goals left by Nuke and Galchenyuk.
Goalies: Riku Helenius returns to attempt another wonder season at age 35 with newcomer Braden Holty backing up.
Are Cernak and Juulsen able to replace Morrow and Carlo?
Can they manage to be as deep up front again this year?
Will their aggressive hitting style bite them with penalties?
Can new role players keep special teams elite?
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COLARADO
30-43-2-7 69 pts. 2022/23 league finish: 22nd. 2nd in Northwest. Last made playoffs in never. hasn't happened. yet.
217 GF 241 GA PP 19.56% PK 84.5%
25th 12th 13th 6th
Last Season Leaders
G - Alex Nylander (28)
A - Mitchell Marner (43)
P - Mitchell Marner (68)
PIM - Pavel Buchnevich (134)
HG - Moritz Seider (301)
TK - Moritz Seider (172)
GV - Jaromir Pytlik (133)
SB - Moritz Seider (108)
ITG - Moritz Seider (26.6)
FO% - Jaromir Pytlik (50.7)
W - Jake Oettinger (20)
in
TRADE: Alex Radulov (PHI) Simon Despres (PIT) Alexei Bereglazov (CAR) Eric Staal (SJ) Joel Eriksson Ek (DAL)
FA: Tobias Tornkvist (STL)
out
TRADE: Ivan Morozov (BUF) Oscar Back (BUF) Guillaume Richard (BUF) Kailer Yamamoto (PHI) Artyom Grushnikov (CAR) Robbie Stucker (DAL)
FA: Pavel Buchnevich (TB) Jack Perbix (DAL now PIT) Zach Sanford(STL) Duncan Siemens (PIT) Tristan Jarry (CBJ) John Moore (NYI)
Colorado is going for it. After 3 years of personal adjustments GM Josh Lewis is swinging to make the playoffs, adding EHEC legend Eric Staal as well as 3 more quality pieces. While the top additions aren't young anymore, it is certain they will add quality to a lineup destined for the western conference meat grinder.
Strength: Prospects in bulk. Depending how serious the goal of playoffs is, shedding prospects in order to supplement the team shouldn't be off the table. With Staal and Radulov being the only players over 35, the right addition could set Colorado's current core up now and into the future.
Weakness: Scoring. The Avs scored the 5th least goals last year. If they want to make the dance, they will need more than just Staal and Radulov to kick in. Contributions from Slaf, Eriksson Ek and the bottom 6 are a must.
Need more from: Owen Power. With Seider out, fans will look to the 2021 1st overall pick to shoulder much of the load. If he can step up and develop, the Avs will have a strong top 3 D to push them across the finish line.
Goalies: Oettinger is poised to have a career year and Colorado will need it. Calle Clang looked sharp with 2 preseason shutouts, he'll be the backup.
Will the new center additions improve the overall faceoff win rate?
Can the team cut down on their 1000+ giveaways?
How fast will Slafkovsky establish himself in the top 6?
How will the D corps hold up with Seider out for a quarter of the season?
Can they improve on their 11-25-0-5 road record?
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COLUMBUS
25-47-3-7 60 pts 2022/23 league finish: 30th. 5th in Southeast. Last made playoffs in 2021/22 lost in ECQF
201 GF 271 GA PP 17.08% PK 82.11%
30th 26th 22nd 14th
Last Season Leaders
G - Oliver Wahlstron (26)
A - Tuevo Teravainen (29)
P - Alex Newhook/Luke Kunin (47)
PIM - Grigori Denisenko (114)
HG - Dylan McIlrath (298)
TK - Dylan McIlrath (261)
GV - Alex Newhook (106)
SB - Shea Theodore (91)
ITG - Shea Theodore (26.2)
FO% - Trevor Zegras (50.4)
W - Zach Fucale (15)
in
FA: Tristan Jarry (COL)
out
FA: Zach Fucale (NJ) Noah Juulsen (CHI) Logan Brown (EDM)
It's been a quiet start to the new GM's tenure, with the focus on resigning his many RFAs. A fresh perspective from the new coaching staff might not be enough to turn around their 9-28-2-2 road record. With the leagues worst offence the young core will have to take dramatic steps if Columbus wants to stay out of the basement.
Strength: Youth players. An abundance of good young players creates a good problem. With some smart contracts and a good trade or two, they could set their core up for years to come.
Weakness: Scoring. League worst offence last season returns with minimal changes. It is a young core, improvement is possible. A new GM should help with change in tactics.
Need more from: Goalies. With a combined 67 wins and 114 losses both goalies will need to produce career seasons at minimum if Columbus is to make the playoffs.
Goalies: Tristan Jarry replaces Zach Fucale as the expected starting goalie in a fairly lateral move.
Can Zegras break out as a 1st line player?
How long until GM wants change?
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DALLAS
47-28-2-5 101 pts 2022/23 league finish: 5th. 3rd in Pacific. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCQF
292 GF 245 GA PP 22.58% PK 80%
2nd 14th 2nd 24th
Last Season Leaders
G - Arthur Kaliyev (36)
A - Mikhail Grigorenko (37)
P - Mikhail Grigorenko (71)
PIM - Evgeni Malkin (94)
HG - Philip Broberg (244)
TK - Joel Armia (173)
GV - Cristoval Nieves (153)
SB - Philip Broberg (82)
ITG - Jakob Chychrun (26.8)
FO% - Mikhail Grigorenko (61.9)
W - Dan Vladar (36)
in
TRADE: Alex Galchenyuk (CHI) Robbie Stucker (COL) Isaiah Saville (COL)
FA: Ilya Konovalov (NYI) Dillon Heatherington (TB) David Elsner (CHI) Brayden Schenn (PIT)
out
TRADE: Joel Eriksson Ek (COL) Mikko Rantanen (PHI)
FA: David Gustafsson (SJ) Filip Hallander (STL) Alex Dergachyov (CHI)
After a disappointing first round exit the Stars shifted gears trading away under preforming winger Mikko Rantanen for what amounted to Nate Danielson and half of Alex Galchenyuk. Evgeni Malkin will return for at least one more year to attempt a repeat as the league's top offence.
Strength: Offensive depth. The Stars play a heavy offence game, highlighted by a tremendous powerplay. If Galchenyuk is the upgrade he is meant to be, they could be the most dangerous team in the league.
Weakness: Team defence. It's tough to win a cup with average defence. New free agent signing may help or hinder. Growth in Schneider's game should help here. Sorting out the penalty kill might be enough.
Need more from: Noel Gunler. Starting his third full season the pressure is on for at least 15+ goals.
Goalies: Vladar and Gustavsson return to the Dallas crease.
Will the new D men be enough to improve a league average defence?
Can Gustavsson improve his record?
Does Malkin start to vap?
Can they figure out their penalty kill?
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2023/24 EHEC Season Preview
Moderator: SharksGM
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Sharp Stick Bisons
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Re: 2023/24 EHEC Season Preview
DETROIT
44-30-1-7 96 pts 2022/23 league finish: 11th. 5th in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCQF
262 GF 238 GA PP% 22.77 PK% 78.14
12th 11th 1st 27th
Last Season Leaders
G - William Eklund (30)
A - Patrick Kane (44)
P - Patrick Kane (72)
PIM - Damir Galin (96)
HG - Niklas Jensen (250)
TK - Niklas Jensen (198)
GV - Zach L'Heureux (163)
SB - Erik Johnson (86)
ITG - Dmitry Kulikov (24)
FO% - Adrain Kempe (50.7)
W - Nico Daws (27)
in
TRADE: Jordan Eberle (EDM) Drew Stafford (EDM)
FA: Dante Fabbro (EDM) Akil Thomas (NJ) Thomas Vanelli (MTL)
out
TRADE: Nail Yakupov (EDM) Colten Ellis (EDM)
FA: Brent Burns (STL) Tyler Biggs (CGY) Damir Galin (WSH) Guillaume Latendresse (CHI) Dalton Smith (TB) Brian Boyle (RET?) Anton Volchenkov (RET?)
After a disappointing sweep in last years playoffs, GM Kevin Smith has had a busy offseason. Reworking his top 6 by sending Yakupov to Edmonton for 2 centers in Eberle and Stafford. Improvement 5 v 5 and continued success on the powerplay will be key. With Kempe and Eklund needing new contracts and multiple vet's expiring, this could be a make it or break it year. Could a retool or more be on the horizon in Detroit?
Strength: Shooting. 10 opening night players with 80+ shooting should keep the offence flowing. Couple this with 5 90+ playmakers and you should get a potent offence.
Weakness: Size on defence. All expected top 4 d men have hitting in the 70s. This could create challenges playing in the Central.
Need more from: Coaching staff. The talent is there. In the Central quality tactics will make the difference.
Goalies: At a combined age of 43.1, Detroit will look to the fountain of youth to backstop them. Nico Dawes returns with rookie Cameron Whitehead getting the chance to backup.
Can faceoffs be improved?
Are they big enough?
Can the powerplay success be repeated?
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EDMONTON
38-31-4-9 89 pts 2022/23 league finish: 16th. 1st in Northwest. Last made playoffs in 2021/22 lost in WCQF
256 GF 246 GA PP 17.19% PK 83.63%
15th 16th 21st 9th
Last Season Leaders
G - Rick Nash (38)
A - Rick Nash/Drew Stafford (40)
P - Rick Nash (78)
PIM - Rick Nash (40)
HG - Dion Phaneuf (238)
TK - Rick Nash (207)
GV - Owen Tippett (158)
SB - Gabriel Syvestre (86)
ITG - Matthew Spencer (22.7)
FO% - Peter Holland (63.4)
W - Jhonas Enroth (27)
in
TRADE: Nail Yakupov (DET) Colten Ellis (DET) Thomas Novak (NYR) Matthew Poitras (NYR) Serron Noel (LA) Peyton Krebs (LA) Xavier Bernard (TOR) Nikita Tryamkin (FLA) Lukas Dostal (FLA)
FA: David Krejci (SJ) Leon Draisaitl (NJ) Marc McNulty (MTL)
out
TRADE: Jordan Eberle (DET) Drew Stafford (DET) Matthew Tkachuk (NYR) Milan Lucic (LA) Jordan Schmaltz (TOR) Braydon Coburn (MTL) Dion Phaneuf (FLA)
FA: Rick Nash (ANA) Bobby Ryan (CHI) Jay Bouwmeester (PHI)
After a busy offseason a new era has begun in Edmonton. Having missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016/17 the interim GM has aggresively retooled. The new roster being significantly younger than last years Northwest Divison champs shouldn't stop them from challenging for the repeat.
Strength: Roster versatility. If things start to go tits up, this retool can shift to a rebuild easily.
Weakness: Powerplay. New roster, new GM, new opportunity. It's hard to win without a good powerplay.
Need more from: Jonas Enroth. The Oil will rely a lot of their goaltending this season. If Enroth falters things could get ugly.
Goalies: Look for Lukas Dostal to jump at the opportunity after being traded from Florida. He will battle Enroth for starts.
Can new roster improve the powerplay?
How long will it take for the core to mesh?
Is the defence/goaltending good enough?
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FLORIDA
39-26-7-10 95 pts 2022/23 league finish: 14th. 2nd in Southeast. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECF
275 GF 253 GA PP 20.6% PK 84.19%
7th 18th 8th 8th
Last Season Leaders
G - Connor Brickley (41)
A - Quinn Hughes (48)
P - Connor Brickley (79)
PIM - Connor Brickley/Nikita Tryamkin (82)
HG - Darnell Nurse (213)
TK - Nikita Tryamkin (208)
GV - Matt Duchene (117)
SB - Quinn Hughes (91)
ITG - Ivan Provorov (26.6)
FO% - Corey Perry (62.8)
W - Simyon Varlamov (24)
in
TRADE: Dion Phaneuf (EDM)
FA: Thatcher Demko (BOS) Damon Severson (NYR)
out
TRADE: Nikita Tryamkin (EDM) Lukas Dostal (EDM)
FA: Nick Backstrom (ANA) Brock Nelson (BUF) Keegan Kolesar (SJ) Andrew Ladd (RET?) Magnus Hellberg (MTL)
A game 7 defeat in the conference final has Florida shuffling the deck hoping an increase in defensive skill can offset the loses up front. With Washington taking a step back it will likely be a battle between Florida and Tampa Bay for the division title.
Strength: D core. 23+ million should buy something good. If all goes well this could be one of the best groups in the league.
Weakness: Bottom 6. Florida has a top heavy offence after shifting resources to defence. Cats fans hope the coach's plan will offset the deficiencies.
Need more from: Cap structure. With a little under 2m in projected cap space, GM will have to get creative if he wants to bolster the bottom of his lineup.
Goalies: Experienced Thatcher Demko arrives to supplement longtime Southeast division starter Simeon Varlamov.
Is Phaneuf enough to fix defensive woes?
Who will replace goals after losing Nelson, Backstrom?
Will an unnamed rookie fight their way into a role?
-------------------------------------
LOS ANGELES
46-21-2-13 107 pts 2022/23 league finish: 3rd. 1st in Pacific. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in Cup Final
273 GF 231 GA PP 12.57% PK 77.25%
8th 7th 30th 27th
Last Season Leaders
G - Filip Zadina (39)
A - Petter Granberg (42)
P - Filip Zadina (73)
PIM - Ryan Graves (130)
HG - Max Gildon (250)
TK - Ryan Graves (199)
GV - Riley Tufte (149)
SB - Max Gildon (87)
ITG - Timothy Liljegren (25.5)
FO% - Freddy Gauthier (63.5)
W - Jesper Eliasson (21)
in
TRADE: Milan Lucic trade (EDM)
FA: Ondrej Pavelec (EDM) Linus Karlsson (COL) Artyom Minulin FA (NJ) Mark McNeill (OTT) Nikita Korostelev (NSH) Matt McNeely (NJ) Shane Eiserman (STL) Connor Rankin (BUF)
out
TRADE: Payton Krebs (EDM) Serron Noel (EDM)
FA: Jared McCann (BUF) Ryan Graves (STL) Nicolas Meloche (STL) Jesper Eliasson (NYI) Steve Mason (CAR)
LA has been a juggernaut since the league began having never missed the playoffs, however, they're still to find the path to the promise land. Their best chance so far was last year, losing in the finals to Tampa Bay. GM Hugo hopes his move to bring in veteran Milan Lucic can put the team over the top. This is a team to watch out for, especially if their special teams are figured out.
Strength: Roster construction. LA features star players as well as competant depth on foward and defence.
Weakness: Special teams. If they could boost them to only league average it would make a world of difference.
Need more from: Coaching staff. The roster is there, it will be up to the GM to find out how to get what's needed from it.
Goalies: EHEC vet Ondrej Pavelec joins rookie Drew Commesso as the new duo in Kings sweaters.
Will Lucic be enough to get them over the top?
Is Pavelec a starting goalie on a cup winning team?
Can the special teams be improved from among the league worst?
------------------------------------------------
MINNESOTA
27-45-5-5 64 pts 2022/23 league finish: 26th. 4th in Northwest. Last made playoffs in 2009/10 lost in WCQF
230 GF 279 GA PP% 17.76 PK% 76.51
20th 28th 17th 29th
Last Season Leaders
G - Alexis Lafrenière (30)
A - Nico Hishier (35)
P - Nico Hishier (62)
PIM - Anothony Beauvillier (104)
HG - Noah Dobson (195)
TK - Noah Dobson (177)
GV - Anothony Beauvillier (126)
SB - Noah Dobson/Alexei Marchenko (80)
ITG - Alexei Marchenko (24.5)
FO% - Alex Turcotte (55.8)
W - Calvin Pickard (14)
in
TRADE: Cam Dineen (MTL)
out
FA: Jay O'Brien (CAR)
A quiet offseason in Minnesota leaves something to be desired on the defensive side of the puck. The roster with the 3rd worst goal allowed returns without a proper replacement for departed starter Calvin Pickard. The roster will need big steps forward from their young stars if they're to challenge for a playoff spot. Another patient year should be benefical to the long term success of the Wild.
Strength: Star to build around. Alexis Lafrenière is an elite young piece that gives the team a pillar to center their future around. Players like him don't grow on trees and would be valuable to any team in the league. Whatever direction they choose, Alexis will define this era of Wild hockey.
Weakness: Experience. As to be expected with a young core growing pains will certainly be felt.
Need more from: Alexis Lafrenière. He took a lateral step last year. Going into his 4th season it's time for him to establish himself as an elite forward.
Goalies: Youngsters Dylan Wells and Joel Blomqvist battle for experience.
Will Lafrenière break out?
How well do the young goalies handle it?
Could low morale hurt overall team development?
------------------------------------------------------------
MONTREAL
50-17-4-11 115 pts 2022/23 league finish: 1st. 1st in Northeast. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECQF
300 GF 211 GA PP% 20.41 PK% 81.52
1st T-1st 10th 18th
Last Season Leaders
G - Alex Ovechkin (36)
A - Shea Weber (44)
P - Alex Ovechkin (72)
PIM - Kenny Ryan (84)
HG - Shea Weber (234)
TK - Pierre-Olivier Joseph (214)
GV - Klim Kostin (173)
SB - Shea Weber (98)
ITG - Thomas Vanelli (26.1)
FO% - Kenny Ryan (63.1)
W - Kari Lehtonen (38)
in
TRADE: Braydon Coburn (EDM) Devante Stephens (CHI) Oliver Suni (PIT)
FA: Joe Morrow (CHI) Magnus Hellberg (FLA)
out
TRADE: Mike Richards (PIT) Michael Downing (CHI) Cam Dineen (MIN)
FA: Thomas Vannelli (MTL) Kenny Ryan (SJ) Marc McNulty (EDM) Kari Lehtonen (RET?)
Last season's Presidents Trophy winners lost some talent to the cap in exchange for futures, however, the core remains intact. It will be tough for them to return as the league's best offence and defence.
Strength: Roster mostly constructed by Vik. Legend has it this team was once run by the greatest EHM manager this side of Timbuktu. Until his core is gone the Habs will have a chance.
Weakness: Penalty kill. In an offence based league it's hard to get away with letting the other team have opportunities. Montreal got away with it last year, that will be tough to repeat.
Need more from: Kirby Dach. With Richards gone to Pits Dach is the obvious choice of replacement. Big shoes to fill.
Goalies: Vet Magnus Hellberg was brought in to east Dustin Wolf into a more serious position.
Will P-O Joseph fluorish with more ice-time?
How much longer will we see Ovechkin and Weber?
Can Boldy breakout?
Is there still enough here to win the Northeast?
---------------------------------------------
NASHVILLE
42-26-5-9 98 pts 2022/23 league finish: 9th. 3rd in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCQF
263 GF 244 GA PP% 20.69 PK% 80.16
11th 13th 7th 23rd
Last Season Leaders
G - Tyler Seguin (39)
A - Tyler Seguin (40)
P - Tyler Seguin (79)
PIM - Jacob Middleton (78)
HG - Zach Bogosian (230)
TK - Griffin Mendel (187)
GV - Nikita Filatov (138)
SB - Zach Bogosian (100)
ITG - Zach Bogosian (23.5)
FO% - Tyler Seguin (55.4)
W - Jon Bernier/Alex Nedeljkovic (21)
in
TRADE: Brian Lee (OTT)
FA: David Perron (NYR) Ryan Stoa (SJ) Ivan Muranov (CAR)
out
TRADE: Jacob Middleton (TOR)
FA: Nikita Filatov (TOR) Ivan Telegin (BOS) Nikita Korostelev (LA) Mikhail Berdin (DAL)
It was a calculated offseason in the music city with an obvious upgrade headling the acquisitions. The move to effectively swap Middleton for Lee shows GM Lubos is serious about the upcoming season. Complimenting the trade with smart depth free agents means Nashville has taken a significant step forward as a threat in the Central.
Strength: Top 9. The top 3 lines are filled with speeds, skill and potential scoring options including Tyler Seguin, one of the league's top forwards.
Weakness: Leadership. The jury is out on whether this means anything. This article is going to say it does. Nashville seems low on it, could hurt in the post season.
Need more from: Pavel Zacha. Outside of takeaways, last season was underwhelming. At 4.1m Nashville needs more from the big Czech.
Goalies: Nedeljkovic and Bernier were an effective tandem last season. They return again.
questions
Who will win faceoffs on the pk?
Will Lambos or Whynot break out?
Can pk be fixed?
------------------------------------------------------
NEW JERSEY
28-41-4-9 69 pts 2022/23 league finish: 22nd. 5th in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2019/20 lost in ECQF
214 GF 253 GA PP% 19.83 PK% 81.29
27th 19th 12th 20th
Last Season Leaders
G - Mettias Tedenby (31)
A - Leon Draisaitl (37)
P - Mettias Tedenby (65)
PIM - Alex Burmistrov (264)
HG - Mettias Tedenby (186)
TK - Artyom Minulin (221)
GV - Roni Hirvonen (119)
SB - Cale Makar (85)
ITG - Cale Makar (25.8)
FO% - Joe Veleno (60.3)
W - M-A Fleury/Carter Hart (14)
in
TRADE: Drew Doughty (TOR) Cody Glass (STL)
FA: Blake Clarke (ANA) Alex Wennberg (STL) Lucas Carlsson (BUF) Jacob Larsson (BUF) Julius Honka (CGY) Zach Fucale (CBJ)
out
FA: Leon Draisaitl (EDM) Tom Kuehnhackl (ANA) Artyom Minulin (LA) Griffin Reinhart (ANA) Guillaume Brisebois (WPG) Marc-Andre Fleury (ANA) Rosti Klesla Jaden Schwartz
New Jersey lost one star in Leon Draisaitl only to acquire another in Drew Doughty. Interm GM Martin struck quickly getting Doughty from Toronto for only a 3rd round pick. The retool continued with a swath of depth pickups in an effort to bolster the lacklustre lineup. Jersey is going to need drastic changes to their offensive systems to improve on the 27th ranked goals for total.
Strength: Core is young. Outside of Burmistrov and Tedenby, which are good trade assets, Jersey's core is around 24 years old. With good contract management and quality draft selections they could establish themselves as a competitor in a few years.
Weakness: Consistency. Recent pickups Fucale and Glass look to boost a New Jersey lineup that has had issues showing up on a night to night basis.
Need more from: Joe Veleno. The departure of Draisaitl leaves a hole down the middle creating a huge opportunity for Veleno to establish himself. Anything less than 40 pts is disappointing.
Goalies: Fleury and Hart return with hopes of a better campaign.
Can Burmistrov keep the penalties down?
Will Shane Wright make the show?
Are Glass and McMichael ready to earn top 6 spots?
-------------------------------------------------------------------
New York Islanders
32-40-0-10 74 pts 2022/23 league finish: 17th. 4th in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2017/18 lost in ECQF
227 GF 237 GA PP% 20.80 PK% 84.44
22nd 21st 5th 7th
Last Season Leaders
G - Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson (41)
A - German Rubtsov (40)
P - German Rubtsov (66)
PIM - Adam Lowry (87)
HG - Oscar Klefbom (212)
TK - Patrik Nemeth (163)
GV - Marco Rossi (113)
SB - Oscar Klefbom (89)
ITG - Zach Werenski (27.3)
FO% - Cole Cassels (56.8)
W - Jesper Wallstedt (21)
in
FA: Carl Sneep (TB) John Moore (COL) Chris Gibson (ANA) Jesper Eliasson (LA)
out
FA: Pierre Engvall (NYR) Cole Cassels (OTT) Ethan Bear (PHI) Mattias Backman (CGY) Ilya Konovalov (DAL)
Minor adjustments in Long Island see the addition of a couple new defenceman. Without a significant number of rookies one could wonder how the Isles expect to improve enough earn the extra 10-15 points needed for a playoff birth. Much like the Islanders of the NHL, the EHEC Isles will rely on their goaltender.
Strength: Special teams. If they can keep powerplay and penalty kill in the top 10 again this season it will lessen the jump needed in 5v5 play.
Weakness: Goal scoring. Featuring only seven 10 goal scorers last season the Islanders offence will need improved contributions from not only the bottom 6 but all 7 defenders.
Need more from: Cap structure. With numerous big names going into their contract year fans are left wondering just how much different the Isles need to look in order to be a serious competitor.
Goalies: Youngster Jesper Wallstedt is already among the league's elite. The Isles will rely on him heavily if they're to do any damage.
Can they improve 5v5 play?
Will depth sort their shit out?
Can Wallstedt repeat a top league performance?
-----------------------------------------------------------
NEW YORK RANGERS
45-28-3-6 99 pts 2022/23 league finish: 8th. 2nd in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECQF
256 GF 229 GA PP% 15.46 PK% 81.82
15th 5th 25th 16th
Last Season Leaders
G - Jonathan Tavares (29)
A - Jacob Trouba/Thomas Novak (36)
P - Jonathan Tavares/Thomas Novak (57)
PIM - Dougie Hamilton (101)
HG - Michael Dal Colle (271)
TK - Jared Hauf (211)
GV - Michael Dal Colle (125)
SB - Jacob Trouba (119)
ITG - Jacob Trouba (26)
FO% - Luca Hischier (62.9)
W - Jacob Markstrom (37)
in
TRADE: Val Nichushkin (CHI) Matt Tkachuk (EDM) Joel Farabee (CAR)
FA: Brayden Point (OTT) Carter Ashton (WPG) Pierre Engvall (NYI) Daniel Krejci (CHI) Paul Ranger (ANA) Yann Sauve (SJ)
out
TRADE: Thomas Novak (EDM) Brandon Perlini (CAR)
FA: Zach Kassian (CAR) David Perron (NSH) Luca Hischier (TB) Kyle Turris (TOR) Saku Salminen (BUF) Tuomo Ruutu (RET?)
In typical New York fashion the Rags have tried their best to be front and center this offseason with the massive acquisitions of Val Nichushkin and Matt Tkachuk. In order to facilitate the move their overall depth has suffered and question remain. With only one year on Tkachuks contract how much pressure will there be for success this season?
Strength: Elite top 6. Both lines could be a 1st line upgrade on many teams. Barring catastophy there should be no issues improving what was a league average offence.
Weakness: Physicality. Outside of key contributors many players have lower hitting. Especially in the bottom 6.
need more from: Jack Eichel. He's got the supporting cast, it's time for Eichel to have his best scoring season.
Goalies: Markstrom returns to shoulder the load with rookie Kolosov in tow.
Can rookie Marco Kaspar step in to a productive everyday position?
Will the top heavy approach pay off?
Can cap be found to improve D?
How much better can the powerplay be?
-------------------------------------------------
44-30-1-7 96 pts 2022/23 league finish: 11th. 5th in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCQF
262 GF 238 GA PP% 22.77 PK% 78.14
12th 11th 1st 27th
Last Season Leaders
G - William Eklund (30)
A - Patrick Kane (44)
P - Patrick Kane (72)
PIM - Damir Galin (96)
HG - Niklas Jensen (250)
TK - Niklas Jensen (198)
GV - Zach L'Heureux (163)
SB - Erik Johnson (86)
ITG - Dmitry Kulikov (24)
FO% - Adrain Kempe (50.7)
W - Nico Daws (27)
in
TRADE: Jordan Eberle (EDM) Drew Stafford (EDM)
FA: Dante Fabbro (EDM) Akil Thomas (NJ) Thomas Vanelli (MTL)
out
TRADE: Nail Yakupov (EDM) Colten Ellis (EDM)
FA: Brent Burns (STL) Tyler Biggs (CGY) Damir Galin (WSH) Guillaume Latendresse (CHI) Dalton Smith (TB) Brian Boyle (RET?) Anton Volchenkov (RET?)
After a disappointing sweep in last years playoffs, GM Kevin Smith has had a busy offseason. Reworking his top 6 by sending Yakupov to Edmonton for 2 centers in Eberle and Stafford. Improvement 5 v 5 and continued success on the powerplay will be key. With Kempe and Eklund needing new contracts and multiple vet's expiring, this could be a make it or break it year. Could a retool or more be on the horizon in Detroit?
Strength: Shooting. 10 opening night players with 80+ shooting should keep the offence flowing. Couple this with 5 90+ playmakers and you should get a potent offence.
Weakness: Size on defence. All expected top 4 d men have hitting in the 70s. This could create challenges playing in the Central.
Need more from: Coaching staff. The talent is there. In the Central quality tactics will make the difference.
Goalies: At a combined age of 43.1, Detroit will look to the fountain of youth to backstop them. Nico Dawes returns with rookie Cameron Whitehead getting the chance to backup.
Can faceoffs be improved?
Are they big enough?
Can the powerplay success be repeated?
---------------------------------------------
EDMONTON
38-31-4-9 89 pts 2022/23 league finish: 16th. 1st in Northwest. Last made playoffs in 2021/22 lost in WCQF
256 GF 246 GA PP 17.19% PK 83.63%
15th 16th 21st 9th
Last Season Leaders
G - Rick Nash (38)
A - Rick Nash/Drew Stafford (40)
P - Rick Nash (78)
PIM - Rick Nash (40)
HG - Dion Phaneuf (238)
TK - Rick Nash (207)
GV - Owen Tippett (158)
SB - Gabriel Syvestre (86)
ITG - Matthew Spencer (22.7)
FO% - Peter Holland (63.4)
W - Jhonas Enroth (27)
in
TRADE: Nail Yakupov (DET) Colten Ellis (DET) Thomas Novak (NYR) Matthew Poitras (NYR) Serron Noel (LA) Peyton Krebs (LA) Xavier Bernard (TOR) Nikita Tryamkin (FLA) Lukas Dostal (FLA)
FA: David Krejci (SJ) Leon Draisaitl (NJ) Marc McNulty (MTL)
out
TRADE: Jordan Eberle (DET) Drew Stafford (DET) Matthew Tkachuk (NYR) Milan Lucic (LA) Jordan Schmaltz (TOR) Braydon Coburn (MTL) Dion Phaneuf (FLA)
FA: Rick Nash (ANA) Bobby Ryan (CHI) Jay Bouwmeester (PHI)
After a busy offseason a new era has begun in Edmonton. Having missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016/17 the interim GM has aggresively retooled. The new roster being significantly younger than last years Northwest Divison champs shouldn't stop them from challenging for the repeat.
Strength: Roster versatility. If things start to go tits up, this retool can shift to a rebuild easily.
Weakness: Powerplay. New roster, new GM, new opportunity. It's hard to win without a good powerplay.
Need more from: Jonas Enroth. The Oil will rely a lot of their goaltending this season. If Enroth falters things could get ugly.
Goalies: Look for Lukas Dostal to jump at the opportunity after being traded from Florida. He will battle Enroth for starts.
Can new roster improve the powerplay?
How long will it take for the core to mesh?
Is the defence/goaltending good enough?
------------------------------------------------
FLORIDA
39-26-7-10 95 pts 2022/23 league finish: 14th. 2nd in Southeast. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECF
275 GF 253 GA PP 20.6% PK 84.19%
7th 18th 8th 8th
Last Season Leaders
G - Connor Brickley (41)
A - Quinn Hughes (48)
P - Connor Brickley (79)
PIM - Connor Brickley/Nikita Tryamkin (82)
HG - Darnell Nurse (213)
TK - Nikita Tryamkin (208)
GV - Matt Duchene (117)
SB - Quinn Hughes (91)
ITG - Ivan Provorov (26.6)
FO% - Corey Perry (62.8)
W - Simyon Varlamov (24)
in
TRADE: Dion Phaneuf (EDM)
FA: Thatcher Demko (BOS) Damon Severson (NYR)
out
TRADE: Nikita Tryamkin (EDM) Lukas Dostal (EDM)
FA: Nick Backstrom (ANA) Brock Nelson (BUF) Keegan Kolesar (SJ) Andrew Ladd (RET?) Magnus Hellberg (MTL)
A game 7 defeat in the conference final has Florida shuffling the deck hoping an increase in defensive skill can offset the loses up front. With Washington taking a step back it will likely be a battle between Florida and Tampa Bay for the division title.
Strength: D core. 23+ million should buy something good. If all goes well this could be one of the best groups in the league.
Weakness: Bottom 6. Florida has a top heavy offence after shifting resources to defence. Cats fans hope the coach's plan will offset the deficiencies.
Need more from: Cap structure. With a little under 2m in projected cap space, GM will have to get creative if he wants to bolster the bottom of his lineup.
Goalies: Experienced Thatcher Demko arrives to supplement longtime Southeast division starter Simeon Varlamov.
Is Phaneuf enough to fix defensive woes?
Who will replace goals after losing Nelson, Backstrom?
Will an unnamed rookie fight their way into a role?
-------------------------------------
LOS ANGELES
46-21-2-13 107 pts 2022/23 league finish: 3rd. 1st in Pacific. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in Cup Final
273 GF 231 GA PP 12.57% PK 77.25%
8th 7th 30th 27th
Last Season Leaders
G - Filip Zadina (39)
A - Petter Granberg (42)
P - Filip Zadina (73)
PIM - Ryan Graves (130)
HG - Max Gildon (250)
TK - Ryan Graves (199)
GV - Riley Tufte (149)
SB - Max Gildon (87)
ITG - Timothy Liljegren (25.5)
FO% - Freddy Gauthier (63.5)
W - Jesper Eliasson (21)
in
TRADE: Milan Lucic trade (EDM)
FA: Ondrej Pavelec (EDM) Linus Karlsson (COL) Artyom Minulin FA (NJ) Mark McNeill (OTT) Nikita Korostelev (NSH) Matt McNeely (NJ) Shane Eiserman (STL) Connor Rankin (BUF)
out
TRADE: Payton Krebs (EDM) Serron Noel (EDM)
FA: Jared McCann (BUF) Ryan Graves (STL) Nicolas Meloche (STL) Jesper Eliasson (NYI) Steve Mason (CAR)
LA has been a juggernaut since the league began having never missed the playoffs, however, they're still to find the path to the promise land. Their best chance so far was last year, losing in the finals to Tampa Bay. GM Hugo hopes his move to bring in veteran Milan Lucic can put the team over the top. This is a team to watch out for, especially if their special teams are figured out.
Strength: Roster construction. LA features star players as well as competant depth on foward and defence.
Weakness: Special teams. If they could boost them to only league average it would make a world of difference.
Need more from: Coaching staff. The roster is there, it will be up to the GM to find out how to get what's needed from it.
Goalies: EHEC vet Ondrej Pavelec joins rookie Drew Commesso as the new duo in Kings sweaters.
Will Lucic be enough to get them over the top?
Is Pavelec a starting goalie on a cup winning team?
Can the special teams be improved from among the league worst?
------------------------------------------------
MINNESOTA
27-45-5-5 64 pts 2022/23 league finish: 26th. 4th in Northwest. Last made playoffs in 2009/10 lost in WCQF
230 GF 279 GA PP% 17.76 PK% 76.51
20th 28th 17th 29th
Last Season Leaders
G - Alexis Lafrenière (30)
A - Nico Hishier (35)
P - Nico Hishier (62)
PIM - Anothony Beauvillier (104)
HG - Noah Dobson (195)
TK - Noah Dobson (177)
GV - Anothony Beauvillier (126)
SB - Noah Dobson/Alexei Marchenko (80)
ITG - Alexei Marchenko (24.5)
FO% - Alex Turcotte (55.8)
W - Calvin Pickard (14)
in
TRADE: Cam Dineen (MTL)
out
FA: Jay O'Brien (CAR)
A quiet offseason in Minnesota leaves something to be desired on the defensive side of the puck. The roster with the 3rd worst goal allowed returns without a proper replacement for departed starter Calvin Pickard. The roster will need big steps forward from their young stars if they're to challenge for a playoff spot. Another patient year should be benefical to the long term success of the Wild.
Strength: Star to build around. Alexis Lafrenière is an elite young piece that gives the team a pillar to center their future around. Players like him don't grow on trees and would be valuable to any team in the league. Whatever direction they choose, Alexis will define this era of Wild hockey.
Weakness: Experience. As to be expected with a young core growing pains will certainly be felt.
Need more from: Alexis Lafrenière. He took a lateral step last year. Going into his 4th season it's time for him to establish himself as an elite forward.
Goalies: Youngsters Dylan Wells and Joel Blomqvist battle for experience.
Will Lafrenière break out?
How well do the young goalies handle it?
Could low morale hurt overall team development?
------------------------------------------------------------
MONTREAL
50-17-4-11 115 pts 2022/23 league finish: 1st. 1st in Northeast. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECQF
300 GF 211 GA PP% 20.41 PK% 81.52
1st T-1st 10th 18th
Last Season Leaders
G - Alex Ovechkin (36)
A - Shea Weber (44)
P - Alex Ovechkin (72)
PIM - Kenny Ryan (84)
HG - Shea Weber (234)
TK - Pierre-Olivier Joseph (214)
GV - Klim Kostin (173)
SB - Shea Weber (98)
ITG - Thomas Vanelli (26.1)
FO% - Kenny Ryan (63.1)
W - Kari Lehtonen (38)
in
TRADE: Braydon Coburn (EDM) Devante Stephens (CHI) Oliver Suni (PIT)
FA: Joe Morrow (CHI) Magnus Hellberg (FLA)
out
TRADE: Mike Richards (PIT) Michael Downing (CHI) Cam Dineen (MIN)
FA: Thomas Vannelli (MTL) Kenny Ryan (SJ) Marc McNulty (EDM) Kari Lehtonen (RET?)
Last season's Presidents Trophy winners lost some talent to the cap in exchange for futures, however, the core remains intact. It will be tough for them to return as the league's best offence and defence.
Strength: Roster mostly constructed by Vik. Legend has it this team was once run by the greatest EHM manager this side of Timbuktu. Until his core is gone the Habs will have a chance.
Weakness: Penalty kill. In an offence based league it's hard to get away with letting the other team have opportunities. Montreal got away with it last year, that will be tough to repeat.
Need more from: Kirby Dach. With Richards gone to Pits Dach is the obvious choice of replacement. Big shoes to fill.
Goalies: Vet Magnus Hellberg was brought in to east Dustin Wolf into a more serious position.
Will P-O Joseph fluorish with more ice-time?
How much longer will we see Ovechkin and Weber?
Can Boldy breakout?
Is there still enough here to win the Northeast?
---------------------------------------------
NASHVILLE
42-26-5-9 98 pts 2022/23 league finish: 9th. 3rd in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCQF
263 GF 244 GA PP% 20.69 PK% 80.16
11th 13th 7th 23rd
Last Season Leaders
G - Tyler Seguin (39)
A - Tyler Seguin (40)
P - Tyler Seguin (79)
PIM - Jacob Middleton (78)
HG - Zach Bogosian (230)
TK - Griffin Mendel (187)
GV - Nikita Filatov (138)
SB - Zach Bogosian (100)
ITG - Zach Bogosian (23.5)
FO% - Tyler Seguin (55.4)
W - Jon Bernier/Alex Nedeljkovic (21)
in
TRADE: Brian Lee (OTT)
FA: David Perron (NYR) Ryan Stoa (SJ) Ivan Muranov (CAR)
out
TRADE: Jacob Middleton (TOR)
FA: Nikita Filatov (TOR) Ivan Telegin (BOS) Nikita Korostelev (LA) Mikhail Berdin (DAL)
It was a calculated offseason in the music city with an obvious upgrade headling the acquisitions. The move to effectively swap Middleton for Lee shows GM Lubos is serious about the upcoming season. Complimenting the trade with smart depth free agents means Nashville has taken a significant step forward as a threat in the Central.
Strength: Top 9. The top 3 lines are filled with speeds, skill and potential scoring options including Tyler Seguin, one of the league's top forwards.
Weakness: Leadership. The jury is out on whether this means anything. This article is going to say it does. Nashville seems low on it, could hurt in the post season.
Need more from: Pavel Zacha. Outside of takeaways, last season was underwhelming. At 4.1m Nashville needs more from the big Czech.
Goalies: Nedeljkovic and Bernier were an effective tandem last season. They return again.
questions
Who will win faceoffs on the pk?
Will Lambos or Whynot break out?
Can pk be fixed?
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NEW JERSEY
28-41-4-9 69 pts 2022/23 league finish: 22nd. 5th in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2019/20 lost in ECQF
214 GF 253 GA PP% 19.83 PK% 81.29
27th 19th 12th 20th
Last Season Leaders
G - Mettias Tedenby (31)
A - Leon Draisaitl (37)
P - Mettias Tedenby (65)
PIM - Alex Burmistrov (264)
HG - Mettias Tedenby (186)
TK - Artyom Minulin (221)
GV - Roni Hirvonen (119)
SB - Cale Makar (85)
ITG - Cale Makar (25.8)
FO% - Joe Veleno (60.3)
W - M-A Fleury/Carter Hart (14)
in
TRADE: Drew Doughty (TOR) Cody Glass (STL)
FA: Blake Clarke (ANA) Alex Wennberg (STL) Lucas Carlsson (BUF) Jacob Larsson (BUF) Julius Honka (CGY) Zach Fucale (CBJ)
out
FA: Leon Draisaitl (EDM) Tom Kuehnhackl (ANA) Artyom Minulin (LA) Griffin Reinhart (ANA) Guillaume Brisebois (WPG) Marc-Andre Fleury (ANA) Rosti Klesla Jaden Schwartz
New Jersey lost one star in Leon Draisaitl only to acquire another in Drew Doughty. Interm GM Martin struck quickly getting Doughty from Toronto for only a 3rd round pick. The retool continued with a swath of depth pickups in an effort to bolster the lacklustre lineup. Jersey is going to need drastic changes to their offensive systems to improve on the 27th ranked goals for total.
Strength: Core is young. Outside of Burmistrov and Tedenby, which are good trade assets, Jersey's core is around 24 years old. With good contract management and quality draft selections they could establish themselves as a competitor in a few years.
Weakness: Consistency. Recent pickups Fucale and Glass look to boost a New Jersey lineup that has had issues showing up on a night to night basis.
Need more from: Joe Veleno. The departure of Draisaitl leaves a hole down the middle creating a huge opportunity for Veleno to establish himself. Anything less than 40 pts is disappointing.
Goalies: Fleury and Hart return with hopes of a better campaign.
Can Burmistrov keep the penalties down?
Will Shane Wright make the show?
Are Glass and McMichael ready to earn top 6 spots?
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New York Islanders
32-40-0-10 74 pts 2022/23 league finish: 17th. 4th in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2017/18 lost in ECQF
227 GF 237 GA PP% 20.80 PK% 84.44
22nd 21st 5th 7th
Last Season Leaders
G - Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson (41)
A - German Rubtsov (40)
P - German Rubtsov (66)
PIM - Adam Lowry (87)
HG - Oscar Klefbom (212)
TK - Patrik Nemeth (163)
GV - Marco Rossi (113)
SB - Oscar Klefbom (89)
ITG - Zach Werenski (27.3)
FO% - Cole Cassels (56.8)
W - Jesper Wallstedt (21)
in
FA: Carl Sneep (TB) John Moore (COL) Chris Gibson (ANA) Jesper Eliasson (LA)
out
FA: Pierre Engvall (NYR) Cole Cassels (OTT) Ethan Bear (PHI) Mattias Backman (CGY) Ilya Konovalov (DAL)
Minor adjustments in Long Island see the addition of a couple new defenceman. Without a significant number of rookies one could wonder how the Isles expect to improve enough earn the extra 10-15 points needed for a playoff birth. Much like the Islanders of the NHL, the EHEC Isles will rely on their goaltender.
Strength: Special teams. If they can keep powerplay and penalty kill in the top 10 again this season it will lessen the jump needed in 5v5 play.
Weakness: Goal scoring. Featuring only seven 10 goal scorers last season the Islanders offence will need improved contributions from not only the bottom 6 but all 7 defenders.
Need more from: Cap structure. With numerous big names going into their contract year fans are left wondering just how much different the Isles need to look in order to be a serious competitor.
Goalies: Youngster Jesper Wallstedt is already among the league's elite. The Isles will rely on him heavily if they're to do any damage.
Can they improve 5v5 play?
Will depth sort their shit out?
Can Wallstedt repeat a top league performance?
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NEW YORK RANGERS
45-28-3-6 99 pts 2022/23 league finish: 8th. 2nd in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECQF
256 GF 229 GA PP% 15.46 PK% 81.82
15th 5th 25th 16th
Last Season Leaders
G - Jonathan Tavares (29)
A - Jacob Trouba/Thomas Novak (36)
P - Jonathan Tavares/Thomas Novak (57)
PIM - Dougie Hamilton (101)
HG - Michael Dal Colle (271)
TK - Jared Hauf (211)
GV - Michael Dal Colle (125)
SB - Jacob Trouba (119)
ITG - Jacob Trouba (26)
FO% - Luca Hischier (62.9)
W - Jacob Markstrom (37)
in
TRADE: Val Nichushkin (CHI) Matt Tkachuk (EDM) Joel Farabee (CAR)
FA: Brayden Point (OTT) Carter Ashton (WPG) Pierre Engvall (NYI) Daniel Krejci (CHI) Paul Ranger (ANA) Yann Sauve (SJ)
out
TRADE: Thomas Novak (EDM) Brandon Perlini (CAR)
FA: Zach Kassian (CAR) David Perron (NSH) Luca Hischier (TB) Kyle Turris (TOR) Saku Salminen (BUF) Tuomo Ruutu (RET?)
In typical New York fashion the Rags have tried their best to be front and center this offseason with the massive acquisitions of Val Nichushkin and Matt Tkachuk. In order to facilitate the move their overall depth has suffered and question remain. With only one year on Tkachuks contract how much pressure will there be for success this season?
Strength: Elite top 6. Both lines could be a 1st line upgrade on many teams. Barring catastophy there should be no issues improving what was a league average offence.
Weakness: Physicality. Outside of key contributors many players have lower hitting. Especially in the bottom 6.
need more from: Jack Eichel. He's got the supporting cast, it's time for Eichel to have his best scoring season.
Goalies: Markstrom returns to shoulder the load with rookie Kolosov in tow.
Can rookie Marco Kaspar step in to a productive everyday position?
Will the top heavy approach pay off?
Can cap be found to improve D?
How much better can the powerplay be?
-------------------------------------------------
-
Sharp Stick Bisons
- Posts: 161
- Joined: Wed Jul 19, 2023 2:22 am
Re: 2023/24 EHEC Season Preview
OTTAWA
44-31-2-5 95 pts 2022/23 league finish: 12th. 2nd in Northeast. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECQF
279 GF 228 GA PP% 14.19 PK% 81.32
5th T-4th 27th 19th
Last Season Leaders
G - Cody Hodgson (37)
A - Brian Lee/Noah Hanifin (39)
P - Dylan Strome (71)
PIM - Brayden Point (41)
HG - Libor Hájek (206)
TK - Libor Hájek (167)
GV - Cole Sillinger (137)
SB - Noah Hanifin (74)
ITG - Noah Hanifin (25.1)
FO% - Joel Colborne (60)
W - Devan Dubnyk (32)
in
FA: Tyrel Seaman (CHI) James Winkler (CGY) Cole Cassels (NYI) Johnathan MacLeod (CHI) Heikki Liedes (SJ) Chris Summers (NYI) Ben Wright (??) Eric Comrie (SJ)
out
TRADE: Brian Lee (NSH) Lukas Reichel (VAN)
FA: Brayden Point (NYR) Quinton Howden (CHI) Marc Staal (BUF) Marc McNeill (LA) Calvin Pickard (BOS)
After three straight 50 win seasons Ottawa took a step back last year finishing with only 44. The offseason has GM Marty shuffling the deck. Opting to trade Brian Lee in favour of giving minutes to trade deadline acquisition Brandon Gormley. With Montreal taking a step back the door is still very open in a weak Northeast division.
Strength: cap flexibility. Less than 10 EHEC quality players on the roster with contracts over 1m. This leaves room to get creative with mid season additions. Especially with four 1st round picks in the upcoming draft.
Weakness: powerplay. The team with McDavid shouldn't finish 27th. If they want to challenge this will need fixing.
Need more from: Anton Slepyshev. After a down season with 17 G/36 P and only 2 goals in the playoffs, Ottawa fans hope he can return to 30 goal form.
Goalies: Ottawa will lean on stalwart Devan Dubnyk while it appears Comrie beats Stolarz for the backup stop.
questions
What is to come with the cap space?
Can special teams be improved to at least average?
Will Slepyshev bounce back?
How much can Sillinger improve his totals?
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PHILLY
42-29-3-8 95 pts 2022/23 league finish: 13th. 3rd in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECSF
279 GF 250 GA PP% 18.56 PK% 79.25
T-4th 16th 14th 25th
Last Season Leaders
G - Steven Stamkos (35)
A - Sami Vatanen/Calle Jarnkrok (39)
P - Steven Stamkos (69)
PIM - Sami Vatanen (97)
HG - Mark Alt (243)
TK - David Fischer (216)
GV - Pierre-Marc Bouchard (115)
SB - Mark Alt (69)
ITG - Ryan Ellis (25.5)
FO% - Steven Stamkos (62.3)
W - Spencer Knight/Samu Perhonen (21)
in
TRADE: Mikko Rantanen (DAL) Kailer Yamamoto (COL)
FA: Kerby Rychel (CAR) Ethan Bear (NYI) Jay Bouwmeester (EDM) Anthony Duclair (NYI)
out
TRADE: Alex Radulov (COL) Mitch Vande Sompel (WSH) Elias Pettersson (WSH)
FA: Ryan Getzlaf (STL) Joe Pavelski (BUF) Pierre-Marc Bouchard David Backes
The Flyers got younger this offseason losing a variety of players born in the mid 80s. The moves keep the roster poised to continue competing beyond this season. With no moves to address a lackluster penalty kill, fans will look for new tactics early in the season.
Strength: core is locked up. Alt is the only core piece up for renewal, there will be no rush to sacrifice the future for a run if the stars aren't perfectly lined up.
Weakness: goals against. If Philly is to challenge they will need to improve their goal differential. Improvement on the pk could help.
Need more from: Mikko Rantanen. If Rantanen struggles to fit in on a new team again the Flyers may have to look to the market for secondary scoring.
Goalies: Spencer Knight tries to solidify is reputation as truly elite in what will likely be a 1A/1B combo with consistent Sami Perhonen.
Will Rychel continue to take penalties?
Can goalies step up as an elite crease combo?
How long will it take for Rantanen to settle in?
Can money be found to improve the d core?
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PITTSBURGH
46-27-3-6 101 pts 2022/23 league finish: 6th. 1st in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECQF
281 GF 236 GA PP% 20.77 PK% 85.81
3rd 9th 6th 2nd
Last Season Leaders
G - Cole Perfetti (40)
A - Andrei Svechnikov/Jack Hughes (40)
P - Cole Perfetti (78)
PIM - Samuel Morin (71)
HG - Adam Larsson (275)
TK - Alex Edler (208)
GV - Vasili Podkolzin (124)
SB - Seth Jones (118)
ITG - Adam Larsson (25.9)
FO% - Brent Gates (59.5)
W - Ben Bishop (41)
in
TRADE: Mike Richards (MTL) Jack Perbix (DAL)
FA: Duncan Siemens(COL)
out
TRADE: Mikko Koivu (BUF) Patrik Puistola (BUF) Simon Despres (COL) Oliver Suni (MTL)
FA: Brent Gates (TB) Brayden Schenn (DAL) Evgeny Grachev
Shrewd moves in Pittsburgh have the Penguins on the cusp. Finding a new home for Koivu has allowed GMTC to aggressively improve his team with the addition of Mike Richards. He should help offset the loss of their top two faceoff men. With one of the strongest rosters on paper in the East, the Pens undoubtedly have their sights set on a Cup.
Strength: roster construction. 1-2 center punch? check. Top defenceman? check. Top scoring winger? check. Top goalie? check. Role players stepping up when needed? Only time will tell if they have the stuff needed to bring it all home.
Weakness: overconfidence. It's easy to see this team winning the East. But winning the East is not winning the Cup. They will have to stay focused and not get complacent while facing weaker competition.
Need more from: Road record. 17-21-0-3 away from home last season isn't good enough for a Cup challenging team. They were elite at home though.
Goalies: Bishop will do most of the work with sophomore Sam Hlavaj looking to improve his numbers.
Will they suffer in the faceoff circle?
Can the pk continue to be among league best?
What happens if Bishop struggle or even goes down?
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SAN JOSE
44-23-3-12 103 pts 2022/23 league finish: 4th. 2nd in Pacific. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCSF
261 GF 211 GA PP% 18.53 PK% 85.59
13th t-1st 15th 3rd
Last Season Leaders
G - Vladimir Tarasenko (41)
A - Eric Staal (42)
P - Eric Staal (75)
PIM - Brady Tkachuk/Brent Seabrook (81)
HG - Eric Staal (224)
TK - Anze Kopitar (205)
GV - Ryan Stoa (189)
SB - Josh Jacobs (76)
ITG - Brent Seabrook (24.5)
FO% - Eric Staal (61.3)
W - Yaroslav Askarov (28)
in
FA: Ilya Kovalchuk (WPG) Kenny Ryan (MTL) Radek Faksa (WPG) Keegan Kolesar (FLA) David Gustafsson (DAL) Gustav Forsling (ARZ) Mikey DiPietro (NSH)
out
TRADE: Eric Staal (COL) David Krejci (EDM) Brent Seabrook (BUF) Ryan Stoa (NSH) Maxim Kitsyn (NJ) Erik Cernak (CHI) Yann Sauve (NYR) Thomas Hickey
After fourth straight semi final loss, San Jose finds themselves in damage control having lost considerable depth. Veterans Kovalchuk and Ryan will try to replace production from Eric Staal and David Krejci while Forsling steps into a hole left by the departure of Seabrook. San Jose may be in for a small decline if their new offence can't light the world on fire.
Strength: Top line. Three forwards with 90 or better average offence could form the best line in hockey. With proper coaching they should be able to improve their goals for.
Weakness: Depth on D. They're have to continue the quality team defence that had them tied for 1st in goals against. It may be difficult to work the dollars on a trade for help.
Need more from: Mattias Samuelsson. Losing Seabrook means big shoes to fill, Samuelsson is most obvious replacement. The Sharks will need a big step forward from the Swedish sounding American but he's capable.
Goalies: The net Nazi Yaro Askarov leads the charge with reliable can of soup Jack Campbell backing up.
Will changes up front bolster the powerplay?
Can goalies prop up defence?
How long can Pulkkinen continue to get his face mashed in fights?
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ST LOUIS
45-26-2-9 101 pts 2022/23 league finish: 6th 2nd in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCSF
268 GF 232 GA PP%20.50 PK% 83.44
9th 8th 9th 10th
Last Season Leaders
G - Jesse Puljujärvi (28)
A - Rasmus Dahlin (48)
P - Jesse Puljujärvi (68)
PIM - Cale Fleury (72)
HG - Mirco Mueller(227)
TK - Juuso Välimäki (210)
GV - Gregory Hofmann (141)
SB - Rasmus Dahlin (88)
ITG - Rasmus Dahlin (26.1)
FO% - Jimmy Lodge (61.9)
W - John Gibson (36)
in
FA: Derick Brassard (TOR) Jason Spezza (WSH) Brent Burns (DET) Ryan Graves (LA) Zach Sanford (COL) Ryan Getlzlaf (PHI) Nicolas Meloche (LA) Adam Brizgala (CAR)
out
TRADE: Cody Glass (NJ)
FA: Tobias Tornkvist (COL) Alex Wennberg (NJ) Matt McNeely (LA)
The Blue loaded up in free agency this year, signalling intentions to push for the Cup. A team with a roster geared for exceptional defensive play and depth scoring could cause problems for any team. Look out for these guys, they're contenders.
Strength: Defence. One of, if not, the best defensive cores in the league supplemented by elite netminder John Gibson.
Weakness: No elite scoring forward. Dahlin may be the best offensive D in the league but he won't be able to carry the offence indefinitely. The addition of an elite shooter could put them over the top.
Need more from: Roster. There are no holes in this lineup however they still seem lacking something to win it all. I really admire the defensive team in a sea of offence.
Goalies: Gibson may be the best goalie in the league, Brizagala has consistency questions.
Will Spezza be the shooter they're looking for?
Can they cut down on their 1000+ giveaways?
Is fourteen 10 goal scorers a repeatable feat?
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TAMPA BAY
42-29-2-9 95 pts 2022/23 league finish: 12th. 1st in Southeast. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 when they won the Cup.
254 GF 229 GA PP% 20.19 PK% 85.00
16th 5th 11th 4th
Last Season Leaders
G - Jonathan Toews (35)
A - Michael Frolik (46)
P - Michael Frolik (68)
PIM - Mirco Hoefflin (182)
HG - Colby Robak (305)
TK - Colby Robak (280)
GV - Jonathan Toews (118)
SB - Victor Hedman (64)
ITG - Cam Fowler (28.4)
FO% - Mirco Hoefflin (64.9)
W - Carey Price
in
TRADE: Brandon Carlo (CHI)
FA: Luca Hischier (NYR) Brent Gates (PIT) Dalton Smith (DET) Pavel Buchnevich (COL) Viktor Baldayev (CAR) Jared Cowen (EDM)
out
TRADE: Victor Hedman (ANA)
FA: Vlad Namestnikov (WPG) Marcus Foligno (CHI) Joachim Nermark (OTT) Logan Shaw (BUF) Carl Sneep (NYI) Dillon Heatherington (DAL) Peter Mueller
Tampa won the Cup then lost players to the cap, of course, it comes with the territory. GMGS has done a nice job directly filling the gaps with cheap options while keeping much of the core. With the full time return of Fowler don't expect much fall off here, Tampa could finish better than they did last season.
Strength: Defensive core. The Bolts are basically guaranteed to have a solid presence on the ice for 55 minutes a night. They're deep and they feature the best defenceman in the league.
Weakness: Stanley Cup hangover. It's usually a thing in real life and has only once been done in EHEC. Are you superstitious? This article is.
Need more from: Pavel Buchnevich. He was a bit of a liability in Colorado last year. If he wants to earn a regular spot improvement is needed.
Goalies: Old man Price returns and they roll the dice with inconsistent Bocharov again.
Can anyone beat them in the faceoff circle?
Are they consistent enough?
Will they ever make a 1st round pick again?
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TORONTO
35-34-1-12 83 pts 2022/23 league finish: 3rd in Northeast. Last made playoffs in 2018/19 lost in ECQF
232 GF 256 GA PP% 13.41 PK% 80.73
19th 21st 29th 21st
Last Season Leaders
G - Jeff Carter (37)
A - Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (39)
P - Jeff Carter (73)
PIM - Artem Anisimov (91)
HG - James Greenway (205)
TK - Patrik Laine (182)
GV - Patrik Laine (136)
SB - Drew Doughty (104)
ITG - Drew Doughty (26.5)
FO% - Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (61)
W - Taylor Gauthier (31)
in
TRADE: Jacob Middleton (NSH) Jordan Schmaltz (EDM)
FA: Nikita Filatov (NSH) Kyle Turris (NYR) Joonas Korpisalo (BUF)
out
TRADE: Drew Doughty (NJ) Xavier Bernard (EDM)
FA: Derick Brassard (STL) Eetu Luosarinen (CAR) Dylan Wruck (ANA)
Narrowly making the playoffs last season has led to a small retool. Sights remain set on playoff hockey but with Carter going into the final year of his contract and Luke Hughes needing a pay increase, Leafs fans wonder how different the team could look next season. If they're to make it they will need improvement on both ends of the puck as well as a new look for their special teams.
Strength: Centers. 3.5 excellent centermen are the foundation of the roster. The team will live and die by their performance.
Weakness: Special teams. A powerplay among league worst and a penalty kill not much better are not recipes for success. The coach will have to mix things up to find a solution with minimal roster changes.
Need more from: Taylor Gauthier. A workhorse last season, any regression will cripple Toronto's playoff hopes.
Goalies: Korpisalo looks to be an extra piece as Kirill Gerasimyuk has impressed at camp. Gauthier still projects to be the starter.
Will Carter be flipped, resigned or walk?
Is Middleton an upgrade on Doughty?
Can +/- be balanced out?
How much better can the powerplay get?
------------------------------------------------
VANCOUVER
26-47-2-7 61 pts 2022/23 league finish: 5th in Northwest. Last made playoffs in 2016/17 lost in WCQF
211 GF 265 GA PP% 17.73 PK% 82.35
28th 25th 18th 12th
Last Season Leaders
G - Nazem Kadri (32)
A - Aaron Ekblad (32)
P - Nazem Kadri (62)
PIM - Will Carier (113)
HG - K'Andre Miller (338)
TK - K'Andre Miller (223)
GV - Connor Chatham (125)
SB - Aaron Ekblad (104)
ITG - Aaron Ekblad (27.8)
FO% - Will Carrier (62.5)
W - Sebastien Cossa (18)
in
TRADE: Lukas Reichel (OTT)
out
TRADE: Ryan Kesler (BUF)
A very quiet offseason on the west coast leaves fans wondering about the future. At the draft GMJG opted to send his 2024 1st to Ottawa in exchange for what amounted to Axel Sandin Pellikka and Gracyn Sawchyn. The move bolsters an already intriguing prospect pool that features Mason McTavish, Pavel Mintyukov and Matvei Michkov. Along with Mercer and Miller they will soon have an elite M named team.
Strength: D core. Led by Ekblad they will provide steady presence for Cossa to hopefully carry them.
Weakness: Scoring. This team lacks a proper playmaker. It may be difficult to overcome 5v5 deficiency without consistent offensive threat.
Need more from: Filip Forsberg. Perennial 30+ goalscorer has had two straight seasons of decline. If he can't improve on his 12 goals last year that new contract might be a 7 year anchor.
Goalies: Cossa enters his third season ready to prove he's a better goalie than his previous numbers suggest. Vet Jake Allen looks to bounce back after a rough first season in Vancouver.
Will team defence improve enough?
Can 5v5 play be improved enough to get out of the basement?
How will they improve the powerplay?
Where does the M go in Sebastien Cossa?
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WASHINGTON
29-37-6-10 74 pts 2022/23 league finish: 19th 3rd in Southeast. Last made playoffs in
242 GF 264 GA PP% 17.36 PK% 80.70
17th 24th 20th 22nd
Last Season Leaders
G - Marian Gaborik (29)
A - Nathan Beaulieu (42)
P - Marian Gaborik (54)
PIM - Benoit-Olivier Groulx (128)
HG - Nathan Beaulieu (230)
TK - Ronald Knot (148)
GV - Jason Spezza (103)
SB - Nathan Beaulieu (93)
ITG - Miro Heiskanen (27.3)
FO% - Lias Andersson (50.2)
W - Andrei Vasilevski (14)
in
TRADE: Mitch Vande Sompel (PHI) Elias Pettersson (PHI)
FA: Damir Galin (DET) Chet Pickard (WPG) Jake Patterson
out
FA: Marian Gaborik(ANA) Jason Spezza (STL) Chris Calnan (CAR) Nathan Beaulieu (BUF) Ronald Knot (WPG) Braden Holtby (CHI)
FA review
A rebuild seems to be in motion the nations capital. 6 everyday players have moved on leaving the door open for the next generation of Capitals to earn their place. Eyes will be on teenager Logan Cooley who appears to have made the team out of camp. Caps fans look forward to seeing what he, Beniers and Quinn can do.
Strength: Prospects to build around. Lots of quality under the age of 25 gives a solid foundation for the future.
Weakness: Top end quality. Lots of ice time for the youngsters to develop mean less wins.
Need more from: Matthew Beniers. Going into his second season there will be lots of runway to show what he can do.
Goalies: Andrei Vasilevski and Chet Pickard form a respectable duo.
Can quality depth scoring be repeatable?
How many steps can the young core take?
Is Cooley good enough?
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WINNIPEG
43-28-5-6 97 pts 2022/23 league finish: 10th. 4th in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCQF
267 GF 246 GA PP% 21.57 PK% 82.86
10th 15th 3rd 11th
Last Season Leaders
G - Ilya Kovalchuk (40)
A - Jack Johnson (42)
P - Ilya Kovalchuk (77)
PIM - Evander Kane (102)
HG - Stephen Johns (237)
TK - Alex Pietrangelo (188)
GV - Radek Faksa (153)
SB - Jack Johnson (104)
ITG - Jack Johnson (28.1)
FO% - Evander Kane (55.9)
W - Chet Pickard (29)
in
TRADE: David Pastrnak (BUF) Jeremy Roy (BUF)
FA: Vlad Namestnikov (TB) Zemgus Girgensons (BUF) Guillaume Brisebois (NJ) Ronald Knot (WAS) Erik Karlsson (OTT)
out
FA: Ilya Kovalchuk (SJ) Logan Couture (CAR) Sam Gagner (CGY) Evander Kane (ANA) Carter Ashton (NYR) Max Pacioretty (CHI) Radek Faksa (SJ) Chet Pickard (WSH) Kevin Klein Dustin Byfuglien Jake Patterson
New GM MKB has left his mark on the Jets early, retooling the roster in an effort to continue competing despite losing many vets. With a lackluster center core and questionable goaltending they will need career seasons from numerous contributors if they are to challenge for a division title.
Strength: Defence. Led by Alex Pietrangelo they are decently deep. Acquisitions of Roy, Yandle and Knot are good.
Weakness: Goalies. A combined 39 games of EHEC experience between them. They will likely struggle to keep their heads above water. Perhaps one of them has made a deal with the devil we do know know about.
Need more from: Zemgus Girgensons. He has somehow found his way into a top 6 position.
Goalies: Nick Malik, son of legendary shootout expert Marek, and ex-London Knight Michael Guigovaz will stand between the pipes.
Can Pastrnak replace Kovalchuk?
Who will win the faceoffs?
Is the goaltending good enough?
-------------------------------------
44-31-2-5 95 pts 2022/23 league finish: 12th. 2nd in Northeast. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECQF
279 GF 228 GA PP% 14.19 PK% 81.32
5th T-4th 27th 19th
Last Season Leaders
G - Cody Hodgson (37)
A - Brian Lee/Noah Hanifin (39)
P - Dylan Strome (71)
PIM - Brayden Point (41)
HG - Libor Hájek (206)
TK - Libor Hájek (167)
GV - Cole Sillinger (137)
SB - Noah Hanifin (74)
ITG - Noah Hanifin (25.1)
FO% - Joel Colborne (60)
W - Devan Dubnyk (32)
in
FA: Tyrel Seaman (CHI) James Winkler (CGY) Cole Cassels (NYI) Johnathan MacLeod (CHI) Heikki Liedes (SJ) Chris Summers (NYI) Ben Wright (??) Eric Comrie (SJ)
out
TRADE: Brian Lee (NSH) Lukas Reichel (VAN)
FA: Brayden Point (NYR) Quinton Howden (CHI) Marc Staal (BUF) Marc McNeill (LA) Calvin Pickard (BOS)
After three straight 50 win seasons Ottawa took a step back last year finishing with only 44. The offseason has GM Marty shuffling the deck. Opting to trade Brian Lee in favour of giving minutes to trade deadline acquisition Brandon Gormley. With Montreal taking a step back the door is still very open in a weak Northeast division.
Strength: cap flexibility. Less than 10 EHEC quality players on the roster with contracts over 1m. This leaves room to get creative with mid season additions. Especially with four 1st round picks in the upcoming draft.
Weakness: powerplay. The team with McDavid shouldn't finish 27th. If they want to challenge this will need fixing.
Need more from: Anton Slepyshev. After a down season with 17 G/36 P and only 2 goals in the playoffs, Ottawa fans hope he can return to 30 goal form.
Goalies: Ottawa will lean on stalwart Devan Dubnyk while it appears Comrie beats Stolarz for the backup stop.
questions
What is to come with the cap space?
Can special teams be improved to at least average?
Will Slepyshev bounce back?
How much can Sillinger improve his totals?
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PHILLY
42-29-3-8 95 pts 2022/23 league finish: 13th. 3rd in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECSF
279 GF 250 GA PP% 18.56 PK% 79.25
T-4th 16th 14th 25th
Last Season Leaders
G - Steven Stamkos (35)
A - Sami Vatanen/Calle Jarnkrok (39)
P - Steven Stamkos (69)
PIM - Sami Vatanen (97)
HG - Mark Alt (243)
TK - David Fischer (216)
GV - Pierre-Marc Bouchard (115)
SB - Mark Alt (69)
ITG - Ryan Ellis (25.5)
FO% - Steven Stamkos (62.3)
W - Spencer Knight/Samu Perhonen (21)
in
TRADE: Mikko Rantanen (DAL) Kailer Yamamoto (COL)
FA: Kerby Rychel (CAR) Ethan Bear (NYI) Jay Bouwmeester (EDM) Anthony Duclair (NYI)
out
TRADE: Alex Radulov (COL) Mitch Vande Sompel (WSH) Elias Pettersson (WSH)
FA: Ryan Getzlaf (STL) Joe Pavelski (BUF) Pierre-Marc Bouchard David Backes
The Flyers got younger this offseason losing a variety of players born in the mid 80s. The moves keep the roster poised to continue competing beyond this season. With no moves to address a lackluster penalty kill, fans will look for new tactics early in the season.
Strength: core is locked up. Alt is the only core piece up for renewal, there will be no rush to sacrifice the future for a run if the stars aren't perfectly lined up.
Weakness: goals against. If Philly is to challenge they will need to improve their goal differential. Improvement on the pk could help.
Need more from: Mikko Rantanen. If Rantanen struggles to fit in on a new team again the Flyers may have to look to the market for secondary scoring.
Goalies: Spencer Knight tries to solidify is reputation as truly elite in what will likely be a 1A/1B combo with consistent Sami Perhonen.
Will Rychel continue to take penalties?
Can goalies step up as an elite crease combo?
How long will it take for Rantanen to settle in?
Can money be found to improve the d core?
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PITTSBURGH
46-27-3-6 101 pts 2022/23 league finish: 6th. 1st in Atlantic. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in ECQF
281 GF 236 GA PP% 20.77 PK% 85.81
3rd 9th 6th 2nd
Last Season Leaders
G - Cole Perfetti (40)
A - Andrei Svechnikov/Jack Hughes (40)
P - Cole Perfetti (78)
PIM - Samuel Morin (71)
HG - Adam Larsson (275)
TK - Alex Edler (208)
GV - Vasili Podkolzin (124)
SB - Seth Jones (118)
ITG - Adam Larsson (25.9)
FO% - Brent Gates (59.5)
W - Ben Bishop (41)
in
TRADE: Mike Richards (MTL) Jack Perbix (DAL)
FA: Duncan Siemens(COL)
out
TRADE: Mikko Koivu (BUF) Patrik Puistola (BUF) Simon Despres (COL) Oliver Suni (MTL)
FA: Brent Gates (TB) Brayden Schenn (DAL) Evgeny Grachev
Shrewd moves in Pittsburgh have the Penguins on the cusp. Finding a new home for Koivu has allowed GMTC to aggressively improve his team with the addition of Mike Richards. He should help offset the loss of their top two faceoff men. With one of the strongest rosters on paper in the East, the Pens undoubtedly have their sights set on a Cup.
Strength: roster construction. 1-2 center punch? check. Top defenceman? check. Top scoring winger? check. Top goalie? check. Role players stepping up when needed? Only time will tell if they have the stuff needed to bring it all home.
Weakness: overconfidence. It's easy to see this team winning the East. But winning the East is not winning the Cup. They will have to stay focused and not get complacent while facing weaker competition.
Need more from: Road record. 17-21-0-3 away from home last season isn't good enough for a Cup challenging team. They were elite at home though.
Goalies: Bishop will do most of the work with sophomore Sam Hlavaj looking to improve his numbers.
Will they suffer in the faceoff circle?
Can the pk continue to be among league best?
What happens if Bishop struggle or even goes down?
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SAN JOSE
44-23-3-12 103 pts 2022/23 league finish: 4th. 2nd in Pacific. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCSF
261 GF 211 GA PP% 18.53 PK% 85.59
13th t-1st 15th 3rd
Last Season Leaders
G - Vladimir Tarasenko (41)
A - Eric Staal (42)
P - Eric Staal (75)
PIM - Brady Tkachuk/Brent Seabrook (81)
HG - Eric Staal (224)
TK - Anze Kopitar (205)
GV - Ryan Stoa (189)
SB - Josh Jacobs (76)
ITG - Brent Seabrook (24.5)
FO% - Eric Staal (61.3)
W - Yaroslav Askarov (28)
in
FA: Ilya Kovalchuk (WPG) Kenny Ryan (MTL) Radek Faksa (WPG) Keegan Kolesar (FLA) David Gustafsson (DAL) Gustav Forsling (ARZ) Mikey DiPietro (NSH)
out
TRADE: Eric Staal (COL) David Krejci (EDM) Brent Seabrook (BUF) Ryan Stoa (NSH) Maxim Kitsyn (NJ) Erik Cernak (CHI) Yann Sauve (NYR) Thomas Hickey
After fourth straight semi final loss, San Jose finds themselves in damage control having lost considerable depth. Veterans Kovalchuk and Ryan will try to replace production from Eric Staal and David Krejci while Forsling steps into a hole left by the departure of Seabrook. San Jose may be in for a small decline if their new offence can't light the world on fire.
Strength: Top line. Three forwards with 90 or better average offence could form the best line in hockey. With proper coaching they should be able to improve their goals for.
Weakness: Depth on D. They're have to continue the quality team defence that had them tied for 1st in goals against. It may be difficult to work the dollars on a trade for help.
Need more from: Mattias Samuelsson. Losing Seabrook means big shoes to fill, Samuelsson is most obvious replacement. The Sharks will need a big step forward from the Swedish sounding American but he's capable.
Goalies: The net Nazi Yaro Askarov leads the charge with reliable can of soup Jack Campbell backing up.
Will changes up front bolster the powerplay?
Can goalies prop up defence?
How long can Pulkkinen continue to get his face mashed in fights?
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ST LOUIS
45-26-2-9 101 pts 2022/23 league finish: 6th 2nd in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCSF
268 GF 232 GA PP%20.50 PK% 83.44
9th 8th 9th 10th
Last Season Leaders
G - Jesse Puljujärvi (28)
A - Rasmus Dahlin (48)
P - Jesse Puljujärvi (68)
PIM - Cale Fleury (72)
HG - Mirco Mueller(227)
TK - Juuso Välimäki (210)
GV - Gregory Hofmann (141)
SB - Rasmus Dahlin (88)
ITG - Rasmus Dahlin (26.1)
FO% - Jimmy Lodge (61.9)
W - John Gibson (36)
in
FA: Derick Brassard (TOR) Jason Spezza (WSH) Brent Burns (DET) Ryan Graves (LA) Zach Sanford (COL) Ryan Getlzlaf (PHI) Nicolas Meloche (LA) Adam Brizgala (CAR)
out
TRADE: Cody Glass (NJ)
FA: Tobias Tornkvist (COL) Alex Wennberg (NJ) Matt McNeely (LA)
The Blue loaded up in free agency this year, signalling intentions to push for the Cup. A team with a roster geared for exceptional defensive play and depth scoring could cause problems for any team. Look out for these guys, they're contenders.
Strength: Defence. One of, if not, the best defensive cores in the league supplemented by elite netminder John Gibson.
Weakness: No elite scoring forward. Dahlin may be the best offensive D in the league but he won't be able to carry the offence indefinitely. The addition of an elite shooter could put them over the top.
Need more from: Roster. There are no holes in this lineup however they still seem lacking something to win it all. I really admire the defensive team in a sea of offence.
Goalies: Gibson may be the best goalie in the league, Brizagala has consistency questions.
Will Spezza be the shooter they're looking for?
Can they cut down on their 1000+ giveaways?
Is fourteen 10 goal scorers a repeatable feat?
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TAMPA BAY
42-29-2-9 95 pts 2022/23 league finish: 12th. 1st in Southeast. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 when they won the Cup.
254 GF 229 GA PP% 20.19 PK% 85.00
16th 5th 11th 4th
Last Season Leaders
G - Jonathan Toews (35)
A - Michael Frolik (46)
P - Michael Frolik (68)
PIM - Mirco Hoefflin (182)
HG - Colby Robak (305)
TK - Colby Robak (280)
GV - Jonathan Toews (118)
SB - Victor Hedman (64)
ITG - Cam Fowler (28.4)
FO% - Mirco Hoefflin (64.9)
W - Carey Price
in
TRADE: Brandon Carlo (CHI)
FA: Luca Hischier (NYR) Brent Gates (PIT) Dalton Smith (DET) Pavel Buchnevich (COL) Viktor Baldayev (CAR) Jared Cowen (EDM)
out
TRADE: Victor Hedman (ANA)
FA: Vlad Namestnikov (WPG) Marcus Foligno (CHI) Joachim Nermark (OTT) Logan Shaw (BUF) Carl Sneep (NYI) Dillon Heatherington (DAL) Peter Mueller
Tampa won the Cup then lost players to the cap, of course, it comes with the territory. GMGS has done a nice job directly filling the gaps with cheap options while keeping much of the core. With the full time return of Fowler don't expect much fall off here, Tampa could finish better than they did last season.
Strength: Defensive core. The Bolts are basically guaranteed to have a solid presence on the ice for 55 minutes a night. They're deep and they feature the best defenceman in the league.
Weakness: Stanley Cup hangover. It's usually a thing in real life and has only once been done in EHEC. Are you superstitious? This article is.
Need more from: Pavel Buchnevich. He was a bit of a liability in Colorado last year. If he wants to earn a regular spot improvement is needed.
Goalies: Old man Price returns and they roll the dice with inconsistent Bocharov again.
Can anyone beat them in the faceoff circle?
Are they consistent enough?
Will they ever make a 1st round pick again?
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TORONTO
35-34-1-12 83 pts 2022/23 league finish: 3rd in Northeast. Last made playoffs in 2018/19 lost in ECQF
232 GF 256 GA PP% 13.41 PK% 80.73
19th 21st 29th 21st
Last Season Leaders
G - Jeff Carter (37)
A - Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (39)
P - Jeff Carter (73)
PIM - Artem Anisimov (91)
HG - James Greenway (205)
TK - Patrik Laine (182)
GV - Patrik Laine (136)
SB - Drew Doughty (104)
ITG - Drew Doughty (26.5)
FO% - Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (61)
W - Taylor Gauthier (31)
in
TRADE: Jacob Middleton (NSH) Jordan Schmaltz (EDM)
FA: Nikita Filatov (NSH) Kyle Turris (NYR) Joonas Korpisalo (BUF)
out
TRADE: Drew Doughty (NJ) Xavier Bernard (EDM)
FA: Derick Brassard (STL) Eetu Luosarinen (CAR) Dylan Wruck (ANA)
Narrowly making the playoffs last season has led to a small retool. Sights remain set on playoff hockey but with Carter going into the final year of his contract and Luke Hughes needing a pay increase, Leafs fans wonder how different the team could look next season. If they're to make it they will need improvement on both ends of the puck as well as a new look for their special teams.
Strength: Centers. 3.5 excellent centermen are the foundation of the roster. The team will live and die by their performance.
Weakness: Special teams. A powerplay among league worst and a penalty kill not much better are not recipes for success. The coach will have to mix things up to find a solution with minimal roster changes.
Need more from: Taylor Gauthier. A workhorse last season, any regression will cripple Toronto's playoff hopes.
Goalies: Korpisalo looks to be an extra piece as Kirill Gerasimyuk has impressed at camp. Gauthier still projects to be the starter.
Will Carter be flipped, resigned or walk?
Is Middleton an upgrade on Doughty?
Can +/- be balanced out?
How much better can the powerplay get?
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VANCOUVER
26-47-2-7 61 pts 2022/23 league finish: 5th in Northwest. Last made playoffs in 2016/17 lost in WCQF
211 GF 265 GA PP% 17.73 PK% 82.35
28th 25th 18th 12th
Last Season Leaders
G - Nazem Kadri (32)
A - Aaron Ekblad (32)
P - Nazem Kadri (62)
PIM - Will Carier (113)
HG - K'Andre Miller (338)
TK - K'Andre Miller (223)
GV - Connor Chatham (125)
SB - Aaron Ekblad (104)
ITG - Aaron Ekblad (27.8)
FO% - Will Carrier (62.5)
W - Sebastien Cossa (18)
in
TRADE: Lukas Reichel (OTT)
out
TRADE: Ryan Kesler (BUF)
A very quiet offseason on the west coast leaves fans wondering about the future. At the draft GMJG opted to send his 2024 1st to Ottawa in exchange for what amounted to Axel Sandin Pellikka and Gracyn Sawchyn. The move bolsters an already intriguing prospect pool that features Mason McTavish, Pavel Mintyukov and Matvei Michkov. Along with Mercer and Miller they will soon have an elite M named team.
Strength: D core. Led by Ekblad they will provide steady presence for Cossa to hopefully carry them.
Weakness: Scoring. This team lacks a proper playmaker. It may be difficult to overcome 5v5 deficiency without consistent offensive threat.
Need more from: Filip Forsberg. Perennial 30+ goalscorer has had two straight seasons of decline. If he can't improve on his 12 goals last year that new contract might be a 7 year anchor.
Goalies: Cossa enters his third season ready to prove he's a better goalie than his previous numbers suggest. Vet Jake Allen looks to bounce back after a rough first season in Vancouver.
Will team defence improve enough?
Can 5v5 play be improved enough to get out of the basement?
How will they improve the powerplay?
Where does the M go in Sebastien Cossa?
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WASHINGTON
29-37-6-10 74 pts 2022/23 league finish: 19th 3rd in Southeast. Last made playoffs in
242 GF 264 GA PP% 17.36 PK% 80.70
17th 24th 20th 22nd
Last Season Leaders
G - Marian Gaborik (29)
A - Nathan Beaulieu (42)
P - Marian Gaborik (54)
PIM - Benoit-Olivier Groulx (128)
HG - Nathan Beaulieu (230)
TK - Ronald Knot (148)
GV - Jason Spezza (103)
SB - Nathan Beaulieu (93)
ITG - Miro Heiskanen (27.3)
FO% - Lias Andersson (50.2)
W - Andrei Vasilevski (14)
in
TRADE: Mitch Vande Sompel (PHI) Elias Pettersson (PHI)
FA: Damir Galin (DET) Chet Pickard (WPG) Jake Patterson
out
FA: Marian Gaborik(ANA) Jason Spezza (STL) Chris Calnan (CAR) Nathan Beaulieu (BUF) Ronald Knot (WPG) Braden Holtby (CHI)
FA review
A rebuild seems to be in motion the nations capital. 6 everyday players have moved on leaving the door open for the next generation of Capitals to earn their place. Eyes will be on teenager Logan Cooley who appears to have made the team out of camp. Caps fans look forward to seeing what he, Beniers and Quinn can do.
Strength: Prospects to build around. Lots of quality under the age of 25 gives a solid foundation for the future.
Weakness: Top end quality. Lots of ice time for the youngsters to develop mean less wins.
Need more from: Matthew Beniers. Going into his second season there will be lots of runway to show what he can do.
Goalies: Andrei Vasilevski and Chet Pickard form a respectable duo.
Can quality depth scoring be repeatable?
How many steps can the young core take?
Is Cooley good enough?
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WINNIPEG
43-28-5-6 97 pts 2022/23 league finish: 10th. 4th in Central. Last made playoffs in 2022/23 lost in WCQF
267 GF 246 GA PP% 21.57 PK% 82.86
10th 15th 3rd 11th
Last Season Leaders
G - Ilya Kovalchuk (40)
A - Jack Johnson (42)
P - Ilya Kovalchuk (77)
PIM - Evander Kane (102)
HG - Stephen Johns (237)
TK - Alex Pietrangelo (188)
GV - Radek Faksa (153)
SB - Jack Johnson (104)
ITG - Jack Johnson (28.1)
FO% - Evander Kane (55.9)
W - Chet Pickard (29)
in
TRADE: David Pastrnak (BUF) Jeremy Roy (BUF)
FA: Vlad Namestnikov (TB) Zemgus Girgensons (BUF) Guillaume Brisebois (NJ) Ronald Knot (WAS) Erik Karlsson (OTT)
out
FA: Ilya Kovalchuk (SJ) Logan Couture (CAR) Sam Gagner (CGY) Evander Kane (ANA) Carter Ashton (NYR) Max Pacioretty (CHI) Radek Faksa (SJ) Chet Pickard (WSH) Kevin Klein Dustin Byfuglien Jake Patterson
New GM MKB has left his mark on the Jets early, retooling the roster in an effort to continue competing despite losing many vets. With a lackluster center core and questionable goaltending they will need career seasons from numerous contributors if they are to challenge for a division title.
Strength: Defence. Led by Alex Pietrangelo they are decently deep. Acquisitions of Roy, Yandle and Knot are good.
Weakness: Goalies. A combined 39 games of EHEC experience between them. They will likely struggle to keep their heads above water. Perhaps one of them has made a deal with the devil we do know know about.
Need more from: Zemgus Girgensons. He has somehow found his way into a top 6 position.
Goalies: Nick Malik, son of legendary shootout expert Marek, and ex-London Knight Michael Guigovaz will stand between the pipes.
Can Pastrnak replace Kovalchuk?
Who will win the faceoffs?
Is the goaltending good enough?
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Dallas Stars GM
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Duckduckdeke
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AvalancheGM
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Re: 2023/24 EHEC Season Preview
Wow. Tip of the cap to you sir.
The Colorado Avalanche - missing the playoffs every year since EHEC began