30 for 30 in 30 - Anaheim Ducks

**AS OF TIME OF WRITING**

Bik Nizzar: Quack quack quack quack QUACK QUACK QUACK QUACK QUACK!!!!!! That was the only way I could get motivated to write about the Anaheim Ducks. There is 1 glaring fix that this team has to do right away. Find ANY loophole in the NHL’s CBA to see if Sidney Crosby is playing in the wrong district. (ok last Mighty Ducks reference I promise)(Actually I can’t promise that at all.....) It seems that this teams most PRESSING need right now is Justin Schultz. He’s a highly regarded prospect out of the University of Wisconsin who has never signed a contract after 4 years in the Anaheim system, so his rights are about to be released to the open market. And if I were him, I would hit the open market. It’s unfortunate for the Ducks but really – how can you allow this to happen. Supremely dropping the ball and now they’re missing out on a prized free agent. After Schultz they need to decide if they’re committing to Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Bobby Ryan. Perry and Getzlaf’s contracts are up so now is the time to either re-sign and extend them or perhaps consider other avenues. Oh – and also BEG AND PLEAD TEEMU to come back.

TJ Molland: If they can't sign Schultz they will really be kicking themselves. Having him with Sbisa and Fowler could finally establish a nice core of young defense that will grow together. Looking down the prospect line there is not a lot there that could even come close to replacing Schultz. With Perry, Getzlaf and Ryan what do you do? I mean they should all be 25+ goals 80+ points. Yet only one of them cracked 60 points last year, and Getzlaf only had 11 goals. That was as many as Tim Stapleton....yeah....not good. I imagine Anaheim's management holds off on signing them until at least mid season to see what they can provide. If they can't produce and you are far out of it maybe move them at the deadline for anyone named Charlie Conway......The cupboard is thin behind them though. Devante Smith-Pelly looks like he can play full time, and after watching Emerson Etem live earlier this year at a WHL game (in which he scored 3 goals and had an assist and completely dominated the game) he should get a good look from the big club this year. One thing the Ducks need to address is their scoring depth, but outside of pleading Selanne what do you think their options are?

Bik Nizzar: If Selanne hangs them up (honestly I think he EASILY has 2 years left in him) it is beyond a MASSIVE blow for this team. You mentioned Etem and Smith-Pelly and I like both of these players and they can really round out their top 6. Selanne is just SOOOOOO valuable on the power-play (28 of his 66 pts came on the PP) that his departure would cause a shuffle I don’t think they could recover from right away. I can’t believe I’m actually going to utter these words –2^nd line centre is a problem for them (cause I don’t think Koivu is that anymore) but MAYBE Olli Jokinen could help that *GULP*..... Another Finnish player to go with Selanne and Koivu. It’s not so much top 6 scoring that I worry about for this team, its bottom 6... Andrew Cogliano led that group with a whopping 26 points, and even he featured in the top 6 this year. The bottom 6 really has no identity.

You brought up the defense and yes they’ve got some highly touted pieces, but Cam Fowler absolutely needs to make a jump this year. You can’t be -53 after 2 seasons. You just can’t. I think Schultz is all but gone so we can figure him out of that core prospect group. So basically it’s Sbisa and Fowler, a 36 year old Lubomir Visnovsky, Francois Beauchimen (who admittedly plays a lot better in Anaheim than in Toronto) and Toni Lydman. That group looks like it’s gonna get scored on and scored on a LOT. They need someone to show Fowler the finer points of defending (think Drew Doughty and Rob Scuderi pairing. It’s worked wonders for Doughty), and if Barret Jackman hits the open market, he can be the guy and brought in at a good price for them. Finally goaltending – I like Jonas Hiller and he is the guy. But he doesn’t strike me as a guy who can play 73 games this year.... his goals against to begin the year was truly awful (and for those of us that owned him in Fantasy Hockey...... brutal) so bringing in a solid backup that isn’t Dan Ellis or Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers could help bring that 73 number down to a more reasonable 59-62.

TJ Molland: Hiller could use a somewhat of 1A behind him just to ease the pressure. Not entirely his fault though. You are right about the defense being mediocre at best. I had higher expectations for the Ducks last year but after looking at their roster....I really question why I did? They are a one line team that really lacks identity. With only 7 forwards signed for next year it will be easy to do an overhaul and bring in players to form the identity they so desperately need, but being a somewhat weak free agency class, they might not get so lucky in their signings. Semin could be an intriguing player for them. Will solve a lot of their scoring depth problems if they feel he can bring it every night. Jackman would be the ideal signing for the Ducks back-end. A proven stay-at-home defenseman that should ease the pressures on Hiller and show Fowler and Sbisa what the next level looks like. It’s going to be another tough year for the Ducks. And can I just say that I thought it would be unfathomable we would get through the Ducks without mentioning Coach Bombay? Did we really just do that?

Bik Nizzar: Or just adopt the Flying V as a strategy.

30 for 30 in 30 - Toronto Maple Leafs

**AS OF TIME OF WRITING**

TJ Molland: Hmmmmm, I will just start by saying there will likely be some bias in writing this, because like the majority of people who live outside Toronto, I too dislike the Maple Leafs. So in trying to be as neutral as possible I will refrain from making waffles jokes.

The city planned the parade in November and by February they were planning to parade OVER TOP of the team. So what happened? Well inconsistent goaltending, a lack of depth, and some poor defending are a nice place to start. So what do you do to fix it? A lot of things. And to make matters worse The team has no free agents coming off the books except Kulemin being a RFA. So he will likely return. Do you really want to go into the season with the same team that looked playoff bound only to wilt like an unwatered flower? But you have to start somewhere so why not try to fix the second worst defense in the league. The same squad that was ever so generous to opposing teams offenses last year, is all poised to come back and deliver more of what everyone has come to expect. Signing players looks to be almost out of the question (less than $8 mil in cap space to sign 5-7 players) so trade routes will be the option. But does anyone really want to do business with Burke? Bik you need to jump in here quick before I start to get on a real offensive tirade.


Bik Nizzar: It’s the same song and dance with this team – Play well early in the season, and just like leaves, come winter they wilt away and disappear.... until spring when they play well and remind everyone that they can be good, but by then it’s too late. There is enough talent on this team to make the playoffs, but they’ve done such a poor job putting massive funds into key positions for players who don’t deserve it. Tim Connolly and Mike Komisarek are making too much money AND have no-trade clauses. Mikhail Grabovski is making 5.5 million while Ryan Kesler, Patrice Bergeron and James Neal all make less than that. Just because the league needs 30 #1 centers – doesn’t mean you have a #1 center. And Mikhail Grabovski is not a #1 center. When you look at their payroll, you don’t really see ANY contract that jumps out to you and makes you say “wow – that’s a bargain!” They’ve propped up players on pedestals and tried to make them look better than they actually are. Matt Lombardi 3.5 million? Really?!

Nazem Kadri has shown he’s got some skill but I feel like he’s going to be undersized and over-worked as a #1 center and will be pushed out to the wing eventually. Joe Colborne is a tremendous prospect BUT the pressure of winning might make him the most attractive trade piece to acquire a goalie. This team’s first job has to be shedding salary, then figuring out goaltending, then centre.

TJ Molland: Bang on with that last line. The trouble is you usually have to package talent with the burden contracts and the Leafs can't afford that. I can see that with the players they have they COULD make the playoffs. But will they really be able to compete? Burke said he doesn't want to be a team that squeaks into the playoffs, but with the roster he has I don't know how you can see yourself as a legitimate contender. Time to focus though. Lets go with goaltending which has more holes than a bad movie (I wish I watched movies so I had a great analogy here....but I don't). Gustavsson is set to become an UFA and I don't know with his numbers and inconsistency that Toronto will really want him back. But when you look at the available free agents in the goaltending position there are not many better options. If the Leafs really want to sign a #1 goalie Tomas Vokoun is the only legitimate candidate. Scrivens has played well for the Marlies this past year so he may get a shot at the big club. Or you know....trade for Luongo...Or better yet, trade with Boston for Tuukka Rask back. You know, that guy you traded for Raycroft, who is playing for.....not the NHL... (thumbs up with huge sarcastic grin)

Bik Nizzar: I think the movie reference you were looking for was: The Leafs are a Michael Bay movie – a lotta money spent, but no real direction and it’ll be entertaining for better or for worse.

The checkered history of Burke and Gillis and the Canucks makes a Luongo trade probably unlikely but it’s also the 1 that makes the most sense. Burke has to recognize the pressure that’s on him and the team to make the playoffs, so if he can check his ego (also unlikely) and make this trade happen, it’s probably the best move for them.

You touched on the Rask trade (which to me is equal to if not worse than the Kessel trade) and it just goes to show that this team has taken shortcut after shortcut to try to build a winner and its hurting them now. Rask – Seguin – Dougie Hamilton could have been your core and that’s not even a stretch to say that could have happened. If they go ahead and make ANOTHER trade – what do you see in return for Luongo?

TJ Molland: For me it begins and ends with Jake Gardiner. He was quite the pleasant surprise for the Maple Leafs last year putting up 30 points in 75 games. I would probably ask for one of D'amigo, Colborne or Ashton as well. Maybe a little much to ask for and highly unlikely Toronto parts with Gardiner, but I don't see much else on this team the Canucks could use. Like we discussed the Leafs would probably want to dump a contract on us to ease some cap room, I just don't see any contract Vancouver would be willing to take back.

Speaking of bad contracts....wait, this whole e-mail set has been about bad contracts, but I digress....Colby Armstrong has all of a sudden jumped to the top of my bad contracts list. $3 million for a guy who had 3 points in 29 games, and played just over 9 MINUTES A GAME!! Multiply by 82, carry the one....yup $4065 per minute on the ice and a really nice pro-rated value of $352,941 per point. (Math is cool) /rant.

Before this gets to long can I just admit I don't see a fix for the longest playoff drought in the NHL? I guess you can ride out this season with the team you have and hope last years early season success repeats (without you know, the second half sucking) and you maybe contend for a playoff spot? It's a case of too many contracts still in play to really tweak the team. Wait a year until whomever you draft this year gets some experience, bring in a bunch more prospects and do a real face lift for 2013/14 when you have a lot of contracts come off the books.

Bik Nizzar: It really depends what they wanna build around. Gardiner by all accounts is that piece they wanna keep so any trade talk involving him is moot. They ARE building something (unlike the Islanders as we broke down earlier) with Gardiner, Phaneuf, Lupul, Kessel, (sorry Phil Kessel but you’re not a cornerstone – you’re an elite complimentary piece), Schenn, Kadri, Franson, Colborne, and Brad Ross (who I reckon will become a fan favourite for his toughness).

The defense didn’t help out the goaltending last year. James Reimer was ok before his injury but when your defense is comprised of J-M Liles and Mike Komisarek (both of whom aren’t at the same levels they once possessed) and Carl Gunnarson – you’re gonna have a bad time. I don’t think Franson was given enough time to develop and feature heavily on the team’s power-play so hopefully under Carlyle they’ll give him another chance. If their top 4 looks something along the lines of Gardiner-Schenn-Phaneuf-Franson, that’ll make Reimer look better, but when you’re financially committed to Komisarek and Liles, maybe getting a different goalie like Luongo makes them look better.

This all seems like it’s shaping up for more short-cuts for this team. Which if they’re going to go with the trade route they HAVE to be sure to keep draft picks. Brian Burke’s philosophy of moving picks has to stop and they need a continuous rebuild. So if we’re going with trades and since we keep bringing up Luongo for the Leafs, the Canucks now have a hole at Center with the departure of Cody Hodgson, someone like Joe Colborne could fit that role. But here’s another wrinkle... Rather than fix goaltending and commit to Reimer, what if they acquired a Center? Could they pry Thornton or Marleau out of San Jose for the right price?

TJ Molland: It's very likely. SJ could be a more willing trade partner, and may cost you a little less than Luongo. The same pieces I have mentioned before (again Gardiner probably won't be moved) will be the cost, so getting one of Thornton or Marleau is not totally out of the question. I have a feeling the Sharks will be more eager to move Marleau/Thornton than the Canucks move Luongo. If the Leafs can finally get a legit number one center you may see Kessel finally break the 40 goal mark (as hard as it is to say that) and see this team turn the corner into "Playoff Team". You make a great point in Burke not moving draft picks. This team has had a poor prospect pool for a long time and with your high end draft picks FINALLY coming to YOUR team, it would be ridiculous to try and move them for a quick fix.

30 for 30 in 30 - New York Islanders

**As of time of writing**

TJ Molland: I still don't know what to think about the New York Islanders. Their future looks very bright, but right now their team looks awful. They could potentially dress 6 players who are either on entry level contracts, or on their first year out of an entry level contract. Although I will say I am a huge fan of some of their prospects. Niederreiter, Hamonic, De Haan, Kabanov, Strome, all good young talents that, although maybe not yet, will be productive NHL players. The playoffs are possible... a year or two away not feasible til they make some front office changes though. The Islanders have not finished last in the Atlantic under Garth Snow once....ONCE.....his first year as GM. And since then they haven't had a 40 win season. I get rebuilding doesn't happen overnight, but when you are 6 years in and people are still laughing at you, you better hope something goes right for you this season. So Bik, are you going to defend another non-playoff bound team?

Bik Nizzar: Yes! The New York Islanders! I’ve been waiting on this team. Not because I’m excited to break down their team, but I wanna know what the Over/Under is for Wang (Charles Wang) jokes. I’ll set it at 9.5 (he wishes) – damn, already at 1.... You’re right though. This team is definitely suffering from a crisis of leadership. As much as Wang likes Snow, (haha I don’t think that fits but it’s still funny) he just doesn’t strike me as a guy who is fully capable of building a team. 


Now admittedly he’s put together some nice pieces but it all feels a bit disjointed. You have the 1 line of Moulson – Tavares – Parenteau which should be good for years to come, but Kyle Okposo still hasn’t really become what they expected when they drafted him 7^th overall 6 YEARS AGO. He scored 24 last year but was up and down (Goals per month from Oct-Apr: 0, 2, 4, 6, 1, 8, and 3). Frans Nielsen is nice but I think he fits in better as a 3^rdline center, so that leaves Josh Bailey in an awkward spot (who showed SOME promise last year but still feels like he was rushed into this role by Isles management and coaching staff). I don’t think Bailey can be that #2 Center. Thankfully they have Ryan Strome coming up, but even he feels 2 years away from being a major impact. I like what Brock Nelson might be able to bring, but again... still a bit off from his top level. 


Their defense is shaping up, led by Mark Streit. But again, here’s the issue – when their prospects hopefully emerge, (Hamonic leading the charge there followed by Calvin De Haan) Streit’s contract expires in 2013. Is he gonna stay to lead the blue-line? Oh and btw – haven’t even gotten to goaltending.... Goodness me what a mess.

TJ Molland: Hahaha that's how these things start. We take the teams that are a mess and rip them apart, then slowly get into teams we have nothing to talk about. Want to just say Parenteau is an UFA who may garner some attention from teams looking to get a little deeper on wing. I say it's very likely he stays on Long Island but that is still up in the air.

I'd like to talk Islanders goaltending but I am afraid the mention of Rick DiPietros name mi....oh yup he just pulled his groin. It's a good thing they signed Nabokov because that at least gives them one legit goalie to leave hung out to dry. (Also is there a goalie in their system that they DIDN'T use last year?) If DiPietro is unable to go at the beginning of the season a backup goalie should be a priority on the free agent wire. Anders Nilsson played well in his few appearances for the team and could be a viable option for backup. He may even steal the number one job.

With only 3 defenseman from last year still under contract for this year, defense has to be the big focus in the off season. Much like we touched on with the Oilers, some veteran presence will be needed. But unless it's a Ryan Suter I don't see them wanting to commit long term to anyone.

Bik Nizzar: This is gonna be strange but I kiiiiinda like it for them - Jason Arnott might have a role with this team. He could play that 2^nd line or 4^th line depending on the type of production they get out of him, but more so for his leadership capabilities. Help give their forwards an identity as well. The bottom 6 really isn’t filled out and he’d provide good grit and determination, all while showing the young players what it takes to carve yourself a solid career. The D crop of free agents is pretty weak I think outside of Suter and Carle. Wideman will be attractive to some teams, and if he wants to take the highest offer rather than best situation – with NYI’s cap room (nearly 30 million available – and that INCLUDES the 2.2 Cap Hit for the Alexei Yashin buyout– yes... THAT Alexei Yashin) they could make a ridiculous offer. After that, it’s really just a pick n’ choose scenario, and hope you hit something decent. Shane O’Brien, Matt Gilroy, Matt Hunwick are all potential candidates but it would still wind up being a hodgepodge defense. It’s also remarkable to think that this team has this much cap room considering how poorly they’ve spent their money. I wonder what could happen if Wang boned up (haha – 2) more cash to get the elite free agents and bring this SHOULD BE PROUD franchise, back to greatness.

You said it to begin the thread, the problems with this team stem from the top and with Garth Snow running the team, not necessarily into the ground, but in circles this team will continually be in that bottom 5-9 range. There’s a reason the Hockey Hall of Fame calls it the “Builders” category – and Garth Snow isn’t building much on the Island.

TJ Molland: They still have to pay Yashin for 4 more years too! I was sooooo hoping they would sign Yashin to play for them again just to watch the hilarity that ensued. We will have to wait and see how close to the cap ceiling (or floor) the Islanders want to be to figure out how the summer free agency will go for them. There isn't a lot of talent up for grabs so they might as well just piece together what they can to compete and hope the young talent shines. Oh and something something small something Wang something (3?).

Bik Nizzar: If they do let go of Garth Snow, they need to bring in Kevin Connolly (E from Entourage), as their next GM. Really bring this team into the limelight. Especially if they consider a move to Brooklyn to join the Nets of the NBA

30 for 30 in 30 - Montreal Canadiens

**AS OF TIME OF WRITING**

Bik Nizzar: Bienvenue à Montréal en tant que Bik Nizzar et TJ Molland continuer à rajeunir la LNH comme nous briser les Canadiens dans un autre 30 pour 30 à 30.

Cards on the table – I totally just Google translated that so if any of my French is incorrect, please correct it. As for the Habs – not gonna lie, I kinda like this team and I don’t think their position in the standings truly reflects how good this team can be next season. You’ve got some good building pieces, an attractive market for free agents, and a top pick. I see a bounce-back season...

TJ Molland: Uhhh oui oui? (my French is a little rusty)(also you cheater) Don't get too excited about the Canadiens next year. This team looks set up to be good in the future but they are still lacking some key pieces. Not to pick on them but Desharnais and Pacioretty are not the guys you want to be leading your charge. Great players, but I don't see them being able to carry an offense. Plekanec still needs a legit scorer on his wing (DO NOT SAY ERIK COLE). If they can bolster up the offense a little they could prove me wrong.

I actually am pretty fond of their defensive core but they are still maturing and it won't happen overnight. Gorges is going to emerge as a real leader on this team and he needs to keep the young guys like Subban and Diaz on the right path. Price's numbers will have to improve if they want any sort of sniff at playoff hockey. They could prove me wrong but I think they are still a couple years away.

Most importantly this off season though, will their coach speak French....because we all know that is the deciding factor in them winning the Stanley Cup.....right?

Bik Nizzar: I don’t even wanna get into discussing who the coach might be (because I don’t speak French so I don’t know if I can intelligently speak about who the coach might be...).

Contrast these following players:

Player A: 82 GP, 30 G, 34 A, +10, 25 PP Points, 251 Shots, 84 Hits, 20:28 Average Time on Ice

Player B: 79 GP, 33 G, 32A, +2, 9 PP Points, 286 Shots, 104 Hits, 18:15 ATOI

Player C: 82 GP, 32 G, 35 A, -10, 19 PP Points, 251 Shots, 124 Hits, 20:36 ATOI

Don’t those 3 players all look pretty close?! If I asked you to pick one of these players moving forward for your franchise and then told you Player B was 23 years old. Wouldn’t you give him a slight edge based on his upside? Player A is Patrick Marleau (turning 33 before next season), Player B is Max Pacioretty (24 during season), and Jarome Iginla (35 before season).

And just so you don’t think I’m skewing Pacioretty’s stats versus elder guys...

Player D: 78 GP, 38 G, 27 A, -8, 23 PP Points, 303 Shots, 215 Hits, 19:48 ATOI

That’s Alex Ovechkin (27 before season). Now that year for AO8 is obviously a bit of an aberration and well below his usual capabilities.... Here’s the point: Pacioretty is putting up those numbers with David Desharnais (They played EV Strength 20% of the time this year with Erik Cole on the other wing, who I don’t know why you dislike... A power forward that can skate REALLY well and pop in 35 goals). I don’t mind Desharnais but perhaps getting a more elite center is what’s best for Patch. If that’s his “ceiling” with Desharnais, I can see that being his “floor” when Montreal gets a legitimate #1 C.... and thankfully they pick 3rd and will have a chance to select either Mikhail Grigorenko or Alex Galchenyuk, let's give them Grigs

TJ Molland: I am by no means saying Pacioretty is a bad player. He can contribute offensively while playing responsibly in his own end. I just think the team can use a player who is a step above him in offensive capabilities. I want to see how he plays with expectations. And Erik Cole's numbers have been skewed by the players he plays with. Say what you want but his worst offensive season (where he wasn't hurt) was when he was in Edmonton without a legit #1 center to help inflate his stats. And it was a brutal season for him. But like I said, this could be a team that surprises me.

For a team that hasn't had a great draft reputation in recent years the prospect pool on this team has to excite you right? Leblanc showed some promise last year, Eller played well once given the chance. Add in whomever (correct usage? If so....nailed it) they draft this year and they should have a young core they can finally be proud of. I want your take on Price though. Is he good enough or are his inconsistencies going to be a problem?

Bik Nizzar: Erik Cole spent most of his time last year with Desharnais and Pacioretty and put up impressive numbers. He showcased that his speed hasn’t the least bit diminished, and can be an offensive threat. I don’t think wingers are their issue and really when you look at the pieces they have in comparison to the teams that we’ve already featured and will soon be featuring – they’re in a better position than nearly all of them. As for Carey Price, he’s the least of their problems. It could be said that he single handily put this team into 3rd to last #dubioushonors. The Habs had a league worst .297 Winning % in 1 goal games and 16 of those losses came in OT or the shootout. That number won’t once again be that low (to really illustrate how low that is – Carolina was 29th and they had a .341W%) and will bounce back towards the average, which if my math is correct, (sketchy at the best of times) was .511w% last season. Scoring was and will continue to be the issues (more on the defense below)

 So with a core of Price, Pacioretty, Subban, Gorges, Eller... plus a return of Andrei Markov (albeit you can’t really bank on his playing time – but if he does play it will vastly help their PP which was 28th in the league last year), the continued emergence of defenders like Alex Emelin (who was nothing but impressive in the 2nd half of the season) and Raphael Diaz. (Can we just start referring to him as a Ninja Turtle? We can? Okthaaaaanks) Oh and by the way – we’re still tacking on the likes of LeBlanc, Jared Tinordi, Nathan Beaulieu, Danny Kristo, Brendan Gallagher in their prospect ranks.

Gorges – Subban

Emelin – Markov

Tinordi – Diaz

Kaberle (gulp) – Beaulieu

That is a reasonable expectation of what their defense might look like next year and it’s arguably the best of the lottery teams.

This team is trending up and with the thin depth/erratic changes in the Eastern Conference; a return to the playoffs next year for Le Bleu, Blanc et Rouge wouldn’t surprise me in the least. And that’s just what they have under contract – What Free Agents do you think that might sign in the attractive market that is Montreal?

TJ Molland: This is where it gets real tough with the Canadiens. Their cap situation is going to be tight. Price, Subban, Diaz, Emelin, Geoffrion and Eller are all RFA's as of July 1st. And you have to imagine that the Canadiens will want to sign all of those guys. At the moment they have a little over $18 mil in cap space (so room to play) but those guys will take up probably close to $10 mil (ballpark numbers, I didn't figure out what each would get EXACTLY). That leaves you approximately $8 mil to make 5-6 signings. Good contracts to hard working players will be the key. Moen and Darche would be good players to bring back. Use this as an opportunity to get tougher though. Add a few guys like Greg Campbell, Dominic Moore or Paul Gaustad. Guys that will finally get rid of that "soft" label that has been surrounding this team for years (They're as tough as butter in the sun). I don't disagree with you that they will be better this year but playoffs I think is still a stretch. This is the one team I feel could prove me wrong though.

PS: I hope you took a breath somewhere in that enormous rant

30 for 30 in 30 - Columbus Blue Jackets

**AS OF TIME OF WRITING**

TJ Molland: Alright Bik, round 2, the CBJ. *heavy sigh* I literally don't know where to start....because this team was SO bad last year. The only major stat the team wasn't in the bottom third in was shots for. GF, GA, PP, PK, all awful. They finished 9 points back from EDMONTON! I had higher hopes for this team last year, as exhibited when I drafted 3 Blue Jackets in my work hockey pool (#instantregret). Their GM, Scott Howson, has thrown their best player under the bus, made several poor trades to fix previously made bad trades, and still they are going to allow him to call the shots. It's good they are bringing back Richards as coach so they can see what he is capable of doing with a full off-season to prepare the team but it’s a small positive drowned in despaire. So long story short, there....uh....may be a bright side...?.....maybe?

You know what, I will actually say there is. Their defense is shaping up rather well. Lead by Wisniewski, Tyutin and Johnson the defense should be alright. But when your team features only three....yes THREE 15+ goal scorers, you aren't exactly putting together a winning formula. Oh hey look, I found a place for us to start! How are the CBJ going to fix their goal scoring woes? Draft? Free Agency? Trade Nash?

Bik Nizzar: Ummm.... can we just skip Columbus – seriously........ Oh man what a mess – When you write Wisniewski as 1 of the first things about their team – you know you have a bad team. Ok the good things: Jack Johnson is a solid piece and now he’s the lead d-man on the team. I’m not a big fan of his but even I’ll admit he performed way better than I thought he would in the short stint to end the season. Hopefully they don’t “Brassard” Ryan Johansen (and yes I just used Derek Brassard’s name as a verb). You hope his potential doesn’t become as ruined as Brassard’s. I like John Moore, played a bit soft this year but still too early to say he’ll make it or won’t. I like Matt Calvert and Boone Jenner + David Savard has been a pleasant surprise for that franchise. So they have a few pieces coming together but still a far cry from a full team.

As for the bad: Rick Nash.... He’s not bad – but the situation that Howson created is beyond terrible. Nash obviously doesn’t wanna be there – Howson played it as if the team doesn’t want him there. So for the sake of your franchise, you’ve gotta move him. If I were them, off to San Jose he goes. If you could get Pavelski and another piece I think you do pretty well in that trade. The thing is if you trade the face of your franchise, most popular player, etc, how do you replace that and keep the fanbase still supporting your team? A player like Yakupov might be able to do that, but the bad luck continues as they pick 2nd. And it just gets worse for them when you look at the goaltending. Yikes. Steve Mason was at such a high point coming off his Calder Trophy and he’s taken such a catastrophic fall that I’m calling him “Humpty Dumpty” from here on out. Maybe if Edmonton takes Yakupov they look to trade down to grab 1 of the 3 highly touted goalies..

TJ Molland: For a man wanting to skip CBJ you sure ran on for a while there. You mention their prospect pool and there is some talent there for sure. I won't say they can "Brassard" Johansen, because Johansen is actually a capable player. Brassard was rushed to save a franchise that he had no business saving. Johansen has enough raw talent to at least not collapse completely. It is no question this team needs to be turned over to the young guys now though. You pray that Edmonton takes a d-man and then you take Yakupov and start the new face lift.

Bik Nizzar: Truth be told – their first solution may very well be firing Scott Howson, but for whatever reason they seem  content sticking with him and letting this mess continue. Moving Nash, again is catastrophic but seems like it’s the end of the road and the only logical solution is to move him and replenish. To get Yakupov you could move up to #1 with Edmonton and snag him and still acquire another 1st rounder if/when you move Nash.  Still this team has so many holes and long-term projects that it’s more than likely gonna be another dark year for the Blue Jacket fan (singular; because I can’t imagine there’s more than one).  It is hard to gauge their lineup next year without Nash in it, so that makes it difficult to see what they should target in free agency. Veteran leadership to show some of the younger players the ropes to set them up in the future would be ideal. They should put themselves in the hunt for guys they don’t have to over-pay for again (see Wisniewski, James). I dunno if they can take chances on players like Lee Stempniak, Chris Kelly and hope they can replicate previous production. As you said, too many problems to solve in one year and I got a feeling we’ll be doing their game plan next year early as well.
 

30 for 30 in 30 - Edmonton Oilers

The Extra Period is going to tackle 30 game plans for 30 teams in 30 days over June before NHL free agency starts on July 1st. Here we will tackle all the problems that teams face and try and solve them.....sorry, not try.....just....solve them. So why don't we just jump into it:


**AS OF TIME OF WRITING**

Bik Nizzar: With the first overall selection in the TJ Molland and Bik Nizzar 30 Plans for 30 Teams in 30 Days..... We select the Edmonton Oilers –after all they’re usually 1^st overall, except of course for their on-ice play. How is the natural hat-trick of 1^st overall draft selections not a bigger deal?!?! Gretzky has 50 hat-tricks and now Steve Tambellini has 1. Seriously Oilers, there are 29 other spots in the draft you can pick– lets figure out how they can move out of this spot in the future. Actually give Tamby 2 hatty’s now... just released his 3^rd coach. Catching up to 99!!!

TJ Molland: I totally read that in a ring announcer’s voice slowly turning into your sarcastic tone haha. Tambellini has some real big questions to ask, and I think it comes down to these 3. What do you do with the first overall pick? (Trade it, defenseman, forward) What do you do about the defense? And who is going to be the man behind the bench? The Oilers have shown a lot of promise but this year in particular is going to decide their identity moving forward. Personally I think this is a time to get a structured coach with maybe a few veteran d-men signings to finally give this team a solid foundation to work with. No one questions their offense (20th despite missing Hall and RNH for long periods of time) but their defense needs an upgrade. It's time to tackle that problem.

Bik Nizzar: Let’s start with the coach because you gotta figure they sort that out before the draft. Why not just embrace their defensive ineptitude and play some fire-wagon hockey and beat teams 7-5? Now I don’t mean forget playing defense.... I mean – HIRE MARC CRAWFORD!!! (As I wrote that down I realized it's essentially the same thing) Seriously, who would you rather have around your young stars – Ron Wilson, Jacques Martin or Marc Crawford? Why not bring some flash and fun to your team and let your players enjoy playing hockey. But in reality it appears Brent Sutter is the lead candidate (Calgary Sun). And it does make a lot of sense. He’s got a good rapport with young players, obvious NHL experience, and perhaps best of all... He’ll be in Alberta.

TJ Molland: I love the idea of "fire-wagon" hockey or as I like to call it "Atlanta Thrashers" hockey. We will score 6 times a night and just hope you...uh....don't score 6 times? Might finally be the key that draws in free agents though. A high tempo offensive game with some freedom in the offensive zone. Finally a reason to go to Edmonton! Sutter does make a lot of sense as far as putting together a structured team that can compete night in and night out. If you are looking at the teams that made it far in this year’s playoffs you see that defense complimented with some offensive pieces is the formula. It would be thrilling to see Crawford coach again with high end offensive talent (a la Canucks early 2000's) but it just doesn't look like a winning formula in today's NHL. So let’s say Sutter is the man, you have to figure they finally go with a defenseman with the top pick? We have seen a lot of success with young d-men over the last couple years (Myers, Doughty, Del Zotto, Larsson). Murray or Dumba would be a nice piece to have.

Bik Nizzar: We’ll go Sutter until Kevin Lowe tells us otherwise.... (The Edmonton Journal did profiles on other candidates back in March... Click here, and here for some of my favourite candidates). Ok the draft. It seems CRAZY to pass on Nail Yakupov. A lot of teams struggle to find the pieces for secondary scoring... Now bringing in Yakupov doesn’t mean Edmonton will always score... but it does give them RNH, Hall, Eberle, Yakupov.... The pieces will be there, just up to them to produce. If they want to go defense though (which they should probably do, and I think they should do) I just don’t know how you don’t move back a spot. Murray or Dumba (I’d probably take Murray ahead of Dumba). Taking a d-man at #1, while makes sense for the franchise – it isn’t maximizing value. And the last thing you want is a fan base groaning when everything else seems optimistic (Youthful explosive core– new arena). Best player available or best for the franchise?

They can go Yakupov and try to sort their defense out via Free Agency. They’ve got cap space to work with currently with $42 million committed for next year (btw can’t believe they’re paying Horcoff until 2015 and 1 more year of Souray buy-out #winningstrategy). We can forget about Ryan Suter because he’s not going there, but there is a lot of buzz regarding 21 year old University of Wisconsin product Justin Schultz. Teams seem to think they’ve got the inside track on him (Detroit, Vancouver most notably), but he might not be a key contributor right away but really neither would Murray or Dumba. Here’s a thought, trade the 1^st overall pick – to say Pittsburgh for Jordan Staal.

TJ Molland: Makes sense to drop down a spot or two. You still get the player you want and probably some other asset in trading the #1 pick. Their defense does have enough parts already that they can fill the holes with free agency, but there isn't much top-end talent available in this year’s crop (Rozsival, Jackman, Kubina). Even more reason to take Murray. Realistically the Oilers should grab a couple of the middle of the pack defenseman such as Oduya or Carle to help the young players on the back-end mature and improve. Then they hope they can fight for a bottom playoff spot. As long as they can compete night in and night out you have to imagine that is the goal for this team. The Stanley Cup is still a few years away....which is scary to say because if they make the right moves NOW it may ONLY be a few years away.....As a Canuck fan it's going to be tough to watch their young stars improve, and get more dangerous as they start to become relevant again in the Western Conference.

I guess the last question to answer is who do you put between the pipes? Re-sign Dubnyk and finally hand the reigns to him?

PS: $5.5 million for Horcoffs 34 points as a now third line center.......eeeeeeeewwwwwwwwwww

Bik Nizzar: Carle is going to be the 2nd most sought after free agent defenseman after Suter, so if Edmonton were to somehow land him that would be a real coup on their part, I don’t see it happening though. I’m not a big Oduya fan, but I am a big Canucks fan – so sure let’s have the Oilers sign Oduya. Perhaps someone more like a Greg Zanon might fit their mold. There isn’t much in the UFA d-man pool. They’ll carry Whitney (who I think has a bounce-back year), Smid, Schultz, Barker, Sutton, Peckham, Teubert, Petry into next year. If you can add in some more stable depth plus a developmental d-man, (a Murray/Dumba scenario) I think that could be a viable NHL defense in 2 years time. Ideally it plays out that Teubert, Smid, Petry continue to advance, add 1 younger elite piece and you still have a Vet like Whitney.

If this were a multiple choice test and Devan Dubnyk was the question........ I would just choose “C” and hope I guessed right.

Some Scary Canucks Numbers

After the somewhat shocking first round exit by the Vancouver Canucks, I thought I would put on my stats-hat and take a look back at their last 10 playoff games. Now keep in mind these were the final five games against Boston in the SCF last year (after being up 2-0 in the series), and the five games against LA this year. I know the team had some different players but the core was pretty much the same, and as you can see, so were the terrible numbers.

Canucks last 10 playoff games:

• 2-8 record
• GF: 13 - including being shutout 3 times
• GA: 33 - Gave up 4 or more goals 6 times
• Have scored more than 1 goal only 4 times
• Given up 4 or more goals 6 times
• Lost last 4 home playoff games
• PP - 4/46 (8.7%)

And here are the leaders of this team over their last 10 playoff games:

H Sedin - 6 pts
D Sedin - 4 pts (7 games)
R Kesler - 3 pts
A Edler - 2 pts (has only been + once in last 10 games)
A Burrows - 1pt

Oh snap why did i do that Not that pretty. I am not here to imply that this team needs to be blown up or dismantled. I merely was looking at stats and was blown away with some of the numbers I saw. Curiosity escalated and now the sad reality is settling in. Just look at those ugly numbers.....look at them...


** All stats provided by nhl.com

TJ MOLLAND

How Crosby is hurting the Pens

They have been beaten on the ice, on the scoreboard and in their heads. The Pittsburgh Penguins have flat out come unraveled in their opening playoff series against the Philadelphia Flyers. A big reason has to be their captain, and the best player in the league, Sidney Crosby.

First off I want to say it is good to see Sidney sticking up for himself. But there is one problem with that, and it has to do with the "code". It's an unwritten rule in hockey that every tough guy knows. Touch our superstar, and you will have to answer to me. Here's why it is hurting the Pens more than they know.

Each time Crosby gets involved in the post whistle scrums he is forcing one of his teammates to answer a bell they never rung. You love to see players sticking up for their teammates (especially when he is regarded as the best in the world) but is it worth the cost? You can almost directly attribute both of Letang and Adams game misconducts in game 3 to Crosby stirring the pot.

After Crosby took a couple whacks at Bryzgalov's glove after he covered the puck, a scrum ensued. No big deal it happens in playoffs. But then he sweeps Voracek's glove across the ice as he goes to pick it up. Alright, now you have to answer for your actions. Timonen slashes the stick out of his hands and they start to wrestle. Here is where Crosby is hurting his team. Letang knowing it's Crosby in there, feels the obligation to go and challenge Timonen and show him you can't do that to their superstar.

RESULT: Letang takes a game misconduct and is out of the game only 12 minutes in.

Late in the game, Crosby gets tied up with Scott Hartnell in another post-whistle scrum. Craig Adams is on the ice, and seeing Crosby in a tussel, feels the need to jump in and show Hartnell a lesson.

RESULT: Adams takes an instigator penalty and earns himself a game misconduct. Being in the final five minutes of the game he also received an automatic one game suspension.

That is two players directly linked to Crosby's actions, that were sent to the dressing room early. Not what you want out of your best player. It's one thing to have your teammates step up for YOU, it's another when you are putting them in positions that will hurt the TEAM.

TJ MOLLAND

Playoff Preview - West Edition

After breaking down the East we will shift gears out towards the West

#1 Vancouver v. #8 Los Angeles

Offense: The Canucks sit 5th in goals for while LA sat 29th. Not much to be said here. The Kings offense needs to find out what is going wrong and fix it if they have any hope of moving past this series. With D. Sedin out for at least game 1 the Canucks offense took a huge blow. The foot soldiers helped out during the regular season but the guys relied upon to score goals will need to make sure they are on their game too.

Advantage Vancouver


Defense: Here things are a little closer. The Kings finished with the better numbers but provide little offensively for the team. But the Canucks can ice 6 defensemen who all finished even or better in the +/- department. On paper you would take the Canucks but LA has found a way to make it work.

Advantage None


Goaltending: Two of the games elite will face off as Jonathan Quick will battle Roberto Luongo. Quick put up spectacular numbers this season and is a big reason the Kings even made the playoffs. Luongo has been stellar down the stretch and deserves to start amid the Canucks "goalie controversy". Goals might be tough to come by in this series

Advantage Los Angeles


Special Teams: The Canucks once again sit near the top in both PP and PK. Although they have had real struggles with the man-advantage lately they still finished 4th in the league. The loss of D. Sedin again plays a factor that could mean a big difference in this series. LA compares with a slightly better penalty-kill but their power-play was not as potent as had hoped.

Advantage Vancouver


X-Factor: The goaltending duel will be a major factor in this series. There is no doubt Quick can steal games for the Kings (which he will almost HAVE to do)and that is sometimes enough to steal a series. The Canucks can fall back to Schnieder if things go awry, but if it comes to that it might be too late.

Result:

Vancouver in 6

---------------------------------------------------------------------

#2 St. Louis v. #7 San Jose

Offense: When you get good goaltending you don't need to score much. Seems to have worked for the Blues. With no superstar scorers they rely on everyone chipping in when they can. San Jose counts on their superstars carrying the load with very little help from the bottom half of the roster. Neither team is known for their prolific goal scoring.

Advantage San Jose


Defense: Since Hitchcock took over the Blues and implemented his defensive style the Blues have ascended the ranks in the NHL. Shattenkirk and Pietrangelo both had breakout years not only offensively but defensively. The Sharks do a good job of blending good offensive point-men with stay-at-home staples. This series could be very tight checking and not break character.

Advantage St. Louis


Goaltending: Not very often do you have two of the top 5 goalies in the league. How that translates to the playoffs is not really known. It is likely Elliott gets the start as he had better numbers, although there is no real wrong choice here. Former Stanley Cup Champion Antti Niemi will once again be asked to carry the load for the Sharks. He knows what it takes and gives his team a chance every night.

Advantage St. Louis


Special Teams: Funny how the Sharks will have the second best PP yet the second worst PK. This can prove to be a difference maker for the Sharks. They need to capitalize on their chances and make sure they are playing disciplined hockey to not give the Blues a chance. Scoring could prove difficult against the #7 penalty-kill that the Blues possess, however St. Louis doesn't boast the most threatening power-play which is good news for SJ.

Advantage St. Louis


X-Factor: This could be the final year the Sharks core guys have a shot at a long run. After years of disappointment and mediocre playoff performances they are starting to see the window close. Just sneaking into the playoffs this year might be the awakening the veterans need to realize how short that window can be. They need to finally show some battle and heart.


Result:

St. Louis in 5

---------------------------------------------------------------------

#3 Phoenix v. #6 Chicago

Offense: Chicago has an explosive offensive core with lots of individual talents who have been here before and know what it takes to win. Not having Toews to start the series is concerning, although the Blackhawks have scored fine without him. Phoenix's coach Dave Tippet somehow in someway makes average players play above their heads. But with only three 20 goal scorers it will have to be done by committee in the offensive zone.

Advantage Chicago


Defense: Phoenix plays a tight checking real defensive game and that is what allows them to win games. They won't get much offensive production out of the top 6 D but you can bet they take care of business in their own end. The Blackhawks struggled for much of the year in their own end. Not certain individuals just as a whole. The addition of Oduya at the deadline helps stop the leaking for now.

Advantage Phoenix


Goaltending: Mike Smith went from castaway to stealing the show. The Phoenix netminder put up outstanding numbers in his first year with the club. Chicago meanwhile continues to try and find a solid number one guy. Crawford has had some shakey moments and Emery provided times of relief but did not steal the job away. This could be Chicagos real downfall.

Advantage Phoenix


Special Teams: Both teams PP ranked in the bottom 5 in the league, more of a surprise for Chicago than Phoenix. The difference comes in PK numbers. The Hawks finished again in the bottom 5 but it was the Coyotes who have the only special team not dwelling in the cellar, sitting 8th in PK. Both teams will be hoping for lots of 5-on-5 action.

Advantage Phoenix


X-Factor: Chicago needs to plug the holes in the back end that are nearly sinking the ship. Good news is they aren't facing a potent offense. If that offense starts to score more than it should the Hawks could find themselves not making it out of the first round for a second straight year. Their experience will have to make up for the poor defensive display this year.


Result:

Chicago in 6

---------------------------------------------------------------------

#4 Nashville v. #5 Detroit

Offense: Both teams put up similar numbers offensively this season. This is new territory for the Predators who are normally offensively lacking. The late season addition of Radulov adds more firepower to an already balanced attack. Detroit still has claim to two of the most gifted forwards in the league in Zetterberg and Datsyuk but the supporting cast has done more than it's share this year.

Advantage Detroit


Defense: The bread and butter for the Predators, who have the best shutdown pairing in Suter and Weber. With most of the team bought into the defense first mentality it becomes very difficult to score. Lead by the immortal Nick Lidstrom and Selke staple Datsyuk, goals have just always been difficult to score against the Red Wings.

Advantage Nashville


Goaltending: Pekke Rinne has established himself as a top 3 goaltender in this league. Night after night he gives his team the chance to win. He is a big body who can move quick, a deadly combination for a man stopping pucks. Howard has had a good year as well but he doesn't seem to steal games the same way Rinne has been known to do.

Advantage Nashville


Special Teams: Nashville is one of the few teams that can claim top 10 PP and top 10 PK. A big reason for their success is the way they win games in every department. There are very few weak spots on this Nashville squad. Detroit on the other hand struggled in both aspects of the special teams this year not finising in the top half in either. A real contrast between the two teams.

Advantage Nashville


X-Factor: Nashville has put a lot of it's eggs in one basket this year in hopes they can finally make a deep playoff run. It is just unfortunate that they have to start the run against a team that noone can remember the last time they DIDN'T make the playoffs. They need to stick to their game and their system and if they do that they shouldn't have too much trouble with a Red Wings team that is starting to show it's age.


Result:

Nashville in 7

TJ MOLLAND

Playoff Preview - East Edition

Thought I would take the time to do a quick break down of what to expect for the 2012 NHL Playoffs. Let's start with the East.

#1 New York v. #8 Ottawa

Offense: The Rangers didn't have to rely on heavy scoring to win games, and they probably won't rely on it much in the playoffs. Ottawa on the other hand is the opposite. A run-and-gun shoot 'em up style that earned them the 4th best offense in the league. But it's a lot different when you shoot on Henrik Lundqvist night in and night out.

Advantage Ottawa


Defense: The blue-shirts are one of the top shot blocking teams in the league and boasted the 3rd best defense in the league. Ottawa on the other hand struggled to keep the puck out of their net. If defense wins championships this pick becomes a no brainer.

Advantage New York


Goaltending: Despite Senators goalie Craig Anderson posting 33 wins, his offense bailed him out on most nights. His numbers aren't awful but they will need him to step up his game for any chance of an upset. At the other end of the rink the most consistent goalie in the NHL, "King" Henrik. A GAA below 2.00 and a SV% of .930 are mind blowing for a man who started 62 games.

Advantage New York


Special Teams: The contrast between offensively driven and defensively sound also shows up in the Special Teams debate. Ottawas PP finished just outside the top 10 but their PK finished in the bottom third. The opposite for the Rangers who struggled real bad on the PP but posted a top 5 PK.

Advantage None


X-Factor: This series will ultimately be decided by who can compensate most for their faults. The Rangers need to find a way to score, while the Sens need to make sure they aren't giving up too many chances like they are prone to do.


Result: When it comes down to it defense does win championships. So you have to like the Rangers. They contended for the Presidents Trophy for a reason.

New York in 5

---------------------------------------------------------------------

#2 Boston v. #7 Washington

Offense: Lots of punch in this series. The Bruins boast one of the deepest offensive lineups in the league while Washington goes to it's heavy hitters in a top heavy offense. One has to wonder what the Caps will do if the Bruins manage to shut down Ovechkin, Backstrom and Semin.

Advantage Boston


Defense: The Bruins are once again one of the perennial shutdown teams in the league. With Chara leading the D corps and Bergeron once again getting Selke talk it's tough to score goals on them. Washington once again struggled in their own end and it's a big reason they just squeaked into the playoffs.

Advantage Boston


Goaltending: Since he refused to go to the White House Tim Thomas has struggled. His numbers were still good and if he falters Rask can step in seamlessly. Washington is down to Braden Holtby will get the nod for the Caps, due to the fact Vokoun and Neuvirth are both hurt. Not what you want come this time of year.

Advantage Boston


Special Teams: Neither team had exceptional years in the special teams department. But when it comes down to it, Boston still finished in the top half of the league in both PP and PK, while Washington finished in the bottom half.

Advantage Boston


X-Factor: Can Ovechkin find that next gear. Not that he has been a BAD playoff performer, he just needs to be more of a factor. You can bet he and Chara will get lots of face time and from what I have seen lately from Ovi, I will take Chara.


Result:

Boston in 4

---------------------------------------------------------------------

#3 Florida v. #6 New Jersey

Offense: Don't expect this to be a high scoring series. Neither team is known to light the lamp and when they do it is from the same company every time. Florida relies too much on offense from the defense which may be the downfall come playoff time. The depth just isn't there.

Advantage New Jersey


Defense: Both teams found ways to win games by not giving up a whole lot of goals. It was the sole reason the Panthers made it to the top of the division. While it may not have been elite defending it was good enough. The Devils core is full of stay at home defenders and when the other team has troubles scoring, you don't need to worry about match ups.

Advantage New Jersey


Goaltending: On one end you have one of the best of all time, and at the other you have a goalie resurrecting his career. Martin Brodeur has not put up the numbers he once did but the man has been here time and time again. The questions will come from whether or not Theodore has become a goaltender who can win a series for his team. Because he will likely have to.

Advantage New Jersey


Special Teams: The PP for both teams produced well, the difference comes in the PK. While the Devils have the top PK in the league, the Panthers struggled finishing near the bottom of the league. If NJ gets the PP going there may be no way to stop the bleeding for the Panthers.

Advantage New Jersey


X-Factor: Florida was cut and pasted together in the off season while surprising many with their Division win, and their first playoff appearance in 10 years. The Devils don't boast the once veteran squad that earned them many Stanley Cup Finals appearances but have enough to keep the team in check.


Result:

New Jersey in 6

---------------------------------------------------------------------

#4 Pittsburgh v. #5 Philadelphia

Offense: Malkin, Crosby, Neal, Giroux, Hartnell, Jagr. The talent is endless up front for these teams. There will be no shortage of fire-works in what should be the most exciting series of the first round. The simple math of it is, when you have Crosby and Malkin, it's tough to bet against your offense. Phili's depth is impressive enough to compete but the Pens have the slight advantage.

Advantage Pittsburgh


Defense: The Flyers were hit hard by the injury bug on the back-end and it showed. But some late season additions and the impressive showing from several of their depth players has kept them in contention. Bad goaltending at the beginning of the year was a real factor in their poor GAA. The Penguins did not play as defensively well as they had hoped and it could be troublesome against a deep Flyers team.

Advantage Philadelphia


Goaltending: MA Fleury had another strong season. Not the numbers he would like to see but stellar enough. On the opposite end of the rink the biggest goalie signing of the off-season took a while to find his stride, but the final few months of the season showed why he was worth the money.

Advantage Pittsburgh


Special Teams: Pittsburgh finished in the top 5 in both PP and PK. Impressive considering they missed Letang and Crosby for lengthy periods of time of the year. Philadelphia finished with the same PP% but finished WAY back in the PK department. An issue that is sure to come up against a Pens squad that is dangerous on the man-advantage.

Advantage Pittsburgh


X-Factor: Playing the same people every second night for two weeks is going to generate some hate. It's already here with this series. It is going to get violent, it is going to get ugly and I feel bad for whoever manages to stand atop the rubble at the end. Whoever can keep their focus and discipline will win the series.


Result:

Philadelphia in 7


TJ MOLLAND