2023-24 Season Focus: Montreal Canadiens

Posted on September 13, 2023 by Derek

ATLANTIC DIVISION

Montreal Canadiens (8th)

Record: 31-45-6 68 Pts

Missed the playoffs

Key Subtractions: Mike Hoffman (traded to Sharks), Jonathan Drouin (signed with Avalanche), Joel Edmundson (traded to Capitals), Rem Pitlick (traded to Penguins), Alex Belzile (signed with Rangers), Denis Gurianov (signed with Predators)

Key Additions: Alex Newhook, Casey DeSmith, Gustav Lindstrom

Overview: It was a very tough season for the Canadiens. With it evident that franchise goalie Carey Price played his final game due to injuries, the net was turned over to Jake Allen. But it was the surprising play of Sam Montembeault that boosted hopes. He won a career high 16 games in 39 starts.

Allen and Montembeault shared the goalie duties under coach Martin St. Louis. At least it was more stable than the previous season. If only they had stronger support. With mostly a young defense, the Habs struggled with consistency.

They at least got a good performance out of Mike Matheson. He produced a career best 34 points after coming over from Pittsburgh. He will need to play more than 48 games in 2023-24. He’s a key to the offense from the back end. Matheson will play even strength and power play.

Ex Blue Jacket David Savard was alright in his first year as a Canadien. He’s a no frills type who can chip in occasionally while blocking shots.

Montreal is hoping Kaiden Guhle can continue his progression. The former first round pick provided some offense in his first season. He had four goals and 14 assists totaling 18 points over 44 games. He definitely has some skills. The Habs should use him quite a bit on the man-advantage.

Arber Xhekaj was a welcome surprise. The 22-year-old defenseman plays the game with high intensity. He uses his size to deliver thumping hits and is a willing combatant when the opportunity arises. It isn’t surprising that Xhekaj became a fan favorite. He might have some untapped potential. We’ll see if he can do better than 5-8-13 he had in 2022-23.

Johnathan Kovacevic became a trusted player on the blue line. He played in 77 games as mostly a third pair guy. He and Jordan Harris are holdovers from last year. Justin Barron is a former Avalanche first round pick that got into 39 games.

The Canadiens acquired Gustav Lindstrom from the Red Wings in exchange for Jeff Petry. The Habs re-acquired him as part of the three-team trade that invoiced Erik Karlsson going to the Penguins. Mike Hoffman was sent to the Sharks. Montreal also added Casey DeSmith from the Pens to help solidify them in goal.

Lindstrom never really developed in Detroit. The 24-year-old Swede is a former second round pick who’s at a crossroads.

Offensively, the Canadiens relied heavily on the top line of Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Kirby Dach. Caufield was on a tear with 26 goals in 46 games before shoulder surgery ended his season. He probably would’ve hit 40 in Year Two.

The Canadiens wasted no time getting Caufield signed to a new eight-year contract that’s worth $62.8 million. The average cap hit is $7.85 million for the 22-year-old Wisconsin product. He should fill it up both at five-on-five and on the power play. The diminutive Caufield is an exciting player who has flourished under Martin St. Louis.

Suzuki is the captain. A good all-around player, the number one pivot registered career highs in goals (26), points (66), and shorthanded goals (3). He also had 42 takeaways compared to 52 giveaways. It won’t be long before he puts it altogether.

When they acquired Dach from Chicago, it was a smart move. He started to prove them right before his season was cut short due to injuries. St. Louis shifted him to the wing, which allowed Dach to move up to the top line. He achieved career highs in goals (14), assists (24), points (38), and power play points (6-10-16). He can play in every situation, including on the penalty kill.

In order for them to compete in a deep Atlantic Division, the Canadiens need more production from the supporting cast. Adding former Avalanche first round pick Alex Newhook should help. On a new team, he’ll have a more defined role. Perhaps a scenery change will work like it did for Dach.

Josh Anderson is a good top six forward who can score 20 goals and play a rugged style. They’ll need more from Christian Dvorak and veteran Brendan Gallagher. Unfortunately, Gallagher has seen better days. His tenacious style might’ve caught up.

The Habs are banking on 2022 top pick Juraj Slafkovsky to have a better season. In 39 games, he had four goals and six helpers. Only 19, hopefully Slafkovsky can come back a better player. He must prove why they took him number one overall.

Vets Sean Monahan and Joel Armia are solid secondary scorers who provide energy. Monahan was good before another setback ended his season. In a contract year, he’ll look to produce and stay healthy. Armia is your classic gritty player with good speed who can play anywhere. But he’s making $3.36 million on the cap through 2025. If they fall out of it, maybe the Habs find a taker for him.

Rafael Harvey-Pinard surprised many by scoring 14 goals in 34 games. He was a pleasant addition. If he can continue that form, then Montreal fans will have a love affair with the overachiever.

Jake Evans and Jesse Ylonen are depth players who can play on a supporting line.

Joshua Roy had a good showing at last year’s World Junior Championships helping Canada repeat with five goals and six assists. A former fifth round pick in 2021, maybe he can be a young player who develops into a good option. He enters his first pro season.

When the Habs took defenseman Logan Mailloux at the end of the first round in 2021, there was plenty of criticism due to his off-ice issues. He served a suspension in the OHL due to an incident involving a young woman he engaged in sexual acts with in Sweden during 2020-21.

Mailloux didn’t want to get drafted, opting to focus on improving himself. But the Canadiens picked him anyway. That led to a public outcry. Montreal owner Geoff Molson called him a “good kid who made a big mistake.”

Last season, he posted 25 goals and 28 assists in 59 games for the London Knights. Named an OHL Second Team All-Star, he added 24 points (8-16-24) for a new team record by a defenseman. Mailloux remains an interesting prospect. He enters his first pro season with Laval. We’ll see how it all shakes out.

Analysis: If the top line stays healthy, they’ll be one to watch on the highlight reel. They have superb chemistry and complement each other well. It really hinges on the secondary players to perform.

The defense remains a question mark due to no real top guy. They must be better in the system to take some pressure off the goalies. They can’t be asked to do it alone.

Prediction: It’s awfully hard to see this roster doing better than 35 wins. A lot of it has to do with the division they play in. There aren’t any pushovers. This isn’t to say the Habs won’t play hard. They will because they believe in what MSL is selling. He makes the game fun for players. That will help. Anything between 75 to 80 points would be a step in the right direction.

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Mets feeling hockey with surprise celebration song for Ronny Mauricio on Hockey Jersey Night

Posted on September 12, 2023 by Derek

Later this month, training camps begin for the area locals. With the Mets playing out the string in a disappointing season, they gave some hockey fans a little treat during their 7-4 home win over the Diamondbacks at Citi Field.

Finally, playing top prospect Ronny Mauricio, the Mets are getting a glimpse of the future. The second baseman has hit well since debuting. In the home fourth inning tonight, Mauricio hit his first career major league home run off Arizona starter Ryne Nelson.

It was a moon shot that landed into the second deck. The lefthanded hitting Mauricio drove the pitch 440 feet into the back row of the Coca-Cola corner. Personally, I preferred the Pepsi porch. But that’s what you get these days with corporate sponsors.

As Mauricio was rounding the bases in celebration of his first big league home run, the Mets decided to go with a familiar hockey theme song to commemorate the moment.

None other than the Rangers goal song played over the speakers for Mauricio’s majestic blast. It definitely was classic. I guess somebody likes hockey in the production department. It’s a pretty cool thing if you ask me.

UPDATED: Rangers’ friend Jan Levine informed me that it was part of a promotion. The Mets had Hockey Jersey Night at the ballpark.

Prior to the game, Jimmy Vesey exchanged jerseys with Mets’ first base slugger Pete Alonso. Vesey was there with Erik Haula and Cal Clutterbuck. They all threw out the first pitches.

With the way football started for both the Giants and Jets, who lost Aaron Rodgers for the season four snaps into a come from behind overtime win over the Bills on Monday Night Football, hockey seems like the logical choice for sports fans.

The good news is they’re about a month away from the beginning of the 2023-24 season. That’s why I’ve been previewing some teams in the Eastern Conference. Catch my Red Wings piece from Tuesday afternoon.

With no October baseball looming for both the Mets and Yankees, I can’t wait for hockey. It should deliver better storylines than what happened this summer.

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2023-24 Season Focus: Detroit Red Wings

Posted on September 12, 2023 by Derek

ATLANTIC DIVISION

Detroit Red Wings (7th)

Record: 35-37-10 80 Pts

Missed the playoffs

Key Subtractions: Dominik Kubalik (traded to Senators), Gustav Lindstrom (traded to Canadiens), Filip Zadina (signed with Sharks), Alex Nedeljkovic (signed with Penguins), Pius Suter (signed with Canucks)

Key Additions: Alex DeBrincat, Jeff Petry, J.T. Compher, James Reimer, Shayne Gostisbehere, Justin Holl, Alex Lyon, Daniel Sprong, Klim Kostin, Christian Fischer

Overview: Playing in a competitive division, the rebuilding Red Wings were inconsistent under new coach Derek Lalonde in his first year. The former Lightning assistant coach learned what it was like to be in charge of a team that hasn’t made the postseason since Red Wing greats Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg starred.

Although they picked it up following the All-Star break, they weren’t good enough to break a playoff drought that’s now up to seven years. Due to falling out of the race, gone are Tyler Bertuzzi and Filip Hronek. Each was moved by Steve Yzerman at the last trade deadline. He did well in adding a 2024 first round pick from Boston for Bertuzzi. Yzerman got both a first and second from the Canucks for Hronek.

After a disappointing first season back home, Andrew Copp needs to bounce back. Yzerman didn’t pay him handsomely to score single digits in goals and struggle with consistency. He needs to better support captain Dylan Larkin, who established new career highs in assists (47), points (79), and power play goals (16). Larkin continues to blossom into a complete player who will lead the way.

At least David Perron produced as expected. The veteran continues to be an asset who’s capable at even strength and on the power play. His top heavy shot remains a weapon on the man-advantage.

For the Red Wings to reach the playoffs, they’ll need both newcomers, Alex DeBrincat and J.T. Compher to supply the offense. They were both brought in to provide more scoring. DeBrincat got his wish when Ottawa dealt him to Detroit in the summer. Dominik Kubalik was part of the package that went the other way for the two-time 40-goal man. He got paid an average cap hit of $7.875 million through 2027. He better fill the net.

Compher was a key piece of the Avalanche when they won the Stanley Cup. A year after committing dollars and years to Copp, Yzerman went similar on the 28-year-old forward who managed a career best 52 points (17-35-52). That better not be an outlier. A solid secondary player, Compher will make an AAV of $5.1 million thru 2028. They’re counting on him to perform.

The Wings are hoping Robby Fabbri can return healthy. He should be a top nine forward, along with former Kraken Daniel Sprong, who might prove to be a good signing. He’s signed for a year and will make $2 million.

Lucas Raymond had a bit of a sophomore jinx. He got off to a bad start, struggling mightily. After posting 23-24-57 in his rookie year, he went 17-28-45 in Year Two. A good skater who can dangle, the 21-year-old remains a key player for the Wings. If he can put it altogether in a contract year, 30 goals is possible. We’ll see if he’s up to the challenge.

The depth should be supplied by Michael Rasmussen, Jonathan Berggren, and energizer Klim Kostin. Kostin was a solid contributor with Edmonton. He plays a gritty game. Signed for two years at two million per season, he should provide a spark to a roster that needs it. Kostin can score double digits and mix it up.

Much depends on the defense and goaltending. Mo Seider is the anchor of the blue line. Following a tough start, the former Calder winner had a strong second half. A physical force who also possesses the skills, Seider is the staple for the Winged Wheel.

They’re hoping that adding veterans Jeff Petry and Justin Holl, it’ll stabilize a blue line that wasn’t very good. Petry is more proven than Holl, who received a three-year deal at an AAV of $3.4 million with a moderated no-trade clause.

Ben Chiarot and Olli Maatta remain key cogs. Shayne Gostisbehere was brought in to provide offense. He’s always been able to score and set up goals. Defense has never been a strong suit. At least he’s only signed for 2023-24. He has a moderated NTC. So, they can always flip him next deadline.

There’s also Jake Walman and former first round pick Simon Edvinsson. Walman will have a role while Edvinsson is allowed to develop in the AHL.

If it seems like the Red Wings are overly reliant on vets, it’s because they are. We’ll see how it goes.

Ville Husso is the number one goalie. At one point last season, he was brilliant. However, the former Blue fell victim to the inconsistencies of the Red Wings. He also made a career high 56 starts in his third season. Husso finished 26-22-7 with a 3.11 GAA, .896 save percentage, and four shutouts.

Out is Alex Nedeljkovic. In are James Reimer and Alex Lyon. They should help provide Lalonde with better options to spell Husso.

Analysis: It’s tough to figure out if this overhauled roster will be good enough to qualify for the postseason. The scoring should improve.

The defense will be more essential to whether or not the Red Wings can climb the ladder in the Atlantic Division. There’s pressure to perform. Yzerman invested a lot of money in good players who aren’t stars. He also paid DeBrincat top dollar to score like one.

Is this a good enough roster to end the playoff drought?

Prediction: There’s no doubt that the Bruins and Lightning are more vulnerable. However, they’re well established. With the Panthers likely pushing the Maple Leafs, that leaves the Red Wings, Senators, and Sabres to challenge for a wildcard.

The divisional match-ups should matter. But there’s still not enough games due to the unbalanced schedule. You’ll still have some meaningful three – and four-point games.

Forty wins and between 85 to 90 points feels realistic. That won’t be enough to make the playoffs.

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2023-24 Season Focus: Ottawa Senators

Posted on September 7, 2023 by Derek

ATLANTIC DIVISION

Ottawa Senators (6th)

Record: 39-35-8 86 Pts

Missed the playoffs

Key Subtractions: Alex DeBrincat (traded to Red Wings), Derick Brassard (unsigned), Cam Talbot (signed with Kings), Nick Holden (unsigned)

Key Additions: Vladimir Tarasenko, Joonas Korpisalo, Dominik Kubalik, Zach MacEwen

Overview: It’s been a while since the Senators had a team capable of reaching the playoffs. However, all signs indicate that they’re headed in the right direction. Last season, a slow start hurt. However, they made strides during the second half to finish within striking distance of the postseason.

Given the young talent they possess, there’s a lot to like about the Senators. Boasting rising star Tim Stutzle, no-nonsense captain Brady Tkachuk, veteran Claude Giroux, Drake Batherson, Thomas Chabot, and newly minted Jake Sanderson, who signed an eight-year extension worth an average cap hit of 8.05 million through 2032, they have plenty of reasons to get excited about.

If Josh Norris can come back at full strength, that’s a center capable of scoring 30 goals or more. In 2021-22, he notched 35 in his second season. Shoulder surgery limited him to eight games last season. Norris is a key piece to the puzzle.

After Alex DeBrincat got his wish and was sent home to play for the division rival Red Wings for a package that included veteran Dominik Kubalik, the Sens signed veteran Vladimir Tarasenko to a one-year deal worth $5 million. A former Stanley Cup winner with the Blues, Tarasenko, should be a good replacement for DeBrincat. He’s betting on himself, which should make him highly motivated.

Ottawa also went out and added gritty forward Zach MacEwen. No stranger to mixing it up. He’ll add some toughness to the roster. That’s never a bad thing. Especially when you have a young team still looking to jump back into the playoffs.

Mark Kastelic plays a similar style. The Senators shouldn’t be pushed around. Mathieu Joseph had a tough year after coming over from Tampa. He only scored three times. A bounce back seems likely.

If they can get key restricted free agent Shane Pinto re-signed, that would be huge. He scored 20 goals in his rookie year. A good shooter, Pinto needs a contract due to playing parts of the previous two seasons. His entry-level contract expired. Problematic is that Ottawa has less than a million dollars left on the cap. Unless someone winds up on the long-term injured reserve, they’ll have to get creative.

Hopefully, Pinto won’t become a cap casualty like Alex Formenton did a year ago. He missed the entire 2022-23 season. He spent part of the year playing for Ambri-Piotta in the Swiss League.

In order for the Senators to make it, they’ll need more stability in the net. After an up and down year from veteran Cam Talbot, Ottawa decided to go into the market. They signed former Columbus goalie Joonas Korpisalo to a five-year deal worth $20 million. It’s definitely a high-risk move for a netminder who hasn’t proven he can carry a team.

They’re banking on Korpisalo to deliver. Anton Forsberg is a solid backup who is more than capable of handling 25 to 30 games. It’ll be an interesting tandem to follow.

The blue line is anchored by minutes logger Chabot. A defenseman who is trusted in every situation, he plays power play and penalty kill. They also boast former Coyote Jakob Chychrun. He’s still only 25 and should have plenty to give.

Sanderson has a big ceiling. The former 2020 first round pick started to make things happen in his rookie season. He finished with 32 points (4-28-32) in 77 games. Seventeen came on the power play.

When you have a healthy trio of lefties like they do, that’s a strong asset. Ottawa is counting on Artem Zub and Erik Brannstrom to handle the tough assignments in the top four. Travis Hamonic adds experience. Tyler Kleven is a former second round pick with eight games of experience.

Analysis: The Senators shouldn’t have any trouble scoring goals. They have the uber talented Stutzle and strong power forward Brady Tkachuk. With superb center depth, especially if Norris returns to form, this is gonna be a fun team to watch.

We’ll see if they can keep Pinto, who projects to be a 30-goal scorer. One wonders if they’d look to dangle him for more defensive help. Look at the roster. There’s established players in Giroux and Tarasenko. You have the overlooked Batherson, who continues to improve.

It’ll come down to the defense and goaltending.

Prediction: Playing in a deep division that’s on the upswing due to the improvements of Buffalo and Detroit, it’ll he an uphill climb for the Senators to go from 86 points to 95-96, which is the likely cut-off.

Can they do it under coach D.J. Smith? It’s hard to say. They haven’t exactly done as well as they can under Smith. The pressure is on. If they get out slowly, he could be on the chopping block. There are a few proven options if Ottawa has to go that route.

It’s hard to project this team. They can win 40-plus games. But are they good enough to make the playoffs for the first time since Erik Karlsson carried them within an eyelash of the Stanley Cup Finals in 2017? That remains to be seen.

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Former Ranger Del Zotto hangs up the skates

Posted on September 7, 2023 by Derek

At one time, Michael Del Zotto was lighting it up on Broadway as a rookie for the Rangers at MSG. That was in 2009-10, when the former 2008 first round pick scored nine goals and finished with 37 points as a 19-year-old.

Fourteen years later, Del Zotto announced his retirement on Instagram yesterday. Now 33, the Canadian from Stouffville, Ontario, is ready for the next chapter in his life. He put up a good post touching on the ups and downs of his 14-year career.

That included some life lessons. He learned a great deal about himself when the early stages of his career were at a crossroads. The nightlife in the Big Apple took a toll on him. Fortunately, he rebounded to save his hockey career.

Del Zotto also learned what was important. The off ice charity work he did became a big part of him maturing as a person. Although he might not have had the career many envisioned, he played in 736 NHL games with eight different teams.

Most of his success came early with the Rangers. They took him with the 20th pick in the 2008 NHL Draft. Making the team aa a teenager, he got off to a great start in New York City. Del Zotto flashed the superb skating and skill that made believers of the organization.

Some of his goals and rushes thrilled fans. At times, he was brilliant. But he struggled mightily in his second season. A year that saw him get sent down to Hartford. A clear message from coach John Tortorella helped Del Zotto learn a valuable lesson. He came back a better player in his third year.

It was in 2011-12 that he had his best season as a 21-year-old. In what was a very good season for the Blueshirts, Del Zotto paced them from the blue line with 10 goals, 31 assists, and 41 points in 77 games. He finished with a plus-20 rating.

In the playoffs, he had two goals and eight assists. The biggest goal he scored came in Game Seven of a second round win over the Capitals at The Garden. That proved to be the series clincher. The Rangers advanced to the Eastern Conference Final for the first time since 1997.

The script didn’t have a Hollywood ending. The Rangers lost to the Devils in the Conference Finals. Del Zotto struggled during the series. Unfortunately, those struggles continued the following two seasons. He wasn’t the same player.

By 2013-14 under Alain Vigneault, Del Zotto was traded to the Predators for Kevin Klein. While he struggled to find consistency in Nashville, Klein fit in seamlessly in New York. He helped solidify a strong defense. Along with the memorable acquisition of Marty St. Louis, the Rangers made a great run to the Stanley Cup Finals. They lost to the Kings.

As for Del Zotto, he wound up signing with the Flyers as a free agent after the Predators didn’t qualify him. They were willing to give him a shot. He repaid them with a good season in 2014-15. In 64 contests, Del Zotto finished with 10 goals and 22 assists for a total of 32 points.

Despite that success, he couldn’t duplicate it. He lasted two more years in Philadelphia. By then, he changed his game. No longer was he as focused on offense. Instead, Del Zotto played a bit better overall by blocking shots and finishing checks.

He would move onto Vancouver, where he spent over a year there before getting dealt to Anaheim. After playing just a dozen games, he was traded to the Blues in 2018-19. At the time, they had some guys out on the back end. So. They acquired Del Zotto for depth. He had three assists in seven games.

Once they were healthy, Del Zotto became a Black Ace. The Blues went on a special run to win their first Stanley Cup during the 2019 NHL Playoffs. Even though he never suited up, Del Zotto became a Stanley Cup champion. That definitely had to be special for him. Especially after his struggles.

He’d spend parts of three more seasons in the league as a journeyman. That included a return to Anaheim for 2019-20. He then moved to Columbus for a year. His final season came with Ottawa. He only played in 26 games but totaled 13 points. Despite that, he spent last season in the AHL with the Charlotte Checkers and San Diego Gulls. He played well for the Gulls, finishing with 31 points in 40 games.

Del Zotto concluded his NHL career with 63 goals, 199 assists, and 262 points. Nearly half that total came in NYC. As a Ranger, he played in 292 games and had 121 points (26-95-121). Fifty-six of those points came on the power play. An area where he excelled in the early phase of his career.

Now, he can spend more time with his family. Congrats to Del Zotto on a good career.

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2023-24 Season Focus: Florida Panthers

Posted on September 6, 2023 by Derek

ATLANTIC DIVISION

Florida Panthers (4th)

2022-23 Record: 42-32-8 92 Pts

Lost to the Golden Knights for the Stanley Cup

Key Subtractions: Anthony Duclair (traded to Sharks), Radko Gudas (signed with Ducks), Marc Staal (signed with Flyers), Alex Lyon (signed with Red Wings), Givani Smith (signed with Sharks), Patric Hornqvist (retirement), Eric Staal (unsigned), Colin White (unsigned), Chris Tierney (signed with Devils)

Key Additions: Evan Rodrigues, Niko Mikkola, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Mike Reilly, Anthony Stolarz, Steven Lorentz, Kevin Stenlund, Rasmus Asplund (two-way deal)

Overview: After struggling to find consistency for most of last season, the Panthers hit their stride down the stretch. Led by Matthew Tkachuk, they got hot at the right time. Able to squeak into the playoffs, they rallied from a three games to one deficit to stun the record-breaking Bruins in a huge first round upset.

Tkachuk’s fingerprints were all over that comeback series win. So, too, was Carter Verhaeghe, who scored the winner in sudden death to send the Cats to the second round. They got outstanding performances from a core that features Aleksander Barkov, Sam Reinhart, Sam Bennett, Brandon Montour, Aaron Ekblad, and Sergei Bobrovsky, who reclaimed his status as a top goalie.

The irony is that they wouldn’t have even made it without the heroics of Alex Lyon. He was the goalie who carried them into the final wildcard to edge out the Penguins and Sabres. Lyon was replaced at the right time by coach Paul Maurice. Bobrovsky turned back the clock to take the Panthers on a great run.

With key contributions from Anton Lundell, Gustav Forsling, Nick Cousins, and now departed Anthony Duclair, Radko Gudas, Marc Staal, and Eric Staal, the Panthers played like a team to reach their second Stanley Cup Final in franchise history. It was the commitment to playing stronger defensively under Maurice that allowed them to eliminate the Maple Leafs and sweep the Hurricanes to play for the Cup. They went through the three best teams to get there.

Unfortunately, the Panthers ran out of gas against the Golden Knights. Tkachuk and a few other players were banged up. It still was a memorable run. For once, the talent and depth showed for one of the league’s promising teams. What can they do for an encore?

Gone are Duclair, Gudas, Lyon, the Staal Brothers, and popular team leader Patric Hornqvist, who hung up the skates. GM Bill Zito brought in Evan Rodrigues to help offset the loss of Duclair, who became a cap casualty. They’ll miss Duclair’s speed and skill. But Rodrigues is a good skater with a strong shot. He can play power play and penalty kill. He should be a good fit in a secondary role.

Florida will have a different look on the back end. In are Niko Mikkola and Oliver Ekman-Larsson. Mikkola is a solid skating defensive defenseman who did a nice job for the Rangers. He can play second or third pair and penalty kill. Ekman-Larsson is there to play some power play. He isn’t what he once was. But on a low risk one-year deal, maybe they’ll catch lightning in a bottle. It’ll be interesting to see if he can cut it under the demanding Maurice.

The good news is that Montour headlines the defense. He’s blossomed into one of the game’s best offensive weapons from the blue line. His breakout season included some memorable nights last postseason. As explosive as he is, Aaron Ekblad remains the key to their success. He played through an oblique tear and broken foot during a strong playoff. He isn’t expected back until November. Montour also might not be ready for the start of the season.

Gustav Forsling will play important minutes for Maurice. He remains underappreciated. A smooth puck moving defenseman who can contribute offensively, Forsling is a good player who gets it done. He will be leaned on heavily early in 2023-24.

Josh Mahura quietly had a good season. Zito was wise enough to add some depth in Mike Reilly and Dmitry Kulikov. That’ll help until the big boys are fully healthy.

If Bobrovsky is the starter, then Spencer Knight should be the understudy. How will he recover from the off-ice issues that forced him to enter the league player assistance program last February? Hopefully, things are headed in the right direction. Former Duck Anthony Stolarz was signed to replace Lyon. He’s good insurance.

The supporting cast includes pest Ryan Lomberg, the underrated Eetu Luostarinen, and Cousins. Steven Lorentz, Kevin Stenlund, and Rasmus Asplund were brought in.

Analysis: It’s impossible not to love a core that features Tkachuk, Barkov, Verhaeghe, Reinhart, Bennett, Lundell, Montour, and Ekblad. Lundell should continue to improve as a versatile checking pivot. Bennett remains a glue guy who provides the nuts and bolts.

The Panthers are strong at center, boast scoring wings, and depth. The defense will be a question. How well will Mikkola and Ekman-Larsson fit in the Maurice system?

Bobrovsky must perform more consistently during the regular season. If Knight is all the way back, that should help lighten the load.

Maurice is a proven coach who seems to do best when the pressure is off. There will be higher expectations this time.

Prediction: As has been noted, the Panthers won’t sneak up on anyone. Opponents know what they’re capable of. They proved it last spring.

They’ll have a target on their backs. As long as Montour and Ekblad round into form, they should be formidable. Especially with Tkachuk proving he was worth it. He will continue to terrorize opponents with his tenacious style.

It’s hard not to like the Panthers competing with the Leafs for the Atlantic Division. They look like the best two teams. Of course, the Bruins and Lightning will have something to say about that. The Sabres are expected to challenge as well.

Pencil in the Panthers for between 45 to 50 wins and over 100 points. They should be a lock this time. From there, they have a chance to go far. It’ll be a tug of war once the divisional playoffs roll around.

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2023-24 Season Focus: Buffalo Sabres

Posted on September 5, 2023 by Derek

ATLANTIC DIVISION

Buffalo Sabres (5th)

2022-23 Record: 42-33-7 91 Pts

Missed the playoffs

Key Subtractions: Craig Anderson (retirement), Ilya Lyubushkin (traded to Ducks)

Key Additions: Erik Johnson, Connor Clifton

Overview: The Sabres nearly ended their playoff drought with a strong 2022-23 season that saw them finish with 91 points. They just missed out. The improvement thanks to star center Tage Thompson, along with Alex Tuch, Dylan Cozens, Jeff Skinner, Rasmus Dahlin, and Casey Mittlestadt, demonstrated that they’re very close to getting back to the postseason.

With both key pieces, Thompson and Cozens signed to long-term deals that pay each at least $7.1 million on average through 2030, GM Kevyn Adams has solidified a young nucleus that also includes Owen Power, Devon Levi, and eventually top prospect Jiri Kulich.

In re-signing well-respected veteran Kyle Okposo along with checking forward Tyson Jost, that should keep the locker room close-knit. When you have a young roster, it’s important to have some proven vets that can provide some leadership. They’ll play supporting roles.

Most notably, Adams addressed the blue line by adding proven vets, Erik Johnson and Connor Clifton. Johnson is a former Stanley Cup winner. He’s a smart player who provides solid defense and is good in the room. Clifton is a tough defenseman who should bring physicality to the back end. His no-nonsense style should be popular in Western New York.

The Sabres boast one of the game’s premier defenseman in Dahlin. Still just 23, the former top pick is coming off a career season that saw him supply consistent offense along with a mean streak. He was overlooked for the Norris, finishing eighth. He won’t be this season.

Power impressed in his rookie campaign to place third for the Calder. A big defenseman with size, skating, and skill, he should continue to improve in Year Two. Mattias Samuelsson plays a strong positional game. He will finish checks and block shots. The key is staying healthy. He’s a key cog on the blue line.

By adding Johnson and Clifton, that should help stabilize the defense. Henri Jokiharju won’t be asked to do as much. Jacob Bryson and Riley Stillman supply depth.

If goalie was an issue, perhaps Devon Levi can be the answer in the net. The 21-year-old netminder debuted to lots of excitement. He won five of his first seven starts, nearly carrying the Sabres into the playoffs. How will he handle his first full season?

With popular veteran Craig Anderson retiring, that leaves both Eric Comrie and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen to compete for the second spot. Neither were good enough last year. It can’t all be on Levi. They need to perform better.

Jordan Greenway should have a key role up front. A physical agitator, he brings size and strength to the roster. When Adams acquired him from Minnesota last season, it was with that in mind. He can be effective on the forecheck. Hopefully, he can add some secondary scoring, along with Okposo, Zemgus Girgensons, and dangerous shooter Victor Olofsson.

J.J. Peterka was overlooked as a rookie. Only 21, he has a chance to improve. It would be nice if Peyton Krebs was more consistent. He’s been a disappointment since coming over from Vegas. At least, they got Tuch in the Jack Eichel trade. He’s a power forward who finally came into his own in a career year. It’s all about staying on the ice.

If they can get Jack Quinn back by sometime next calendar year, that would be a bonus. He could become a good finisher. He will be out at least the first half due to Achilles surgery.

Analysis: Offense shouldn’t be a problem. Buffalo was amongst the best offenses last season. Can Thompson continue his upswing? If he does, 50 goals and 100 points are possible. They are counting on the big boys to perform.

Cozens isn’t only a good offensive center. But he’s also solid all-around. Coach Don Granato trusts him to play in all situations, including the penalty kill. He led the Sabres with two shorthanded goals. To take the next step as a two-way player, he must improve on face-offs. An area Buffalo needs to get better at.

There’s plenty to like about the defense. Dahlin could contend for the Norris while Power and Samuelsson continue to improve. Adding the necessary experience should help.

The only question is the goalie. Levi almost has to perform for this team to be in the hunt. It’ll be a lot of pressure and expectations.

The Sabres family lost legendary voice Rick Jeanneret. The recently retired play-by-play man spent half a century as one of the most exciting and best hockey broadcasters since the franchise’s second season. He passed away on August 17.

There’s no doubt that the team will honor him with a special RJ patch on their jersey. They’ll have a little extra incentive to reach the postseason.

Prediction: If they can improve defensively, that should go a long way to supporting Levi and either Comrie or Luukkonen. They can’t be left out to dry.

The Sabres should be one of the most exciting teams to watch. The high-end skill they boast should make them formidable.

Thus far, Granato has done a good job behind the bench. It really is all about the team taking that next big step. They’re kind of similar to where the Devils were before last year. It’s all about making the playoffs.

Buffalo will be competing with the Bruins, Senators, and Red Wings for the postseason. They should be able to win 45 games and have over 90 points. It could come down to the all-important regulation wins tiebreaker. If the goaltending holds up, they’ll finally return to the playoffs.

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2023-24 Season Focus: Toronto Maple Leafs

Posted on September 4, 2023 by Derek

ATLANTIC DIVISION

Toronto Maple Leafs (2nd)

2022-23 Record: 50-21-11 111 Pts

Eliminated in Second Round by Panthers

Key Subtractions: Michael Bunting (signed with Hurricanes), Ryan O’Reilly (signed with Predators), Noel Acciari (signed with Penguins), Alex Kerfoot (signed with Coyotes), Luke Schenn (signed with Predators), Erik Gustafsson (signed with Rangers), Justin Holl (signed with Red Wings), Zach Aston-Reese (unsigned)

Key Additions: Tyler Bertuzzi, Max Domi, John Klingberg, Ryan Reaves

Overview: After going nearly two decades without advancing past the first round, the Leafs finally exorcized some demons by eliminating the rival Lightning in a tightly contested six-game series. Although they prevailed to satisfy Leafs Nation, they had to come back in almost every game. Sudden death was on their side. So was the road where they went three-for-three in Tampa.

As big a series victory as that was, they suffered a disappointing second round defeat to the upset minded Panthers. Florida went 3-0 at Scotiabank Arena. That included taking Game Five in overtime to end the Leafs’ season.

It wasn’t memorable for the core stars. The quartet of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, John Tavares, and William Nylander combined for just three goals in the series. Neither Matthews nor first round hero Tavares had a goal. If they’re to finally make a deep run, the best players must perform on the big stage. They also need to win on home ice. They went a mind-numbing 1-5 at home.

The biggest change for the Leafs was former GM Kyle Dubas departing for Pittsburgh, where he took over as both Team President and GM. Replacing him is former Calgary GM Brad Treliving. He had a good off-season by signing both Tyler Bertuzzi and Max Domi to one-year contracts. Each should help bolster the scoring depth behind the Big Four. They will supply skill and grit to a lineup that needs it to be successful.

The Leafs did lose some quality players with Ryan O’Reilly, Noel Acciari, Michael Bunting, and Alex Kerfoot finding new homes. However, the hope is that the combination of Bertuzzi and Domi, along with promising youngster Matthew Knies, can more than make up for the departures.

Most importantly, Treliving was able to extend Matthews to a four-year deal worth an average cap hit of $13.25 million starting next year. He’s in the final year of a contract that pays him $11.64 million. They couldn’t afford to lose Matthews to free agency next summer. Only 25, the former Hart and Rocket Richard winner, is entering his prime.

With William Nylander in his final year of a contract that pays him just under seven million, it’ll be interesting to see what happens with the budding 27-year-old star. Nylander is content to play it out. Considering the team they have, the Leafs would be wise to take a similar approach. They want to win. It’s been long enough.

Aside from the main actors, there’s a strong supporting cast that features the likes of Sam Lafferty, Calle Jarnkrok, the aforementioned rookie Knies, and David Kampf. Adding veteran Ryan Reaves can only help on and off the ice. He won’t play every night. But the energy and toughness he provides should be popular.

The blue line only has one change. John Klingberg was brought in to provide offense. He still can be a factor on the power play. With ace Morgan Rielly anchoring the top unit, Klingberg should be a fixture on the second unit. He replaces Erik Gustafsson. They’re quite similar. Neither is known for their defense.

Rielly remains one of the top defensemen in the sport. He gets overlooked due to other big stars who have won the Norris. He plays a ton of minutes and remains one of the most important Leafs. Jake McCabe is signed for two more years. He’ll throw his weight around and keep opponents honest.

T.J. Brodie is a puck moving defenseman. Mark Giordano might be in his final season. He still can supply valuable minutes while adding some offense. Timothy Liljegren became a trusted player under coach Sheldon Keefe. He was recently extended. So. He’s not going anywhere.

Goaltending remains intriguing. Ilya Samsonov became the number one last season. However, injuries limited his effectiveness in the playoffs. Joseph Woll played well in relief. Maybe they should be asking if Woll is the solution in goal. Time shall tell.

Matt Murray was again plagued by injuries. He likely will be on LTIR. Who knows what his status will be.

Analysis: On paper, the Leafs have all the ingredients to go farther. They know the window could be closing due to Nylander’s uncertain status. The additions of Bertuzzi and Domi should strengthen their chances.

Depth shouldn’t be an issue. There’s enough high character guys that can provide secondary scoring.

The questions remain the same for this talented group. Can Matthews, Marner, Tavares, Nylander, and Rielly deliver when it counts? They’ve got help. Which goalie will be the one to step up? Can the defense hold up?

Prediction: With the Bruins likely to fall due to significant departures, the Leafs look like the class of the Atlantic Division. It’s hard to see the Lightning being able to stay with them. It could come down to the Panthers and Leafs.

I’m taking the Leafs to win at least 50 games and win the division. They should have even more pressure on them next postseason. This is a roster capable of reaching the Conference Finals. Maybe it’s finally the year they play for the Stanley Cup.

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2023-24 Season Focus: Tampa Bay Lightning

Posted on September 3, 2023 by Derek

ATLANTIC DIVISION

Tampa Bay Lightning (3rd)

2022-23 Record: 46-30-6 98 Pts

Eliminated in First Round by Maple Leafs

Key Subtractions: Alex Killorn (signed with Ducks), Ross Colton (traded to Avalanche), Pat Maroon (traded to Wild), Corey Perry (signed with Blackhawks), Ian Cole (signed with Canucks), Pierre-Edouard Bellemare (signed with Kraken), Brian Elliott (unsigned)

Key Additions: Conor Sheary, Josh Archibald, Luke Glendening, Connor Brown, Jonas Johansson, Calvin de Haan, Austin Watson (PTO)

Overview: Following a disappointing first round loss to the rival Maple Leafs, the Lightning again were forced to subtract key pieces from their two championship teams. Popular forward, Ross Colton was dealt to the Avalanche for a second round pick. They couldn’t afford to keep him. Gritty energizer Pat Maroon was sent to the Wild.

They also lost Corey Perry, who signed with the rebuilding Blackhawks. Ian Cole moved onto Vancouver. Pierre-Edouard Bellemare left for Seattle.

The biggest departure was playoff hero Alex Killorn leaving Tampa for Anaheim. They couldn’t make it work. Killorn received a big four-year contract to move West and try to help the Ducks. He was a trusted top six forward, who supplied scoring along with grit. He’ll be missed by fans.

It isn’t easy to keep a successful team together in the salary cap era. However, the Bolts still feature prominent stars in Victor Hedman, Nikita Kucherov, Brayden Point, Steven Stamkos, Andrei Vasilevskiy and emerging defenseman Mikhail Sergachev. Having such a strong nucleus should make them competitive again in 2023-24.

They made the wise decision to lock up Brandon Hagel to an eight-year extension worth $6.5 million per cap hit, starting in 2024-25. He’s coming off a career season where he proved he was worth what they gave up to acquire him from Chicago. Even if Taylor Raddysh turns into a solid NHL player, the Lightning won that trade.

They also made a smart commitment to two-way pivot Nick Paul. He signed for six years at an AAV of $3.15 million through 2029. Paul has a moderated no-trade clause, while Hagel’s NTC doesn’t kick in until 2026. Both will play key roles for the Lightning.

Sergachev got a much deserved raise for his breakout season. He signed long-term through 2031. His cap hit is $8.5 million. Starting in 2024-25, his NTC will kick in. Eventually, it shifts to a moderated NTC by 2026-27.

In making sure the younger core players are signed, the Lightning assured fans that their team should remain a playoff contender. However, it’ll still hinge on established stars Hedman, Kucherov, Point, Stamkos, and Vasilevskiy. Only Vasilevskiy and Point are under 30. Sergachev is just 25. That bodes well as Hedman starts to decline.

Tanner Jeannot must prove he was worth the ridiculous price Nashville asked for. He’s got that unique combination of skating, skill, and toughness. But he has to produce.

The Bolts added quality depth player, Conor Sheary. A former Stanley Cup winner who’s been successful with Pittsburgh and Washington, the undersized forward possesses good speed and smarts. He plays with energy and should be a good role player who coach Jon Cooper can use anywhere. Sheary can also kill penalties.

They also signed Josh Archibald. While he won’t blow anyone away, the veteran can fill a void on the fourth line. He likes to mix it up. By signing Austin Watson to a pro tryout (PTO), Tampa probably expects the physical forward to make the roster. He loves to finish checks and can chip in occasionally.

Luke Glendening is a fourth line player. Logan Brown was added for depth. He hasn’t much luck staying healthy.

Calvin de Haan replaces Cole as a depth piece for the blue line. If Erik Cernak can return healthy from a concussion, the Lightning defense should be okay. He’s always been a glue guy for them. Still just 26, he provides most of the grit. Think crunching hits, blocked shots, and strong defense. Every team needs a heart and soul player like that to be successful.

Cooper is counting on Nicklaus Perbix to play important minutes. He impressed with a strong rookie year. His development allowed them to bid adieu to Cal Foote. The Lightning also has veteran Zach Bogosian to step in when needed.

Philippe Myers and Haydn Fleury are third pair guys. So is de Haan.

When it comes down to the Lightning, nobody is more important than Vasilevskiy. He’s coming off a down year. Vasilevskiy still finished sixth for the Vezina. He’s durable and can be counted on to play 60 games. Now, 29, the franchise netminder remains crucial to team success. They need him.

Brian Elliott is out. Jonas Johansson is in. Elliott remains unsigned. Johansson is cheap, which fits in perfectly with what the Bolts like to do with their backup goalie. He hasn’t had much success. As long as he can get into 15 to 20 games and keep it competitive, Cooper won’t mind. As long as he can find enough rest for Vasilevskiy, who is a throwback, it should work out. There are no tandems to speak of here.

Analysis: On paper, the Lightning remains formidable. They boast one of the game’s best players in Kucherov. He somehow flies under the radar despite continuing to put up ridiculous numbers. That’s what happens when you play in the same era as Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

The Bolts are one of the few teams to boast two top defensemen who can compete for the Norris. They still have a proven scorer in Stamkos and a lights out two-way center in Point, who’s always been clutch. Then, you have Vasilevskiy.

If both Hagel and Paul continue to emerge, the Lightning should be a lock for the playoffs. They’ll need some help from some of the supporting cast.

Cooper remains one of the best coaches. He is very even keel. When things get tough, he knows what buttons to push. His honesty is refreshing. Communication shouldn’t be an issue.

Prediction: They should be able to win 45-plus games. It’ll be more competitive due to the teams chasing them. But I think 100 points and another postseason remain realistic. Once they get in, anything is possible.

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2023-24 Season Focus: Boston Bruins

Posted on September 2, 2023 by Derek

ATLANTIC DIVISION

Boston Bruins (1st)

2022-23 Record: 65-12-5 135 Pts

Eliminated in First Round by Panthers

Key Subtractions: Patrice Bergeron (retirement), David Krejci (retirement), Taylor Hall (traded to Blackhawks), Nick Foligno (traded to Blackhawks), Dmitry Orlov (signed with Hurricanes), Garnet Hathaway (signed with Flyers), Tyler Bertuzzi (signed with Maple Leafs), Connor Clifton (signed with Sabres)

Key Additions: James van Riemsdyk, Morgan Geekie, Milan Lucic, Kevin Shattenkirk, Jesper Boqvist

Overview: After a historic regular season that saw them set a new NHL record for most wins (65) and points (135), the Bruins crashed and burned out in a heartbreaking first round series loss to the Panthers. They blew a three games to one lead, falling in sudden death to the Cats on home ice.

It was an emotional scene with all-time Boston Bruin Patrice Bergeron waving goodbye to the crowd, while close friend Brad Marchand was reduced to tears. It proved to be the final game for both Bergeron and David Krejci. Each announced their retirements this summer.

With the organization preparing for the departure of their top two centers, they also were forced to trade Taylor Hall with Nick Foligno to the Blackhawks in a cap cutting move. Dmitry Orlov and Tyler Bertuzzi each left via free agency. So, too did Garnet Hathaway. Even tough third pair defenseman Connor Clifton departed.

That’s the cost of doing business in the salary cap world. The Bruins went all in on trying to win a Stanley Cup. Instead, they lost in crushing fashion to the Panthers, who made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals. In the playoffs, anything can happen. It’s too bad that was the end for Bergeron, who is one of the most popular Bruins in team history. The next stop is Toronto for Mister Selke.

With many key players leaving, that leaves the Bruins looking towards a few bargain basement additions to help the secondary scoring. They’re hoping James van Riemsdyk can stay healthy and still contribute 20-plus goals. He can play a top nine role. It might be asking a lot for him to play in the top six.

Morgan Geekie was signed as well. He proved capable of contributing with the Kraken. Maybe that move will pan out. Jesper Boqvist comes over from the Devils to supply a checking role. He’ll likely fill the void left by Tomas Nosek, who ironically signed with Jersey. It’s almost like a swap. Boqvist is younger. Maybe they think they can get more out of him. Similar to Pavel Zacha, who has big shoes to fill at center.

Both Zacha and Charlie Coyle are the new top two centers. They will be leaned on by Jack Adams winner Jim Montgomery. Both can play in all three zones, including power play and penalty kill. The latter is an area each excels at. Zacha will stay intact with fellow Czech countryman David Pastrnak. The premier power forward. He’s in his prime. A repeat of sixty goals and 100 points is expected.

Coyle should replace Bergeron and work with Marchand, who still has the unique combination of speed, skill, and grit. The Rat must stay healthy for the B’s to be successful. Jake DeBrusk continues to improve. Is this the year he hits 30 goals? He’s up for a new contract next summer.

Popular forward Milan Lucic returns to the city where he helped win a Cup. Obviously, he’s not the same player he once was. But “Looch,” as he’s affectionately known by fans, knows what his role will be. He plays a physical style and brings energy. A good teammate who understands what it means to be a Bruin, it’ll be interesting to see how his second stint goes.

Boston is looking for energizer Trent Frederic to continue to develop into a gritty player who outworks opponents. He is expected to center the third line. The former first round pick had a breakout season. Let’s see if he can follow it up.

Veteran Alex Chiasson is invited to training camp on a pro tryout. Maybe he can earn a job as a fourth line guy.

Although they lost Orlov to Carolina and Clifton to Buffalo, the Bruins still boast a strong blue line. Led by Charlie McAvoy, who’s one of the game’s best defensemen, they should be formidable. Hampus Lindholm is coming off a good season. As a top pair, they’re one of the best in the sport.

Matt Grzelcyk and Brandon Carlo remain key stalwarts who should play important minutes. Derek Forbort is a savvy veteran who blocks shots. Veteran Kevin Shattenkirk was brought in on a one-year deal. He’ll compete with Jakub Zboril for minutes as the sixth defenseman. Shattenkirk still can provide offense with his shot. Defensively, it’s no picnic. How will he fare playing in a more structured system?

Goalie shouldn’t be a problem. Rating Vezina winner Linus Ullmark had a memorable 2022-23. Unfortunately, he wasn’t 100 percent in the first round. It showed. Montgomery waited too long to go to Jeremy Swayman. Swayman remains the future in goal. Both netminders have a great relationship. They always do the cool postgame celebration after a win. Until proven otherwise, it’s probably the best goalie tandem in the league.

Analysis: Obviously, the Bruins won’t come close to a repeat of last year. However, it’s premature to write them off. They still boast elite players at key positions. Montgomery will be tasked with challenging them to prove the doubters wrong. They could still be a playoff team. They’re more proven than the Sabres, Senators, and Red Wings. All teams in the division who should be in playoff contention.

Prediction: Forty-five wins are still possible. But scoring could be an issue. They might have to win a lot of low-scoring games. They’re built for it. If the cutoff is 96 points, it’ll be close.

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