2023/24 EHEC Season Preview
Posted: Fri Oct 06, 2023 5:24 am
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
----------------------------
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?
-------------------------
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?
---------------------------------------------
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
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
----------------------------
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
----------------------------
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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