NHL 2024-2025

[von Rantala]

Its time to start post von's annual NHL news. Atm i have done all the ratings and about half of teams are fully complite and rest are partly ready. I will try to complite all the teams and i have over month time to do so. As you know i am huge NHL fan. I dont have own favorite team, but i do follow my idols and favorite players and i do cheer those teams to win games and Stanley Cup. Last couple season i havent been able to watch full games. I watched a lot 10 min recapts and i did watch last season playoffs. I am old timer and i am not expert of new data etc... Some teams i know better and some less. Last season was probably best NHL season ever. Hopefully this season will be great too and i truly wish that players can avoid bad injuries.

 

What is your favorite team?

 

I did write these in Google app. I trust that google fixed my typos 😂

 

Anaheim Ducks

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 6

Defence: 4,5

Goalies: 5

Special Teams: 3PP 1PK (Total: 4)

GM/Coach: 2GM 1,5Coach (Total 3,5)

Total: 23

 

Worst Contract: John Gibson (G)

Best Contract: Frank Vatrano (C/W)

Most underrated: Lukas Dostal (G)

MVP: Mason McTavish ( C )

Biggest talent: Cutter Gauthier (LW/C)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Strome - McTavish - Carlsson

Gauthier - Zegras - Terry

Killorn - Fabbri - Vatrano

Leason - Lundeström - McGinn

 

Mintyukov - Fowler

Dumoulin - Zellweger

Gudas - LaCombe

 

Dostal

Gibson

 

Key Words:

 

Anaheim haven't won a playoff serie since 2017 when they lost Conference finals to Nashville 4 - 2. After firing Carlyle 2019 and starting a new season with Eakins Anaheim has played 373 games and only SJ has given more goals against. Last season start was promising, it looked like new headcoach Corinin found ways to make the Anaheim defense better. After the first month of the season, Anaheim was 6-4-0 and had first Wild Card position and 4 point bumper to first non-playoff team. Good start ended to 7 game losing streak, which started in the middle of November. Anaheim also had another 7 game losing streak and three 5 game losing streaks. Can the team avoid long losing streaks this season? Can Anaheim find a way to defend better? It doesn't look promising, because Anaheim wasn't active in FA markets. Only new guy in the d-group is Dumoulin. It's not long time ago, when Gibson was seen as one of best goalies in the NHL and now his contract is untradeable. Sometimes you can see his frustration. GM’s or coaches haven't been able to fix Anaheim defense problems. Dostal is an underrated goalie, who is already ready for taking a full time starter role. Anaheim's strong point is their wide and good young offense group. On rating to forwards I give a little bit extra value to potential. Even though that team was 30.st last season in scoring, now players have one year more experience and that will be seen in scoring. There are a couple interesting names coming from D-group too. Anaheim can't drop from the San Jose train. Which of these two California teams will return to the playoffs faster? Anaheim, who haven't made a lot of moves in last seasons, or SJ who has been more aggressive in trades and FA signings?

 

Interesting player: Cutter Gauthier (LW/C)

 

Gauthier is probably Public Enemy Number One in Philadelphia after asking trade. It's coming more and more norm in NHL that young players asking to be traded or signing long expensive contract with a lot term's. There isn't anything wrong to ask trade. Who would like to commit to play at city where they don't want to live, or team which are not suitable for player interest’s or asking to be traded closer to family. Way how Gauthier did ask trade is making ppls upset. Ofc we can't know how much he was influenced by Agent, family or friends. He did put himself to bad position and good start in new team is key. In future when young players ask trades, his case might be used as example how to not do it. Only time will tell if trade was good for Ducks, but Gauthier has potential to be star player in NHL.

 

Early Playoff prediction: It’s likely too early for Anaheim to make a playoff return. It's key to avoid long losing streaks. Again, a long season is coming. More likely, will return to the playoffs in the 2025-2026 season.

 

Edited September 22 by von Rantala

[von Rantala]

Boston Bruins

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 6,5

Defence: 7,5

Goalies: 9

Special Teams: 3,5PP 3,5PK (Total: 7)

GM/Coach: 4GM 4Coach (Total: 8 )

Total: 38

 

Worst Contract: Joonas Korpisalo (G)

Best Contract: Brad Marchand (W/C)

Most underrated: Trent Frederic (C/LW)

MVP: David Pastrnak (RW)

Biggest talent: Fabian Lysell (RW)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Zacha - Lindholm - Pastrnak

Marchand - Poitras - Coyle

Frederic - Beecher - Geekie

Brazeau - Kastelic - Lysell

 

Zadorov - McAvoy

Lindholm - Carlo

Lohrei - Peeke

 

Swayman

Korpisalo

 

Key Words:

 

Boston has made solid drafting in past years with Poitras Lohrei, Swayman and Beecher. Farinacci has potential also. Boston was a positive surprise for me last year. They good job in drafting keeping them in the playoff race every year. Atlantic Division isnt easist division and teams like Toronto and Tampa made big moves. So the playoff battle will be difficult in this year too. I do believe that Korpisalo can bounce back and the 3M contract can be one of team best contracts next season (25-26). Lindholm's signing was the right move from the team, even that it's slight overpayment now. Center group looks better now, but winger depth is a big question mark. Who can take Pasternak production if he gets injuries. Boston D-group is strong, it may not produce as much offense as some other d-groups, but it's not easy to beat. Boston also added Zadorov from the free agent market. I did see him playing when i watched Vancouver playoffs games and he was great. After Hughes he was Vancouver's best d-man. I also see him fitting team game style perfectly, he is not an offensive force, but is good in the d-zone. If you want to go to the Bruins net, you have to pay a big price on it. Poitras did show some flashes of his potential last season. Is he the next “Bergeron”? Bruins are built for the playoffs, game style demands a lot from the players. Last year you still was able to see Bergeron and Chára legacy on the team. Some teams re-tool or rebuild is a lot faster and some teams it takes many many years, coaches and GM’s. I think it all starts from the lockerroom and what kind legacy you leave when you retire. If you always knew as a hard worker, in practises and on the ice, if you know to be a good example. Players and organizations follow that legacy, but if you trade all the players who were part of old successful teams, you lose that legacy, that legacy that players admire and follow. Like Nashville, it's not a coincidence that Bruins have great goalies on the net. Thomas, Rask, Ullmark and Swayman. Organization doing a super good job on raising goalies and fans stand behind goalies, even when they are struggling. Culture, legacy, media and fans, those all help players development.

 

Interesting player: Jeremy Swayman

 

Swayman was epic in last season's playoffs. It was enjoyable to follow his gaming. He has a bright future, but what will be his next contract value? Will he follow the Oettinger route and make a 2-3 year bridge deal? The Goalie spot is the most difficult place in Hockey. I believe it would be better for Swayman and for the team if he makes a bridge deal and not a massive 7 year deal. He is mentally very strong, he does not bend under pressure. This will be his first year as clear number one goalie, will he be physically in as good shape in the playoffs as he was last season? It will be key that coaching staff handle gaming time properly.

 

Early Playoff prediction: If players stay healthy, I do see them in the top 3 in the division. They will defence their way to the playoffs. I put them in the first or second round, but in the playoffs everything is possible.

 

Edited September 7 by von Rantala

[von Rantala]

Buffalo Sabres

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 6,5

Defence: 7,5

Goalies: 8

Special Teams: 3,5PP 3PK (Total 6,5)

GM/Coach: 1,5GM, 3Coach (Total 4,5)

Total: 33

 

Worst Contract: Connor Clifton (D)

Best Contract: Alex Tuch (RW/C)

Most underrated: Alex Tuch (RW/C)

MVP: Rasmus Dahlin (D)

Biggest talent: Konsta Helenius (C/RW)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Benson - Thompson - Tuch

Peterka - Cozens - Quinn

Zucker - McLeod - Kulich

Greenway - Lafferty - Aube-Kubel

 

Samuelsson - Dahlin

Power - Byram

Clifton - Jokiharju

 

Levi

Luukkonen

 

Key Words:

 

Lindy Ruff is back in the town. Ruff is the last coach who has led Buffalo to the playoffs. After Lindy Ruff was fired in 2013 Buffalo had seen three new GM’s and 6 different coaches. Team has drafted first twice (Dahlin and Powers) and second overall twice Eichel and Reinhart. Eichel and Reinhart are Stanley Cup champions, but not in Buffalo. Return on Reinhart could be a cornerstone on a new rise. Buffalo got Devon Levi in return. Eichel trade hasn't been so bad either, when they got Tuch who has made close to the same in production, but at a much cheaper price. Buffalo has hired ex NHL coaches, but they also tried to look outside of the box and hired rookie coaches, but nothing seems to work. On paper the team has looked playoff ready for the last couple seasons. Naming Lindy Ruff as coach is a bit of a strange move. NHL culture and coaching has changed, is Ruff keeping up on new waves? Team salary management looks okey, but Power and Cozens have to play more like 7M+ players, because there are young players like Peterka, Quinn and Benson waiting for big contracts. Tuch is one of the best contracts in the NHL. Is this Levi breakout season or can UPL continue his solid game? Buffalo was patient with UPL and now it's paying them back. They did rush Levi to the goal last year, and after several losses they continued with Levi and UPL was third goalie. Maybe a more patient approach with Levi could have been better? Team is very interesting to follow and I will follow them more now when one of my favorite players, Zucker, plays in Buffalo. Special teams might be they biggest strength

 

Interesting player: Ryan McLeod (C/W)

 

Buffalo coaching, GM and scouts have big belief in McLeod, because they gave Savoie on trade which now is seen as Edmonton won. McLeod had his chance to play with McDavid and Draisaitl. Now he might get a leading role in Buffalo and maybe Buffalo's game style suits him better than Edmonton. Buffalo fans hope that he's not the next Puljujärvi and Yamamoto. But let's give him a chance first.

 

Early Playoff prediction: Team has all the potential to go to the playoffs. Is in the mix and fighting for a playoff spot. Team just has to be more steady. Team does not need big ups and downs. Strong start is key. I see them taking a playoff spot this season.

[von Rantala]

Calgary Flames

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 5

Defence: 5,5

Goalies: 4,5

Special Teams: 2PP 3,5PK (Total 5,5)

GM/Coach: 2,5GM 1,5Coach (Total 4)

Total: 24,5

 

Worst Contract: Jonathan Huberdeau (LW)

Best Contract: Rasmus Andersson (D)

Most underrated: Mikael Backlund ( C )

MVP: MacKenzie Weegar (D)

Biggest talent: Dustin Wolf (G)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Kuzmenko - Kadri - Sharangovich

Huberdeau - Zary - Coleman

Coronato - Backlund - Mantha

Pelletier - Pospisil - Lomberg

 

Weegar - Andersson

Bahl - Miromanov

Bean - Poirier

 

Wolf

Vladar

 

Key Words:

 

Team has many very talented forwards in the group, but some veteran players block their route to the team or to the bigger role. Calgary has been very patient with Wolf who dominated the AHL past three seasons. Some teams he would have been 1B or 1A. Wolf is a very promising goalie and behind stronger teams he could be Calder favorites. Calgary has been doing a little bit bad job on developing their young players. Calgary's way to treat their youngsters is strange and maybe that's why some hasnt wanted to re-sign with them once they became UFA eligible. They have been an older team which forced them to keep younger players in the AHL. Can Huberdeau finally find his form? Maybe playing with Zary might boost his production, or his contract might be bought out after the season. Conroy has been doing a solid job as GM, but it's too early to see how he drafted and how those first round picks that he got on trades worked. Calgary is in the middle of the rebuild and Calgary might drop behind San Jose and Anaheim this season.

 

Interesting player: Dustin Wolf

 

I already wrote about Wolf, but let's write a bit more. He had to go a longer route to the NHL. He is two time AHL best goalie and one time AHL MVP. Last year, I was very surprised that Calgary sent Wolf back to AHL before Vladar. I do think that Wolf would have benefited from playing more with Markström. Markström who himself also did spend lengthy time in AHL and was seen as a big talent. So Markström could have been a good mentor for Wolf. As I say, it's strange how Calgary treats youngsters and I wouldn’t be surprised if Wolf makes next or UFA contract negotiations difficult for the team. Like Wolf, Saros is also “shorter” goalies, but Saros had a great mentor on Rinne. Saros already has left salary on the table in the contract negotiations. If Wolf stays healthy, I do think he is a future Vezina candidate and behind a great team he can also win Vezina or a couple.

 

Early Playoff prediction: 

 

Will miss the playoffs. If the Flames young players surprise and Wolf plays a Calder season in goal, Calgary might take the last wild card. More likely to be in the playoffs next season or 2026-2027 season.

[von Rantala]

Carolina Hurricanes

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 7,5

Defence: 7

Goalies: 7

Special Teams: 3PP 4,5PK (Total 7,5)

GM/Coach: 2GM 4Coach (Total 6)

Total: 35

 

Worst Contract: Dimitry Orlov (D)

Best Contract: Pyotr Kochetkov (G)

Most underrated: Jaccob Slavin (D)

MVP: Sebastian Aho (C/LW)

Biggest talent: Alexander Nikishin (D)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Jarvis - Aho - Necas

Svechnikov - Drury - Roslovic

Nadeau - Kotkaniemi - Blake

Carrier - Staal - Martinook

 

Slavin - Ghostisbehere

Orlov - Burns

Walker - Chatfield

 

Kochetkov

Andersen

 

Key Words:

 

Carolina is a bit of a mystery. I think they are a much weaker team than last season, but coach Brind’Amour is a great coach who is able to get more out of players than many other coaches in the league. Carolina is also a good place for young players to grow. Last season Orlov signing was a massive mistake and in last year's news I already predicted that Carolina probably will lose some key defenders because they can't keep all after Orlov's massive contract. So Carolina lost Pesce, who is a better option than Orlov and who they could have kept without Orlov contract. If you look at the list of players who Carolina lost free in the last couple seasons it looks bad. Pesce, Skjei, Forsling from D-group and Teräväinen, Guentzel and Noesen from F-group. Losing Forsling on waivers might be the NHL worst waiver mistake. How much Dunton does effect on hockey decisions is debatable. Carolina was my biggest favorite to win the Cup last year and now it looks like a couple bad contracts that weren't even given to this offseason make the team look a lot weaker. There are several spots open in the forward group for rookies and it's key for Carolina that those can produce rightway, like Jarvis and Aho did in their rookie seasons. There is a lot of hunger in the team and the team probably has the NHL's best fourth line. Goalies are solid, not best and not worst and Kochetkov has potential to be a star goalie. Carolina has very good PK forwards like Staal, Martinook, Aho, Jarvis and Carrier. Carolina also has many players who are underrated. Like Aho, Jarvis, Necas and Slavin

 

Interesting player: Sebastian Aho ( C )

 

I had to choose my idol Aho here. Aho made a long 8 year contract last year and in my mind left money on the table. He is a very good two-way player, but havent got big recognition yet. He hasn't been high in Frank J. Selke votes yet. Maybe this year when Carolina was forced to use a bit more defensive style of hockey, he would get more recognition on Selke votes. Carolina probably has the NHL best defensive fourth line which could “cost” some Selke votes. Aho and Jarvis had very good chemistry last year so it's interesting to see who will play with them, will it be some rookie? or Svechnikov or Necas?

 

Early Playoff prediction: 

 

Should go to the playoffs and might be a big player at the trade deadline. Carolina has taken a step backwards this season, but might take a couple steps forward next season. Could also drop out, but early prediction is that they take the playoff spot and are out either first or second round.

 

[von Rantala]

Chicago Blackhawks

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 5

Defence: 5

Goalies: 5

Special Teams: 1,5PP 2,5PK (Total 4)

GM/Coach: 2,5GM 1,5Coach (Total 4)

Total: 23

 

Worst Contract: Seth Jones (D)

Best Contract: Philipp Kurashev (C/W)

Most underrated: Jason Dickinson (C/LW)

MVP: Connor Bedard ( C )

Biggest talent: Artyom Levshunov (D)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Teräväinen - Bedard - Nazar

Hall - Kurashev - Bertuzzi

Athnasiou - Dickinson - Mikheyev

Foligno - Donato - Reichel

 

Vlasic - Jones

Korchinski - TJ. Brodie

Martinez - Levshunov

 

Mrazek

Brossoit

 

Key Words:

 

I do not know the Blackhawks team so well. After CapFriendly closed, its a lot more difficult to get a good overall view of how GM has done his jobs. I was able to find some trade history, and I do think Davidson has done a solid job on those, you can always wish for more back when you trade players, but he got several first round picks and only time will tell how those work. Korchinski came in DeBrincat trade and Nazar in Dach trades. Those look good already. I liked how Davidson has brought veteran players to the team, good role models to young draft picks. Chicago plays in a difficult central division, in Pasific i would give them a chance of surprise to take that last Wild Card, but it's more difficult to take in the Central division. Is Richardson the right coach for the team? If the team gets a poor start, Chicago might be the first team to change coaches in the middle of the season. It will be interesting to follow how young players continue to grow. Defense group is a good mix of young promising d-mans and veterans. Jones needs to improve his game, or he could end up playing third pair d-man minutes. I do think Chicago might test Nazar on the same line with Bedard and see if they get a new version of Toews and Kane. If there is chemistry it will help the team more than making Nazar second line center. In the d-group I did leave Murphy out, even though he is Alternate Captain. Training camp will decide if Levshunov starts in the NHL. Usually high D-man drafts come to play in the NHL one year after draft. So it's fully possible that Murphy will play in the third D-pair with Martinez.

 

Interesting player: Connor Bedard ( C )

 

There are a lot of interesting young players to like and follow in Chicago. Is Reichel making his breakthrough this year? How will Nazar play? But in Chicago all eyes are on Bedard and how he will play this season and what kind contract he will sign next summer. Is it the same type of contract what Matthews and McDavid got? Does Chicago name Bedard next captain in this season or next? Does he make 100 points just in his second season in the NHL? We all wish that he can stay healthy.

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

Should not be in last place in the division anymore, but playoffs are just too far away this season. 2025-2026 all the possibilities to take the playoff spot.

[von Rantala]

Colorado

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 7,5

Defence: 9

Goalies: 6,5

Special Teams: 4PP, 3PK (Total 7)

GM/Coach: 4,5GM, 4,5Coach (Total 9)

Total: 39

 

Worst Contract: Miles Wood (LW)

Best Contract: Cale Makar (D)

Most underrated: Mikko Rantanen (W/C)

MVP: Cale Makar (D)

Biggest talent: Nikolai Kovalenko (RW/LW)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Lehkonen - MacKinnon - Rantanen

Drouin - Mittelstadt - Landeskog

Foudy - Colton - Kovalenko

Kiviranta - Kelly - Innala

 

Toews - Makar

Girard - Manson

Brännström - Malinski

 

Georgiev

Annunen

 

Key Words:

 

Colorado made the most goals last season. We can't know if Landeskog plays and on what level his game is after missing two seasons. Forward group look a lot weaker and thin without Landeskog and Nichushkin. Does Colorado invite Nichushkin back after he gets out of the player assist program and he serves his suspension? In my papers Georgiev is a bit too irregular for a full time starter role, so Annunen has a chance to take the starter role and how he will play probably reflects team success this season more than Georgiev. The NHL has a salary cap, you have to save money somewhere and Georgiev is a good goalie for only having a 3,4M salary cap. Annunen has been a Colorado long time project and he has seen Colorado signing a lot of goalies and giving them crease before him. Looks like Bednar does not trust Annunen, so how good a chance he will get to prove his skills remains a question mark. Central is though, maybe the hardest division and injury problems could cost Colorado a playoff spot. Teams around Colorado have gotten stronger. Joe Sakic and Chris MacFarland has made good job on signing players. You can't find very bad contract or overpayments from them. Even though Nathan MacKinnon did win the Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award, I do value Makar a bit higher in my papers. He is the fastest d-man to get 250  points, he is over point per game d-man and Conn Smythe Winner. Colorado can win without MacKinnon, but if Maker is injured or playing with injuries Colorado has difficulties to win. We did see that in last playoffs.

 

Interesting player: Mikko Rantanen (W/C)

 

Rantanen is in mind a very underrated player, because doesnt get so much credit or acknowledgement, when Makar and MacKinnon take most of the spotlights. Truth is that Rantanen has a key role in Colorado's success. He does not make more points than MacKinnon, but when MacKinnon has injuries, Rantanen can lead the offensive group as well as MacKinnon. Rantanen can play both wings and center. His battle level and will to win is very high every night. Rantanen is one of my favorite players.

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

Taking a playoff spot is not guaranteed, but they should be able to take it by experience and the high level of their star players. Making a long playoff run will be difficult if they have to “overplay” their star players in the regular season. The NHL is getting faster and faster so game time management is a key role. Winning NHL teams need 3 offensive lines and 5 defenders who all can have key roles on the team and close to the same ice time.

 

 

[von Rantala]

Columbus

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 4

Defence: 5

Goalies: 4

Special Teams: 1,5PP 3,5PK (Total 5) 

GM/Coach: 3,5GM 3,5Coach (Total 7)

Total: 25

 

Worst Contract: Elvis Merzlikins (G)

Best Contract: Boone Jenner (W/C)

Most underrated: Boone Jenner (W/C)

MVP: Werenski Zach (D)

Biggest talent: Denton Mateychuk (D)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Johnson - Fantilli - Marchenko

Chinakhov - Monahan - Jenner

Dumais - Sillinger - Brindley

Olivier - Kuraly - Danforth

 

Werenksi - Severson

Provorov - Jiricek

Mateychuk - Gudbranson

 

Tarasov

Merzlikins

 

Key Words: 

 

Columbus' start to the season is difficult and hard. Just when training camps was about to start we got very sad news on Johnny Gaudreau passing away at the age of 31. Same time the Gaudreau family lost Matthew Gaudreau, Johnny’s younger brother who was coach at Gloucester Catholic High. Rest In Peace Johnny and Matt.

 

Once the sun rises again, Blue Jackets prospect poll is probably NHL deepest. Especially on Defense poll is deep and it's hard to see them all getting opportunities in Columbus' roster. Harris who came on the Laine trade could take Gudbranson spot and Columbus might send Gudbranson to AHL or try to trade him and Provorov at some point of the season. Elvis doesn't want to stay in Columbus and when Columbus has Tarasov and Greaves they can safely trade Elvis when possible. His contract is one of hardest to trade at the moment. Elvis wants a starter role. Starter role needs to be earned, it can’t be given only if you want it . Last couple of years his stats and play have been worse than other Columbus goalies. Personally I don't fully understand Monahan signing, when their center group is deep on young players who should be taking leading roles this or next season. Columbus will be Waddell's third team as GM and in Carolina and Columbus timing couldn't be better to him. In Carolina he came to a team who had drafted well and had a deep prospect poll. Most of his FA signings or trades didn't stay team long. He made questionable moves like putting Forsling to waivers. Now Waddell sits at the prepared table. Say what you say on Kekäläinen, but he did a very good job on drafting and there is a solid and good foundation. 

 

Interesting player: David Jiricek (D)

 

Jiricek was one of many players who was unhappy last year. He was one of many players who criticized how they were treated in Columbus. Jiricek was unhappy to not get more time on PP. Players are more and more open when they are unhappy or want to be traded. It's totally fine. Jiricek has high potential, he should get more ice time this season. He should be in the first PP unit this year. Evason is a good coach and he does get more out of his players. Jiricek should take a bigger role this season, because next season there are many younger high prospects trying to get on the team. So it's possible that Jiricek get traded this year, if he can't or not be given a top 3 d-man role and PP time. 

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

Difficult season is coming and it's unlikely that Evason can lead team to the playoffs, but the future is bright. Whole hockey world is behind the Blue Jackets and cheering for them this year. Everyone, including me, wishes that they take a playoff spot this season, but it's more likely happen next season.

[von Rantala]

Dallas

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 9,5

Defence: 8

Goalies: 9

Special Teams: 5PP 4PK (Total 9)

GM/Coach: 4GM 4Coach (8)

Total: 43,5

 

Worst Contract: Tyler Seguin (C/RW)

Best Contract: Jake Oettinger (G)

Most underrated: Esa Lindell (D)

MVP: Jason Robertson (LW)

Biggest talent: Logan Stankoven (C/RW)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Robertson - Johnston - Stankoven

Marchement - Hintz - Duchene

Benn - Bourque - Seguin

Blümel - Steel - Dadonov

 

Lindell - Heiskanen

Harley - Dumba

Lyubushkin - Lundkvist

 

Oettinger

DeSmith

 

Key Words:

 

Dallas was my favorite to win the Cup from the west last year. In my mind teams looks weaker now than what they were last year. Especially D-group. Hakanpää and Lindell was in my mind NHL best Penalty killing d-pair. Losing Hakanpää is bigger than people might think. Everyone sees that losing Tanev was huge and it's true. Tanev was a warrior and the team basically played with 4 d-man last playoffs. Last year I did predict that Suter would lose his spot from line-ups, he didn't, but oh boy how lost he was in the playoffs. Bad mistakes and penalties cost a couple games for Dallas. Suter is gone now. It is possible that half of the d-group is different from last playoffs. I have always been a big Dumba fan, and I recognise he has been more as a defensive defender last seasons, but I hope he can bounce back this season and see some PP time too. I still see him as a very good defender who can score and is a great leader. We saw age on Pavelski's game already, coach DePoer was overplaying him in the playoffs, he should have given hot players more ice time. You can't replace the leadership that Pavelski had, he had a big heart and he was a great leader. Last season Dallas had one of the best leaders group in the NHL. This season is key for Dallas. Where they will go with their young players and veterans. I don't know if Hintz had injury problems last year, but he was a shadow of himself. Dallas needs him to bounce back or Nill have to act quickly, Hintz cant be new Benn/Seguin who is playing third line role with huge overpayment salary. Johnston did look great last season, he kept progressing and he is in my papers first line center. Stankoven could play in wing or take that second line center role and Bourque has potential to be top 2 center of the team too, which might force Hintz to wing. Benn is a great leader for the team, but did look a bit slow against Edmonton and Colorado. Can Seguin continue his strong play from the playoffs? DePoer is a bit of a question mark. He is a good coach, but usually loses teams faster than some other coaches. Dallas is still a very strong team. Even though that team lost Pavelski, I see the forward group a bit better, (than at the end of the last season) because the young players have progressed and are ready to take the next step. In goal Dallas has my idol and favorite goalie Oettinger. I am a big fan of Oettinger. Last season was a bit up and down, but he was strong in the playoffs. In this season it is key to keep him fresh and not over play him too much. Hopefully he stays healthy. He has potential to win Vezina, but Dallas plays offensive hockey, which means a bit more goals to own net too.

 

Interesting player: Wyatt Johnston

 

Johntson played himself to my heart. He had great playoffs. Also looks like he is a great guy off the ice too. Future star and dynasty player for Dallas. If he continues his progression, next salary can be high. It's good to remember tho, that Robertson had a great season too before signing the bridge deal. Most Dallas (drafted) players have signed bridge deals first. Johnston ceiling is very high. Johnston isn't just an offensive force. He was the third most used Penalty killer from the forward group. Before players like Hintz and Benn who used to play more PK. Some other teams Johnston would get more ice time, but because Dallas offensive group is one of NHL deepest he plays around 17:00 min, which means less points, but sametime he is more fresh in the playoffs time. Only Robertson and Hintz played more than Johnston last season.  Is Johnston the next captain of the Dallas Stars when Benn retires?

 

Early Playoff prediction: 

 

Still one of my favorites to win the Cup. Will it be a re-match with Edmonton in the Conference finals? If Dallas stays healthy they will be a big player in the playoffs. Now they know better and hopefully they make sure to have enough d-mans when playoffs start.

[von Rantala]

Detroit

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 8

Defence: 6

Goalies: 6

Special Teams: 4PP, 3PK (Total 7)

GM/Coach: 2GM 2Coach (Total 4)

Total:

 

Worst Contract: Justin Holl (D)

Best Contract: Dylan Larkin ( C )

Most underrated: Alex Lyon (G)

MVP: Dylan Larkin ( C )

Biggest talent: Nate Danielson ( C )

 

Project Line-ups

 

DeBrincat - Larkin - Raymond

Tarasenko - Compher - Kane

Beggren - Copp - Kaspar

Rasmussen Velano - Fischer

 

Chiarot - Seider

Edvinsson - Gustafsson

Määttä - Petry

 

Talbot

Husso/Lyon

 

Key Words:

 

Detroit was very close to end their 7 season non-playoffs record, but they missed the playoffs eight straight times. It is their longest playoff drought. Coach Lalonde starts his third season behind the bench. Yzerman starts his 6th season as team GM. It feels like Yzerman has been Detroit GM a lot longer. Yzerplan has not worked yet. It has raised a lot of questions. For me it looks like Yzerplan has been adventure without compass. There have been very strange FA signings like Justin Holl last year and this year they might start with four goalies. I do believe that if they put Campbell to waivers some team will pick him. Team also has first round pick Cossa in the minors. Last year they could have given promising Edvinsson a chance at the NHL, but they signed Holl on contract. They did bring him to the team to be 7 d-man with a 3,4M salary cap. As I am writing this, Seider, Raymond and Berggren are in RFA  status. It's a bit strange how Yzerman can find money for UFA players which teams do not even need. Players who are eating their young players ice-time. I understand that it's not always good to rush young players to the NHL, but nowadays, if young players feel they are treated wrongly, they play hard ball and ask for a trade or massive contract. Why did Yzerplan work in Tampa Bay? Because they drafted a lot better and hired the right coach. In the past Detroit was an example of drafting. Now they don't have any NHL ready own draft pick to the goal. Only two of their 8 d-man is their own draft pick and from 12 forward three is their own draft picks, if Kaspar is able to take roster spot. If they can't sign Seider, Raymond and Beggren, it's possible that when the season starts only Edvinsson is their own draft pick. Detroit will have very difficult to take playoff spot this upcoming season, because teams who was behind them last season has got stronger. If Detroit is last in division, will that cost Yzerman and Lalonde jobs? Do we see it in the middle of the season or does the team surprise and find they compass and take one of the Wild Card places?

 

Interesting player: Simon Edvinsson

 

How good will Edvinsson be this season? He hasn't dominated in the AHL. He was sixt pick in the 2021 draft. He was the third D-man selected. Detroit had two picks that year, they could have chosen Wyatt Johnston, but they did choose Edvinsson and Cossa.

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

This year it will be harder to take that playoff spot. Ottawa got Ullmark, Buffalo has a better young players group, a bigger group which you can wait for development. In my papers I put Detroit fighting with Montreal for last place in the division. Detroit hasn't been able to fix the problem of giving up too many goals and they didn't make improvements this summer.

[von Rantala]

Edmonton

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 10

Defence: 7

Goalies: 7,5

Special Teams: 5PP 3,5PK (Total 8,5)

GM/Coach: 1GM 3,5Coach (Total 5)

Total:

 

Worst Contract: Darnell Nurse (D)

Best Contract: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (C/W)

Most underrated: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (C/W)

MVP: Connor McDavid ( C )

Biggest talent: Matthew Savoie ( C )

 

Project Line-ups

 

RNH - McDavid - Hyman

Skinner - Draisaitl - Arvidsson

Kane/Savoie - Henrique - Perry

Järventie - Janmark - Brown

 

Ekholm - Bouchard

Nurse - Kulak 

Stecher - Brown

 

Key Words:

 

When choosing who has the worst and who has the best contract, choosing the worst contract is a lot easier. Edmonton has 1-4 best NHL contracts. Draisaitl, Hyman, Nugent-Hopkins and Bouchard all have great contracts. If teams want to win Cup(s) they have to have great contracts. Contracts where players are underpaid. Edmonton's window to win Cup is closing, Bouchard and Draisaitl new contracts start next season and McDavid season after that. Then Edmonton probably has the highest paid core three. Last season Edmonton's start for the season was poor, and again scapegoat was goalies. Every time when Edmonton is losing it's because goalies and when it's easier to fire a coach than find a new starter, they yet again did what they have done so many times before. Knoblauch was the seventh coach in the last ten seasons. Now it did almost work. Edmonton went to game seven in Stanley Cup finals and this season Edmonton has a stronger offense group, but they do give a lot of handicap on defenders. First pair is one of NHL best d-pairs, but third D-pair is not what Cup contenders usually have to have. Dallas did prove that winning with just 4 defenders in Playoffs is very difficult, if not impossible, when the NHL is getting faster and faster. I do believe that it's possible that this year Edmonton will get close to 5 goals per game. Last time a team made 5 goals or more per game was Edmonton in the 1984-1985 season. Only problem I see to slow down goal parties is that Edmonton has only one offensive defender. If teams are able to keep Bouchard on lease or he gets injured, who will start offense? Does McDavid or Draisaitl have that role? I liked Knoblauch so far, I loved his choice to go back to Skinner after he had a difficult start to the playoffs. I see that was a moment that melted the team together.

 

Interesting player: Stuart Skinner (G)

 

I do see a lot of potential in Skinner, I rate him on the same level as Swayman and Oettinger. In some other team, he would get more recognition and credit on his good job. In Edmonton he has to pay a lot because of the team game style. Because Edmonton's strong point is great offense, they play a very offensive minded game and that costs more goals on their own net. Skinner has very strong mental skills. To be scapegoat after losses and being headlines after an easy goal, it needs very strong mental skills. Every goalie, even Vezina winners, has difficult periods and every goalie gives easy goals, but when you already give 1-2 goals more because of offensive minded tactics, the media does not forgive those easy goals so easily. I admire Skinner and his loyalty to Edmonton and fans. I admire that after a shitstorm, he comes back and plays great. I also admire that when he plays a bad game, he admits that and keeps working. In some other teams he would be the star player of the team and fan favorite. I truly hope he can have a great career and he can win a Cup in Edmonton because he is a local kid. I truly hope he is not a new victim of Edmonton media and fans.

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

My biggest Cup favorite from the west. It's either win or bust. This is the last chance to win a Cup for a while. Edmonton's new window opens once Salary Cap rises over 100M. Every team wants to win, but I do believe Edmonton gets more fuel to fire on that last season though game seven lost. Videos from the locker room after game seven were heartbreaking. Players know now what is needed to win the Cup, they know they were in the finals last year, so they know the team has all the potential to be a winner. If they get over the first and second round, then they are unstoppable. As long as the defense and goalies stays healthy, they have everything to win. They have played as a united team, and manage gametime. Its biggest key, to manage gametime and not overplay McDavid, Draisaitl and Bouchard, a task where all other coaches prior to Knoblauch have failed. Every great team that we have seen, has seen tough loses, Florida Cup finals last season, Tampa Bay against Columbus, Colorado against Dallas. When a team is humble and knows what it needs to win, they are stronger.

[von Rantala]

Florida

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 9

Defence: 7,5

Goalies: 9,5

Special Teams: 4PP 5PK (Total 9)

GM/Coach: 5GM 4,5Coach (Total 9,5)

Total: 44,5

 

Worst Contract: Spencer Knight (G)

Best Contract: Gustav Forsling (D)

Most underrated: Gustav Forsling (D)

MVP: Aleksander Barkov ( C )

Biggest talent: Mackie Smoskevich (RW/C)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Verhaege - Barkov - Reinhart

Tkachuk - Lundell - Bennett

Rodrigues - Luostarinen - Samoskevich

Boqvist - Nosek - Entwistle

 

Forsling - Ekblad

Mikkola - Balinskis

Kulikov - Boqvist

 

Bobrovsky

Knight/Dridger

 

Key Words:

 

I am glad I was wrong about last year's news on Florida. I did ask them to trade Bobrovsky and was sure they couldn't repeat the 2023 run to Cup finals. Bob was one of the main reasons they ran to the Cup. Stolarz was a lot better, and now he finally get a chance to be a starter in the NHL, when he signed a two year contract with Toronto. It's interesting to see what kind of Bobrovsky we get this year, he is a mood player. When he is in the right mood or hot streak, he can be the world's best goalie, when not, he looks like a back up goalie. So it will be interesting to see how he and how Florida will play after winning the Cup. They did blow a 3-0 lead, but was able to avoid the worst choke in the history of Hockey. It just tells how hard and how difficult it is to win a Cup. NHL is the fastest team sport, there are so many variables that can change the outcome of a game. Often the team who has the best individuals wins, but in hockey especially in playoff hockey, team play, third and fourth liners usually make the difference between win and loss. Zito has made great contracts and trades. Signing Ekman-Larsson and Mikkola last summer was great moves. Now signing Boqvist, Schmidt and Balinskis to cheap contracts was a great moves. Forsling has found a home and his contract is one of NHL bests. Zito trusts that Boqvist can reach his potential in Florida. Letting Montour walk was the right move. Before coming to Florida Montour was valued as 5th or 6th D-man, but just like so many other current or former Florida players, they play career best hockey in Florida. Zito has done a great job, he had balls to not re-sing Brunette as coach, trade Huberdeau and been right on every turn when letting players walk as FA. He sees when there are better players available on FA and not overpay them. I do believe that when Zito was a player's agent before, it helps in contract negotiations and he understand salary cap management better than anyone else in the NHL at the moment. I do believe that Balinskis, Boqvist and Schmidt rotates on the d-line and now if injuries happen, they still have a strong d-group. I do believe Boqvist will find his potential in the FLA and he might be first PP unit blueliner at the end of  the season and gets 50+ points, either this or next season. I also see that Dridger plays some games, and might even take a backup role. Knight could be used as a trade asset.

 

Interesting player: Aleksander Barkov ( C )

 

Barkov's value to the team can be seen in so many areas. Not only in the forward group, but d-mans also get a huge boost to the points and play career best hockey when playing on Barkov’s team. List is long: Hoffman, Huberdeau, Tkachuk, Verhaeghe, Reinhart, Bennett, Duclair, Marchment, Dadonov. If you check how much less the players who left from Florida get points, it tells you how much Barkov makes players better around him and players do not need to even play on the same line. Dadonov, Hoffman and Huberdeau were points per players in Florida and now Hoffman probably will not get a new NHL contract, Dadonov is fourth liner and Huberdeau contract is probably the NHL worst contract. Whole career Barkov has been one of most underrated players in the NHL. Still after a Cup victory and two Selke Trophies Barkov overall value to the team is underrated. McDavid is getting all the headlines while being the best offensive player, but when talking to a player who does make his team and players better around him, there is not any player even close to Barkov. Note, Personally I am not a Barkov fan, but i do admire his gaming and like to watch his playing.

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

Florida did all the right moves to keep the team competitive. They are serious contenders this season too. Their cap management is in good control. Reinhart did leave a lot of money to the table, to be able to stay in Florida. They have a good mix of veterans and youngsters. There are many players who have not reached their full potential. Team is one of my biggest Cup favorites from the East. I wouldn't be surprised if we see a re-match with Edmonton in the Stanley Cup finals. It would be the first Stanley Cup re-match since 2008 and 2009 when Pittsburgh and Detroit had a Cup rematch.

 

 

Remember to join our NHL fantasy in here https://fearless-assassins.com/forums/topic/131670-fearless-assassins-fantasy-hockey

 

[von Rantala]

Los Angeles

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 6,5

Defence: 6,5

Goalies: 5,5

Special Teams: 3PP 4,5PK (Total 7,5)

GM/Coach: 0,5GM 1Coach (Total 1,5)

Total: 27,5

 

Worst Contract: Joel Edmundson (D)

Best Contract: Adrian Kempe (C/W)

Most underrated: Phillip Danault (C/LW)

MVP: Anze Kopitar ( C )

Biggest talent: Brandt Clarke (D)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Byfield - Kopitar - Kempe

Fiala - Danault- Laferriere

Moore - Turcotte - Thomas

Jeannot - Foegele - Fagemo

 

Anderson - Doughty

Gavrikov  - Clarke

Edmundson - Spence

 

Kuemper

Rittich

 

Key Words:

 

Kings have made strange and expensive contracts to veteran defenders. Gavrikov last season and Edmundson this season. This means that Kings will lose some younger defenders through waivers. Team cant send Spence to waivers, because he probably will be taken. The Kings did lose big players this summer, losing Arvidsson hurts. Arvidsson had a lot of injury problems the last couple seasons, but he was an important part of the offense group when he was healthy. Losing Roy did not hurt so much when Kings waited for Clarke to take his minutes, but you have to ask why they did pay Edmundson so much money? Talbot was strong at the start of the season, but the Kings overplayed him and he got tired. It was poor management from coaches. I do think that Kuemper will have a bounce back season. Lately Washington hasn't been the best place for the goalies. When Blake gets fired? Will it finally happen this year? He has been the worst GM for many years already. Spending a lot of money to veteran players hasn't worked. Trade record is awful, Fiala has been good for LAK, but giving up Faber and a first round pick was a massive mistake. Trading Durzi only for a second round pick was a massive mistake. Blake wanted Dubois so desperately that gave Vilardi, Iafallo and Kupari in exchange. LAK players were very unhappy on Blake to this trade and to trade Quick was a disrespectful move. That trade didn't need to happen. Blake gave a huge contract to Dubois, again a massive mistake. Hiller is Blake's fourth head coach, not many GM’s get so many chances, especially when draft record is awful. Todd McLellan was somehow able to get more out of players in five years. Start of the season was great, but then he lost the locker room, you can't push players over the limits too long. Somehow Hiller was able to lead the team to the playoffs and saved Blake's job, just like McLellan was doing the past four seasons. Blake start job in 2017. Since then only Vilardi (2017), Anderson (2017) and Byfield (2020) can be said to be successful draft picks. 

 

Interesting player: Quinton Byfield ( C )

 

Byfield got a big long contract after best season so far. Byfield development has been slow for second overall pick, but same can be said on a couple other Top 3 picks on Covid time. Covid did affect players' development on many levels. Some lost time because they got Covid and some lost a lot of practice and game time on key moments in their career. Last season was Byfield's first full season in the NHL. In the center line Kings have former Selke winner Kopitar and Alternate captain Danault, which probably means that Byfield continues playing on the wing. You can't get a much better mentor than Kopitar, it's a good place to grow. It will be interesting to follow how Byfield can continue his growth to star player. He is not the first center prospect who had a slow start in the Kings. Kempe was also drafted as center and it did take till sixt season in the NHL before Kempe did hit 50+ points. So keeping Byfield on the line is likely better for the Kings and the Byfield.

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

Because Vegas had difficulties last season, the Kings were able to take the playoff spot too. This season I don't see the Kings having a lot of chances to take the playoff spot. The Pacific is a bit weaker than Central so I think both Wild cards might go to Central teams. I also see Utah jumping ahead of the Kings, Seattle should also be stronger this season. I wouldn't be surprised either if King's will drop to last place in the Pacific division. Team is heading to rebuild or re-tool.

Edited September 20 by von Rantala

[von Rantala]

Minnesota

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 6

Defence: 6,5

Goalies: 6,5

Special Teams: 3PP, 4PK (Total 7)

GM/Coach: 2GM 2,5Coach (Total 4,5)

Total: 30,5

 

Worst Contract: Jared Spurgeon (D)

Best Contract: Joel Eriksson Ek ( C )

Most underrated: Ryan Hartman (RW/C)

MVP: Kirill Kaprizov (LW)

Biggest talent: Zeev Buium (D)

 

Project Line-ups

 

Kaprizov - Eriksson Ek - Boldy

Zuccarello - Rossi - Hartman

Foligno - Khusnutdinov - Johansson

Trenin - Gaudreau - Lauko

 

Brodin - Spurgeon

Middleton - Faber

Lambos - Bogosian

 

Fleury

Gustavsson

 

Key Words:

 

For some reason Wild PK had big struggles at the start of the season. Wild own very good PK guys and 22-23 season PK was tenth best. I do believe that in this season Wild PK should be back in the top ten, but at the same time I do believe that PP will drop to the bottom 10. Hynes is a good coach, I do like him. He never had a Stanley Cup contender team, but he has been able to push his teams to the playoffs or close to playoffs. 22-23 season Wild overperformed. Last season was more on level where they are now. This is the last season when Parise and Suter contracts hurt the team a lot. Is 14,8M buyout money biggest in NHL history? Guerin was lazy and didn't search for a trade option and the team paying high price on it. Other GM's have been able to trade bad contracts out and usually those cost second to third round picks. Guerin also signing players 1 year prior to contract ending. This ties his hands a lot. Wild did drop out from playoffs last season and only FA’s are Trenin and Lauko to the third/fourth line role. Wild did take huge risks with Faber. Signing him to an 8,5Nx8 contract was an unnecessary risk. There was still one year left on his contract, he would have been RFA, and Faber is a huge Wild fan, so even if he plays a better season than last one, Wild wouldn't need to pay more than 8,5M. There is always the risk that he is a one season miracle, which Wild would have to cost a lot now. You never can't blame players who take “max” money. NHL careers are short and players have to earn money for the rest of their life. Usually they get 20-30% of the money, because taxes and agent fees are high. It's the GM’s job to make contract negotiations hard and save every possible penny. Salary cap is rising, but so are salaries, if a player takes 10% now, next one will take 10% too. I do like Faber. It's part of the new NHL to give 7-8M to young RFA’s after their rookie contract ends. This will be Fleury last season. He was the Wild best goalie last season. The Wild will start the season with three goalies, but they might trade Gustavsson if he gets a slow start again.

 

Interesting player: Jonas Brodin (D)

 

I did choose Brodin and not Fleury here, because I have followed Brodin careers since his first season at the Wild. I am a huge fan of Brodin. I value him as one of the best defensive defenders in the NHL, but sametime he can make points too. Big part of Faber's success was because Brodin was mentoring him and taking care of defensive responsibilities when Faber was able to be more offensive minded. They were a great pair last season. Brodin is a d-man who makes his d-pairs better. Suter, Spurgeon and Dumba all played their best hockey when they were playing in the same pair with Brodin. This is Brodin thirteenth season in the Wild, a team who drafted him in the first round. You would think he would be Alternate Captain now, but he is a quiet leader and mentor, a guy who does not need a letter to his jersey. It's crazy how fast time flies. I still remember his first season in the Wild. From that Wild team, only him and Spurgeon still playing in the Wild.

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

I predict a difficult season for the Wild. The Central division is difficult and it is possible that Wild is last in the division. If a team does not get in the playoffs, is it time to fire Guerin? I would say yes, but sametime Hynes is a great coach and he could save Guerien's job and get Wild close to the playoff line. For the Wild it would be better to be in last place than close to the Playoff line, without getting in the playoffs. So I see them being in 6-8 positions in the division.

[von Rantala]

Montréal

 

Ratings (1-10)

Offence: 6

Defence: 5,5

Goalies: 5

Special Teams: 3PP 2PK (Total 5)

GM/Coach: 2,5GM 2,5Coach (Total 5)

Total: 26,5

 

Worst Contract:

Best Contract:

Most underrated:

MVP:

Biggest talent:

 

Project Line-ups

 

Slafkovsky - Suzuki - Caufield

Laine - Dach - Roy

Barré Boule - Newhook - Armia

Harvey Pinard - Evans - Gallagher

 

Matheson - Guhle

Hutson - Savard

Xhekaj - Mailloux

 

Montembeault

Primeau

 

Key Words:

 

I was a fan of Martin St. Louis when he was a player. I always had him at my NHL games. I am glad he is doing a fantastic job in Montréal. He is loved by players and fans. His biggest strength is mentoring and motivating. Montréal got a good start for the season. After October they were third in Atlantic division, but the team had a couple 4 game losing streaks and 5 game losing streak. On young teams losing streaks are normal. Montréal gave 3.43GA per game, its fifth most with NJ. Only Chicago, Anaheim, Columbus and San Jose gave more goals. Team is a bit overcrowded in D-spot. There are several interesting young defenders to follow in this upcoming season. Hutson is one of those. He might be a great second round steal. All of Montréal young d-mans cant take a spot from training camp and its key to have patience with young d-mans. Only Matheson and Savard are over 25 years from d-group. Montembeault is now first time clear starting goalie and his new 3,15M contract started. He hasn't been able to get a goal against under three yet. Laine will start his first season in Montréal. He asked to be traded for the second time in his career. Still players are traded and bought out by GM’s more often against players will, so asking for trade is not wrong. Especially in the Laine case. I hope he can find enjoyment in gaming again. Canada markets can be mentally hard, but you can say the same on Finnish markets. So I do think he does well, and you can't get a much better mentor than St. Louis. 10.September.2018 Montréal traded their captain Pacioretty to Vegas in exchange of current captain Nick Suzuki. That trade looks good now, but Pacioretty had a key role in Vegas too. So overall it's a good example of win and win trade. First winner was Vegas, and now the winner is Montréal because they got younger talent in exchange. Younger talent, which Vegas would love to have now, but Montreál has been doing a good job on developing Suzuki.

 

Interesting player: Juraj Slafkovský (RW/LW)

 

It took a little bit of time before Slafkovský started to produce on the level that Montréal fans were waiting for. He still havent reached his full potential. He is a power forward and scorer. The 2022 draft class had a big impact on Covid to their development. Slafkovský also had injury problems in his rookie season. Second half of last season he played at about point per game pace. Slafkovský is the first player who is selected as first overall from Finland(Finnish Liiga). Slafkovský still comes to Turku for summer camps/training. First time he came to Finland at the age of fifteen. He was a bit of a “surprise” first overall pick, but from the 2022 draft class he is leading in games, penalties, assists, points and goals.

 

Early Playoff prediction:

 

Montréal is patiently rebuilding and having a great coach to lead it. Now Habs fans just need to be patient and wait. Future is bright. Team was second last in the east last season, they might take a spot or two, but they might drop to last too. Playoffs are a realistic goal in the 2026-2027 season.